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14. make the most of your first rodeo
20.
how to make your house the “it� house
48.
surviving and thriving spring break 2015
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camp directory
2 . houston family magazine . march 2015
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contents
march twenty-fifteen
on the cover Ava Grace just turned 5 and loves all things girly! You can always find her at the dance studio or in her playroom with her baby dolls. Photographed for Houston Family Magazine by Yvette Michelle Portraits
14 fe ature s 14
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR FIRST RODEO Rodeo Do’s and Don’ts by Marye Audet
18
DOWN BY THE SEASIDE Living the 30A life by Dana Donovan
20
THE “IT” HOUSE Make your house the house where everyone wants to hang out compiled by Sara G. Stephens
24
FOOD TRUCK HEAVEN by Sara G. Stephens
4 . houston family magazine . march 2015
48
SURVIVING & THRIVING SPRING BREAK 2015 by Kim Davis Guerra
depa r tments 5 PUBLISHER’S NOTE
6
FAMILY FYI Facts and tidbits you need to know
8
FAMILY FINDS Must haves for the Rodeo
10
TALK TO THE DOC Cochlear implants 101 by Dr. Claudia Emery
12
FIVE TIPS TO MAKE YOURSELF HEALTHY, WEALTHY AND WISE by Jim Chapman
44
FAMILY TABLE Fresh fish finds on the coast by the editors of My Table
46
on the go 52
MARCH ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES
real l i fe g ui d e 70 HE SAID, SHE SAID A lesson in choices by Sam and Pam Middleton
I AM HOUSTON Elizabeth Irvine: healthy mother, healthy child by Tonya Kerr
resources 26
51
CLASSIFIEDS
CAMP DIRECTORY
69
BOOK BITES Recommendations from Blue Willow on books your kids will want to gobble up
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publisher’snote i love the rodeo
Maybe it’s the fact that I went to a lot of carnivals and fairs growing up. Maybe it’s the fan fair and all the energy it brings. Maybe it’s the fact that I-10 shuts down for the parade of horses and riders from all over coming together to make their way to town for the biggest Rodeo on the planet! Whatever it is, I am always happy to introduce new Houstonians to the HLSR. Check out this month’s article, Newcomer’s Guide to the Rodeofor all you need to know to this year’s event. If fried twinkles and calf roping do not come to mind for you this month, and you are focused more on Spring Break, then we have several good reads for you. In Living the 30A, discover the beauty that is Seaside, FL for a possible Spring Break destination. Not in the mood to go quite that far? If you are staying home, how about Making your house the ‘It House’’ and have the party come to your house! Or, in our Surviving & Thriving Spring Break Guide, discover great ideas for getting out & about with the kids . Last, if you have to work, check out the camp directory for Spring Break camps! Either way, there is something for all. Time passes so quickly. Whatever it is you decide to do this month, make sure you capture the moments and make memories with your family. Enjoy!
houston
family
PUBLISHER Kimberly Davis Guerra
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Karen Neely
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dana Donovan
ART DIRECTOR Patricia M. Young
MANAGING EDITOR Sara G. Stephens
PRODUCTION Gayle Wheeler-LeSueur, Graphic Designer Yvette Michelle Portraits Alisa Murray, Photographer
CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS Marye Audet Jim Chapman Dr. Claudia Emery Tonya Kerr My Table Magazine ADVERTISING SALES Tish Carabajal, Karen Craft Beverly Davis, Kiesha Upshaw
PRINTING RR Donnelley Contacts Us: 5131 Braesvalley, Houston, TX 77096 (P) 713.266.1885 (F) 713.266.1915 www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
Houston Family is published monthly by Red Head Publishing, LLC. Houston Family is distributed free of charge, one copy per reader. Only Houston Family authorized distributors may deliver or pick up the magazines. We reserve the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all submitted material. We cannot be responsible for the return of any submitted material. Houston Family is ©2015 by Red Head Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express permission is prohibited.
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march 2015 . houston family magazine . 5
familyfyi on the web. HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
news, events and entertainment
shop whole kids farmers market
online exclusives Leprechauns, Pots of Gold, and Clovers Have You Ever: An Invitation to Adventure Spring Break Swim Tips Spring Break Boredom Busters Mommy Motor Review: Ford Explorer
TEEN TAKE:
What Makes an “It” House 6 . houston family magazine . march 2015
You can stock your kitchen with fresh veggies and help students from nine Houston ISD schools learn how to grow produce and sell it by shopping at the Whole Kids Farmers Market at Whole Foods’ Montrose store, 701 Waugh Dr. (at West Dallas), from 10 a.m. -1 p.m. on Saturday, March 29. Dozens of students will be at the store to sell seasonal produce grown in their Urban Harvest-affiliate school gardens, as well as garden and craft products. All proceeds will be reinvested in the schools’ garden or culinary programs.
hisd to reveal school magnet assignments
applications sought for scholorship Life Happens will award over $200,000 in scholarship money, ranging from $5,000 – $15,000, to 28 deserving students. To be considered for a scholarship, applicants must submit a 500-word written essay or 3-minute video that describes how their lives have been affected, both emotionally and financially, by the death of a parent or guardian. Interested candidates must submit an application online at www.lifehappens.org/ scholarship. Applications will be accepted between now and March 3, 2015 at 4 pm Eastern Time.
HISD is in the final stages of processing nearly 50,000 applications in preparation for magnet notification day on Friday, March 28. All students who met the qualifications and December deadline will be offered spaces in the order assigned by a computer-generated lottery. Parents will be notified on March 28 by mail or email, depending on how they filed their applications. Parents must notify their magnet school of choice of their intention to enroll their child by Friday, April 11. The system will not allow a student to accept a spot in more than one school. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
get social with nasa! NASA has a Facebook page specifically for high school and college students. Updates are posted daily featuring competitions, internships and more. Join now at NASA Students at www.nasa.gov
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march 2015 . houston family magazine . 7
familyfinds the good stuff HLSR Official Pin Set Trading event pins is a long time tradition and fun for the whole family. The 2015 official HLSR pin set includes five specially designed pins in one set for $20 at www.hlsr.com.
Abetta Jr. Looper Practice Set Your little one will learn to rope like the pros with this Jr. Looper practice set. Set includes one toy steerhead (with stabilizing ground stakes) , one youth nylon rope and one knit practice glove. $46 www.cavenders.com
Corky’s Rodeo Snip Toe Rain Boots Corky’s original rubber boots feature a multi colored rodeo paisley print, a soft white lining, and a removable insole. $39.99 www.cavenders.com
Wrangler Onsie Shirts So many colors and styles to choose from in these fantastic western shirts for babies. The snaps make for easy changing while keeping them in style in any position. $29.99 www.pfiwestern.com
from walkin’ the walk to talkin’ the talk, these items will have you ready for a boot-scootin’ rodeo! Custom Word Art by Western Expressions This wife and mom of two incorporates her love for western-themed photography into a fun, interactive website where anyone can create a custom word or initials with a choice of photos, mats and frames. $60-$150 www.western-expressions.com
HOWDY Pins & Accessories by Look At Me Whether it’s the bolo tie/choker/necklace or the pin, this item is one of the hottest HLSR sellers this year!!! Enamel items start at $35 Swarovski items start at $75 www.lookatme.com or www.hlsr.com
Paper Bag Stick Horse Kiddos will love playing with their own homemade stick horse, and it is so easy to make. You’ll find thousands of fun crafts and lessons available for an annual membership fee of $23.95 www.daniellesplace.com 8 . houston family magazine . march 2015
Half Cowgirl/Princess T-Shirt This adorable t-shirt for little girls sums it up best: “Half Cowgirl, Half Princess, All Country.” Youth sizes from small to extra large. $16 And plenty of designs to choose from at www.cowgirlshine.com www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
talktothedoc health and wellness cochlear implants 101 by dr. claudia emery, senior audiologist and cochlear implant specialist at texas children’s hospital
cochlear implants are being used by people with severe and profound hearing loss who no longer benefit from hearing aids.
10 . houston family magazine . march 2015
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or people with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss (nerve deafness) in both ears, even the most advanced and powerful hearing aids may not help. In such cases, may be the answer. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, about two to three out of every 1,000 children in the United States are born deaf or hard-ofhearing. Nine out of every 10 children who are born deaf are born to parents who can hear. In a study completed in 2000, 12,816 children between the ages of 12 months and 6 years old were identified with severe to profound hearing loss. Only about 55 percent actually received a cochlear implant. In 2013, Texas Children’s
Hospital’s Cochlear Implant team performed 49 implant surgeries. In 2014, a total of 44 surgeries were completed. In order to bring a better understanding about cochlear implants, below is some general information for families. Cochlear implants consist of both an internal and an external component. The internal component is surgically inserted under the skin behind the ear to be implanted, and a narrow wire (the electrode array) is threaded into the cochlea. The external component, which looks somewhat like a behindthe-ear hearing aid, connects to the internal component via a magnetic disk also known as a coil or headpiece. According to the Food and Drug Administration, the guidelines for candidacy for a cochlear implant include children ages 12 to 24 months old with profound SNHL, children 2 to 17 years old with severe-to-profound SNHL and adults 18 years and up with moderate-to-profound SNHL. All ages must demonstrate limited-to-no-benefit from traditional hearing aid use in both ears. Although the range for candidacy for a cochlear implant is vast, there is not a “most common age,” though the earlier a child is implanted the better outcomes he or she will have. The FDA guidelines allow hospitals to implant as young as 12 months. Texas Children’s has implanted as young as 8 months of age, but only for medical reasons. In order to become a candidate for a cochlear implant, patients must undergo a series of medical and audiological
evaluations. Texas Children’s offers a multidisciplinary team approach to cochlear implantation. The team consists of the following disciplines: audiology, speech language and learning, ophthalmology, neuropsychology, otology, genetics, and other disciplines as indicated by the surgeon, such as cardiology. Once the child has gone through the team assessments, a team decision will be made whether to implant the child or not. One of the most common questions doctors asked is how long the implant is supposed to last. Although the surgically implanted device is meant to last a lifetime, there have been some cases in which the device needed to be surgically replaced. Because the technology of the external processing system continues to evolve, at some point in time, the internal technology may not be compatible with the external technology. If this occurs, further medical intervention may be needed. The surgery lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, and the recovery period can be between 1 to 4 days, depending on the child. Following surgery, the child will be seen two weeks later to follow-up with the surgeon to evaluate the surgery site. Approximately 188,000 people worldwide have received cochlear implants. In the United States, roughly 41,500 adults and 25,500 children have received them.
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
familyfinance money matters five tips to make yourself healthy, wealthy and wise by jim chapman, wells fargo institutional retirement & trust managing director you should be saving for your future. Start young and you can put the power of compounding on your side. Your money will grow faster over time as your earnings produce their own earnings. With the price of oil dropping, put the money you save into a retirement account.
Another helpful tool is the Social Security Claiming Guide from the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College. The guide can help you understand your options and when the best time might be to start collecting your Social Security benefit.
Tip 2: Prepare and prevent
Tip 4: Insure you have a better future
When planning for a healthy future, preparation and prevention play a key role. Preparation means saving for retirement and making sure you have appropriate insurance. Prevention means having routine tests, screenings, and health exams to catch any problems before they become serious and expensive health conditions. Tip 3: Understand your retirement benefits
it’s time for a first-quarter review of your finances, and your health. not where you need to be? try these tips to get back on track.
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ow that the New Year is into full swing, and tax time is around the corner, you may be taking stock in those resolutions you made. Common resolutions to exercise and lose weight might come to mind first. But your health and wealth go hand in hand--now and when you retire. To make sure you are doing everything you can today to plan for a better tomorrow, consider these tips for making yourself healthy, wealthy, and wise. Tip 1: Save as much as you can, as soon as you can
No matter what your age, 12 . houston family magazine . march 2015
Learn as much as you can about your retirement savings plan. Donít miss out on the company match your employer offers, and AVOID taking loans and withdrawals that can reduce the money youíll have available in retirement. If you have a pension plan, find out about projected benefit levels at various retirement ages and under various distribution options. Also be sure to review your personal Social Security statement that is available online at socialsecurity.gov/myaccount. The statement is an easy-to-read record of your earnings and a summary of the estimated Social Security benefits you may receive as a result of those earnings.
Make sure you have the insurance you need to protect your health and financial future before and after you retire. As you approach retirement, learn everything you can about Medicare, supplemental health policies, and long-term care insurance. While you donít want to waste money by having too much insurance, you also need to be careful you arenít leaving yourself exposed to financial catastrophes. Tip 5: All things in moderation
Moderation (and diversification) is good advice for many aspects of your life. Your investments should be appropriately diversified (not too risky, not too conservative, and typically not all in one basket). To determine an asset allocation strategy thatís right for you, take the interactive risk tolerance quiz by visiting wellsfargo.com/riskquiz. Your diet should be diversified, too. Try to include all the food groups in your daily menu. Even with exercise, try to include weight training, aerobic workouts, and simply incorporating more activity into your daily routine. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
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make the most of your first houston livestock show and rodeo by marye audet
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o matter how old you are there is nothing more exciting than your first rodeo. There’s something to see and do nearly everywhere you look, plenty of action, and lots of old-fashioned fun. If you’re expecting to spend a couple of hours watching guys in hats ride livestock of various sorts you are in for a surprise. The rodeo is always the first three weeks of March. For 2015 the rodeo dates are March 3 through 22.
History of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
The first Houston Stock Show and Livestock Exposition began in January 1931 and was 14 . houston family magazine . march 2015
focused on livestock. It wasn’t until 1942 that the first entertainer took to the stage, a man by the name of Gene Autry. The HLSR has been an important part of the Houston community since its inception. Since the beginning it has enhanced the lives of thousands of young people through over 375 million dollars committed to scholarships, as well as its annual commitment of $100,000 to Texas colleges to support research. You can get more information on scholarships by visiting http://www. rodeohouston.com/Scholarships/ ApplyforScholarships.aspx. If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer call the membership office at 832-667-1073.
Here are some tips for you first timers to get the most out of the 2015 Houston Rodeo. Rodeo 101
Here are some top tips from veteran rodeo fans. • Keep a packet of baby wipes and hand sanitizer in your bag whether you have a baby or not. There are a lot of ways to get messy. • Funnel cakes as big as your face—enough said. • Be sure to ride on the Western Hemisphere’s largest portable Ferris Wheel. Best view ever! • Deep fried pecan pie should be on every Texan’s list of can’t miss foods. • It can take up to two hours to get parked and get your ticket,
even if you’ve paid for it and are just picking it up. Be sure to plan for long waits and get there early. • The Yellow Lot (OST1) located at 2103 South Braeswood is the most convenient public parking area to the rodeo. • Visit the livestock barns, but keep in mind that the animals are often tense because of the unaccustomed activity. Don’t stick fingers into stalls or try to pet or feed the animals unless the owner gives his permission. • Bring along some eye drops and Benadryl if you have a child that is sensitive to allergens. Cow or horse dander can be just as troublesome as cat or dog dander to someone with allergies. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
something from the stroller. • Not all of the family bathrooms have changing stations. Be prepared for that possibility and bring a changing pad along. • If you have a child that startles easily or has issues with loud noises bring headphones and load soothing music on your smartphone in case you need to drown out some of the noise. • Choose a very lightweight stroller if possible. If you’ll be using public transportation it can be a huge hassle to wrestle a stroller on and off. A light umbrella stroller is much easier to deal with. First Things First—Schedule and Tickets
The first thing that you are going to want to do is get tickets. It’s not as easy as it sounds because there are a variety of concerts and special activities scheduled for certain days. Look over the schedule carefully so that you can see the things that interest you most whether it’s Tim McGraw or the Mutton Bustin’ Contest. Here’s the website where all of this information is available. http://www.rodeohouston.com/ Portals/0/Downloads/AboutUs/2015/2015_DailySchedule. pdf You’ll also find maps, parking information, and just about anything else you might need. • There are special seats for visually or hearing impaired rodeo guests. They are sold on a first come first serve basis, so contact the ticket office at 832-667-1080 if this is something you’ll need. • When you first enter the arena there will be some vendors. Resist the urge to buy because there are many more vendors in Reliant Center. • Young children will need a stroller—even if they are 4 or 5 and have mastered walking. If you don’t have a stroller youíll be carrying a child at some point. • You’ll have to check your stroller in the stadium so be sure to take an extra diaper, bottle, and pacifier with you. It’s a hassle to have to run out to get www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
Online You can buy your tickets online at rodeohouston.com. Only purchase tickets from a Show-authorized ticket seller (AXS online, at BBVA Compass Stadium or NRG Stadium along with a phone option), rather than buying from a ticket broker. By Phone You can purchase your tickets by phone at 888 596 4201 In Person You can also get your tickets to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in person at either of these addresses: BBVA Compass Stadium Box Office 2200 Texas Ave, Houston 77003
“While boots are always appropriate, don’t wear any that are not well broken in.” 9 AM to 5 PM NRG Park Box Office South End NRG Stadium, Westridge Entrance Monday through Friday 9 AM to 5 Pm, Saturday 10 AM to 2 PM Ticket prices vary depending on the shows that you want to see and the seats that you want to get. Children under the age of two are free. Season passes are available—and they’re a great idea if there are several things that you want to see on different days. If you happen to lose your ticket call the park and your ticket will be voided and another one issued to you. Parking
There’s plenty of public parking but traffic is going to be crazy ñ crazier than usual and it’s expensive. For $30 you’ll get a parking pass and find yourself walking about a block, if you donít have the parking pass you pay less ($12) but youíll have to walk up to five blocks. Consider parking in Hermann Park or the Museum District and
using the light rail or finding the Park-N-Ride near you and taking a bus. You’ll pay $5 each way, you wonít have to worry about parking, and youíll be let off right at the gate. Taxis are another option, especially if you plan to enjoy a few beers. The App for Your Phone
One must have item that you’ll want is the free app for your phone. It is like having the information booth at your fingertips! • Parking information and availability. • Friend finder • Maps • Show Schedule • Shopping and dining information including reviews • Concert dates and times including ticket information • Information about the athletes, scores, etc. • Rodeo social media • Camera with customized frames You’ll find the app online at https://www.rodeohouston.com/ GuestServices/MobileApp.aspx What to Wear
You are going to be doing a lot of walking so the main thing is to wear comfortable shoes ñ and a pair that you don’t mind getting dirty. Rodeos are lots of fun but, they are not the cleanest environments in the world. While boots are always appropriate, don’t wear any that are not well broken in. Keep in mind that the weather in Houston in March can be problematic. It could be chilly in the morning, then heat up in the afternoon. While average temperatures range from the 50s to the 70s you could find yourself sweating in an unseasonable 85 degrees or shivering in the midst of an unexpected cold front. Dress everyone in layers so that you can adjust your clothing as the temperature changes. First Aid
There are three first aid stations available should you need them. They are staffed by professional medical personnel march 2015 . houston family magazine . 15
rodeo
“Make the most of your Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo experience by planning ahead of time.” and equipped to handle most medical emergencies. • NRG Center Room 109and Hall C Lobby • Just outside the front of NRG Arena and inside the main doors facing the carnival • Southeast entrance of NRG Stadium Must See and Do
There is so much to do that it can be overwhelming. Here are some activities that you definitely want on your to do list. • The Friday before the rodeo is known as Go Texan Day. Everyone is encouraged to wear his or her jeans, boots, and hats—a tradition started in the 1950s. • This is the biggest livestock show in the world. Take the time to walk the kids through the barns and look at the animals • Mutton Bustin’ is a lot of fun to watch, as well as participate in, for kids. It costs $15 and your child must be between the ages of 5 and 6 on March 3, 2015. He or she must also not weigh more than 55 pounds. Sign up is first come, first served basis in the Mutton Bustin’ Arena in Kids’ Country. It is a must see! • If you want an easy way to discuss the birds and the bees with your kids, stroll over to the Capital One AgVenture birthing center where you may be able to witness calves, lambs, chicks, and other animals being born. • Shop, y’all. You’ll find everything you expect and many things that you don’t at the Reliant Center. Be sure to have time to browse. • Think of this as the State Fair in springtime as far as food goes. Corny dogs, fried Oreos, it’s all here and you don’t want to miss it. 16 . houston family magazine . march 2015
• The carnival runs from 4 PM to midnight on weekdays and 10 AM to 1 AM on weekends. There is a ride for kids of all ages or game booths to win your honey a prize! • Channel your urban cowboy and ride a mechanical bull. From 6 PM to midnight you can dance with your sweetheart at the Reliant Astrodome. Don’ts
There aren’t many rules, but here are some that you need to be aware of before you go. • No outside food or beverage unless it’s a medical necessity • No video recorders • No professional camera equipment or lenses over 12-inches long • No laser pointers • No backpacks, large bags (11-inches by 17-inches) or sealed bags (purses and diaper bags are permissible but subject to search) • No animals other than service animals • No obscene, indecent, or offensive clothing as determined by Reliant Park • No artificial scents such as cologne, aftershave, hairspray, etc. • No smoking Make Memories
That first rodeo is a never to be forgotten experience. Make the most of your Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo visit by preparing ahead of time, planning for your comfort, and checking the schedule so that you see those things that are most important to you. Take lots of pictures, try as many new foods as possible, and buy a bottle of Pepto Bismol on the way home. If you are like most people your first rodeo experience won’t be your last. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
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when I-10 beckons you to hop in your car and travel to parts unknown, head east to the charming serenity of florida’s 30A.
down by the seaside by dana donovan
18 . houston family magazine . march 2015
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
living the 30A life there’s something for everyone in this picturesque, florida beach community. travel is easy, the view is breathtaking, and the price is right--the perfect vacation spot for houstonians.
T
raveling to Seaside, Florida is like traveling back in time to a place when life was simple and moved a little slower. Best known as the backdrop of the Jim Carrey movie The Truman Show, the master-planned community is
full of pastel colored houses with white picket fences along a stretch of white, sand beach with beautiful emerald green water. To be fair, all of the beaches along 30A running from Rosemary Beach to Miramar are fabulous. Each one has its own unique look and feel. For all of Seaside’s elegance and charm, families take center stage.
travel cheat sheet Getting There Fly into Destin or Panama City, or take the approximately 10-hour trek down I10 East. I like driving because I’m able to load the car with supplies needed for the week. You can even break the trip up with an over-night stay in New Orleans. Accommodations Renting a house in Seaside can get expensive. One week rentals will vary based on location and size. Look for rates to start at about $2,000, with many options in the $3,000-$4,000 range. We recommend booking at least 3 months in advance. One way to save money is to stay in neighboring Seagrove. The rental rates are less expensive, but the trade-off will be the distance from Seaside city center. Cottage Rental Agency Seaside 850-231-2222 www.cottagerentalagency.com GRS Beach Rentals 1-800-537-5387 www.garrettrealty.com
Seaside was the brainchild of Robert Davis. In 1978, after inheriting 80 acres from his grandfather, Robert set out to create a town tied by a common sense of community. Over 30 years later, everywhere you look, you can see his dream has become a reality. Standing out in Robert’s vision are the many pavilions that dot the landscape along the beach. Each pavilion is different and was designed to entice beach goers to play in the waves and enjoy the sun and the sand. They also stand as a beacon to find your way back home after a long day on the beach. If the beach is the soul of Seaside, the city center is its heart. Restaurants and shops surround the centrally located outdoor stage with nightly entertainment. Behind the stage, Food Truck Alley runs parallel with 30A and creates an almost festival-like atmosphere whether it’s a Tuesday or a Saturday night. Through it all, kids roam freely though out the town square riding bikes and eating snow cones. My favorite part of Seaside is that there is something for everyone. Be lazy or be active, spend your day shopping or spend a day driving to the other beaches along 30A. Eat lunch at one of the many food trucks then have a nice dinner looking out over the water at Bud & Alley’s. There truly is something for everyone. Just
Vacation Rentals by Owner www.vrbo.com Places to Eat: I love Food Truck Alley! I could have eaten every meal at The Meltdown on 30A. The Brie and Bacon on Cranberry Walnut Bread and the Muenster Mushroom Melt are to die for amazing. Try to pull yourself away from the gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches to try The Great Southern Cafe and Bud & Alley’s. Reservations are recommended for both. Also, youíll want to add $20 per kid per day to your budget for Frostbites. I know you are saying to yourself, “Really? Twenty dollars a day for snow cones?” Yes, take my word for it. You’ll easily spend $20 a day at Frostbites. Bud & Alley’s 850-231-5900 www.budandalleys.com Reservations recommended
The Great Southern Cafe 850-231-7327 www.thegreatsoutherncafe.com Reservations recommended The Meltdown on 30A www.meltdownon30a.com Frostbites 252-452-3013 Bike Rentals: Besides on 30A, there is very little traffic in Seaside. I highly recommend renting bikes for the kids. They’ll love riding around Seaside as well as exploring neighboring beaches like Watercolor. Bike rentals start at $15 per day and include a helmet, basket and lock. Seaside Transit Authority Bike Rentals 850-231-0035 seasidetransitauthority.com Chair, Umbrella and Kayak Rentals: Rates vary based on the number of chairs and umbrellas and the number of days. I’m not going to lie, it’s expensive. On the flip side, it’s really nice to have your chairs and umbrella waiting for you each day as you head down to the beach. Cabana Man 850-231-5046 www.cabanaman.com Grocery Stores: Modica Market is located in the main square in Seaside. It’s a small market and can be a little pricey. I recommend you make the 5-minute drive to Publix. You’ll find a much bigger selection and lower prices. Modica Market 109 Seaside Central Square 850-231-1214 Publix Super Market 110 Watercolor Way Santa Rosa Beach 850-534-4565
slow down, breathe in the salt air and enjoy the 30A life. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
march 2015 . houston family magazine . 19
feature is lots of fun. Keep plenty of bikes, scooter, and skate boards around, and maybe set up some jumps with plywood and cement blocks in the yard. Get some pipes and set up obstacles. Having a swimming pool or a lake nearby is a bonus for sure. For indoor play keep on hand some classic board games, such as Sorry, Scrabble, and Monopoly are great classics to have on hand, along with a deck or two of playing cards. Baskets filled with matchbox cars and accessories or baby dolls and clothes/accessories are great too. Having a game room with real sized pool table, foosball table, air hockey, and/or ping pong table is great for teens. --Monique Prince, MSW Parenting Coach 2. Offer a “Hangout Package.”
12 tips for making your house the “it” house compiled by sara g. stephens We asked the experts, from Houston moms to parenting coaches to interior decorators, how parents can make their house the “it house,” where their kids, their kids’ friends and neighbors want to hang out. Here’s what they had to say.
20 . houston family magazine . march 2015
1. Provide for activities that are relationship-centered.
Have a lot of interactive activities in which everyone is playing with each other. Such activities build relationships and creates histories. Specific activities depend on budget, space and kids’ ages. For example, for outdoors, a sand pile with buckets, shovels, plastic containers, and castle makers can keep children entertained for hours. Simple ball games like football, kick ball, volleyball, and soccer can be played with a large number of children of a variety of ages in a pretty organized way for a long time. Jump rope, double-dutch jump rope, hopscotch, marbles, and 4-square are fun and easy. A swing set is loved by children of all ages, or just a swing or hammock hanging from a tree in the yard. Also, having a great climbing tree and/or tree fort
We developed our teen “Hangout Package,” which we display on a chalkboard in the kitchen. The hangout package is our offer to the kids: Anytime they have friends over to the house, we’ll pay for one pizza, six sodas, all the popcorn they can eat and one movie rental. This was the big trick that really got the kids hanging out at our house. They really didn’t abuse the offer and have only used it a few times, but it gave the kids the motivation to start inviting their friends over. Once they all started hanging out here we didnít really need to keep it up. They got to know this was a cool place to hangout. --Beth, a working mom who home-schooled 2 boys 3. Please Feed the Bears.
Depending on when they are here, sometimes we just order pizzas, and we usually have snacks on hand--drinks and chips type of thing. And for sleepovers we usually do a big breakfast for them as well--as in pancakes, bacon, sausage, muffins and those types of things. --Michelle Morton, mom to three boys ages 19, 15 and 11 4. Present a home, not a museum.
No kid is going to feel comfortable www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
in a house where everything is fragile, valuable and, therefore, off limits. I make it point to stay on top of all the latest gadgets and gizmos that help me keep up the fun without running down my home. I recently discovered a waterproof, Bluetooth speaker from Exogear that’s perfect for having around the swimming pool. You can literally toss their Ecostone speaker into the water, with no damage whatsoever. It’s light, rugged and affordable ($149)—a godsend at pool parties. Also, it used to be that when my son’s friends wanted to paint indoors, I would spread tarps all over the floor, then anxiously lord over the easels to wipe the occasional splatter. This did not exactly inspire creativity. I’ve since replaced the tarp and the easels with a few Crayola iMarkers, digital styluses that let me rest easy knowing my walls, floors and furniture aren’t being used as canvases. I bought my iMarkers for $29.99 at griffintechnology.com. --Tracey Timpanaro, Katy mom
5. Keep up the Lawn.
During my childhood, my friends and I liked playing pickup football and baseball games. My house was the place to hang out because we had a huge green yard. Simple efforts, like aeration and reseeding once a year and fertilizing 3-4 times annually will work wonders. --Alex Birkett, LawnStarter, www.lawnstarter.com 6. Keep Things Orderly.
Be sure to greet each friend as he or she enters your home. You want to be welcoming, but not over-eager. This helps set the tone that it is your house and you are in charge, while also modeling good manners. This also helps you learn the names and personalities of your child’s friends. I discuss our house rules with my child before their friends arrive. I also talk through and sometimes roleplay how they can handle a situation where a friend is breaking our house rules. I don’t plan activities for my child, but I do help them brainwww.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
storm activities they can do when their friends are over. This helps minimize the “bored” kids getting into trouble. -- Susan Santoro, Organized 31, organized31.com 6. Be thoughtful about design.
There are a few spaces that I do make extra special for my children to want to spend time in, more so than their friends’ homes and other places outside ours. My youngest daughter’s room is colorful, extremely playful, very bold—as is with the rest of our home—and I keep all her dress-up gear there. She has her own bathroom with a tub so all the wet mess stays in one area. I also keep a small TV and a child chaise in her room where she and her friends can hangout while us grownups stay in the main areas. I’m a big believer in losing formal spaces and opening up rooms to create large entertaining areas. Splurge on a fantastic sofa. Paint one of the walls with chalkboard paint to add depth without sacrificing refined style. Let natural light in. And don’t be afraid to be eccentric and use color. --Lorena Gaxiola, lorenagaxiola.com 7. Show your character.
The home is where the heart is, and it is important to make sure that your home can make family and loved ones feel welcome. Allowing an open space incorporated with the warmth of the family’s style shows not only how beautiful a home can be, but also who lives there. If you have kids, the design of a home is important, because as children grow up they are influenced by what is around them. A calming environment can encourage healthy development. --Kelly Amen, KGA Designs 9. Make the space fun.
Have a space like a game room with easily accessible options for entertainment. Have a theme, movie posters or fun colors on the wall. Make it the cool place to be. You don’t have to have a march 2015 . houston family magazine . 21
it house sound proof room, but nobody likes to hang out in a space where you have to be quiet. --Cory Cryer, Sunburst Shutters Houston, sunbursthouston.com 10. Keep it clean and organized.
Organize both your inside and outside toys and games in clear, easy-to-identify containers on visible shelves. It gives kids the perception that you have a lot more fun things to do when they can clearly see all the options instead of them being all piled up and hidden in a bin or closet. It also makes it easier to clean up after the visit is over. Hire a company to keep your home clean. You will be more willing to say yes to last minute visitors if you are never embarrassed by the condition of your home. Having the reputation as being “the flexible family” that is always up for guests will make everyone feel more comfortable approaching you for both pre-planned and impromptu get-togethers. Have a welcoming/warm attitude: One of the most important parts of hospitality is the mental attitude. Kids want to be a part of a friendly, welcoming environment and not feel invasive when they are at someone else’s house. --Cindy Pratt, Owner, MaidPro League City maidpro.com/league-city 11. Consider the “cool” factor
Techie touches here and there add up to a huge “wow” effect that keeps friends talking and coming back to the coolest house on the block. Install touch-free faucets like Sensate model K72218, P-chrome with black accents. Replace your light bulbs with 2700K color LED bulbs-much cooler in the summer, especially in the kitchen and bath. Buy them at a lighting store. The ones at the box stores are poor quality and can vary in color and brightness. They use much less power, look like the 22 . houston family magazine . march 2015
old incandescent bulbs, and pay for themselves in 2 years. If you have a plain, blah concrete porch, consider topping it with some beautiful slate or a non-slip, stone-look tile. Less expensive than you might think. Add LED ribbon lights in the “toe-kick” of your kitchen and bath cabinets for a very cool effect. Tech idea: Buy a “Chromecast” device ($30-$35 at Best Buy or online) to plug into the side of your TV. Then you can put anything that shows up on a tab on your phone or tablet on your TV easily. Cool technology for cheap! --Dan Bawden, President, Legal Eagle Contractors, Co. 12. Create trendy spaces.
For big kids - Many parents want to attract their kids to come home over breaks and spend time with them. No longer is just doing their laundry and taking them to dinner going to suffice. We have found that proximity to the inner city and nightlife is important to this demographic. Many empty-nesters are following the trend of selling their suburban homes and moving into smaller, trendier infill homes that provide modern amenities, such as a pool with outdoor living space that allows both the parents and children to entertain. The outdoor spaces typically include multiple televisions, fire pits, outdoor kitchens, hot tubs and pools. For small kids - While the game room remains a popular option, the ability to take the interior design of that room and incorporate “cool” kid spaces is a growing trend. Custom built-in bunk beds have become a staple for On Point Custom Homes. This feature creates an awesome sleeping space and hideouts for kids in the game rooms. This room becomes a place where children can play with their friends, snuggle up with a good book or watch a movie on the big screen television. -- John Leggett, CEO, On Point Custom Homes www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
feature
F
oodie Families take note: The 5th Annual Haute Wheels—THE Food Truck Festival--is set for March 21-22, 2015. Benefitting the Houston Community College Foundation, this two-day festival will feature the largest gathering of food trucks in Houston—more than 35 trucks (8 of which are brand NEW); the H-E-B Beer and Wine Garden; street entertainment; a vendor village; interactive activities; and fun for all. Fellow foodies will be enjoying the latest food truck culinary experiences and flavors as they sample 35 delicious food trucks all in one convenient location. Haute Wheels organizers recommend you plan your outing in advance. “The best strategy is to eat family style with dishes from a variety of trucks,” advises an event press release. “Most trucks will also serve a sample portion and streamline their menus so Haute Wheels patrons can sample a variety of food. A wide variety of culinary creations, including gluten-free and vegan menus are offered.” Event trucks and menus can be seen, and tickets can be purchased at www.haute wheelshouston.com. To start “stirring the pot” (pun intended), we took to Facebook and asked HFM readers to tell us about their favorite Houston food trucks. People who posted were entered into a drawing to win one of five 4-pack of tickets (valued at $64 each pack) to Haute Wheels Food Truck Festival. Congratulations to the winning Facebook respondents: Samantha Bowers, Alan Bellinger, Doug Green, Jennifer Battle, and Craig Cox. Thanks for your contributions, and enjoy the festival! Furthermore, we congratulate the following mobile eateries, who got the most Facebook mentions as the best food truck in Houston:
24 . houston family magazine . march 2015
Food Truck Heaven!
Bernies Burger Bus Location: Follow on Facebook for locations and hours. Website: http://www.bernies burgerbus.com Twitter: #BerniesBurgers 100% made-from-scratch gourmet burgers and hand-cut fries are served in a playfully school-themed eatery with a large patio. All condiments are homemade, signature blends of house ground Angus beef and locally baked buns. The Waffle Bus Location: Follow on Facebook for locations and hours. Website: www.thewafflebus.com Facebook: thewafflebus Serves sweet and savory gourmet waffles sandwiches all over the Houston area. Chicken and waffles, waffle burgers, Nutella and banana waffles, and more! Won My Table Magazine Houston Culinary Awards 2014.
BY SARA G. STEPHENS
When you’re a city as cool as Houston, you offer the best food... and then you serve it up on wheels! Spring/The Woodands Area
Corkscrew BBQ Location: 24930 Budde Road in Spring Website: www.corkscrewbbq.com Backyard BBQ atmosphere. Be quick–they usually sell out before the day is over. Their pulled pork tacos are amazing! Houston Area/Inner Loop
Oh My Gogi! BBQ Location: Rice University, 5555 Morningside Dr., Houston.
Follow on Facebook for traveling locations and hours. Facebook page: www.facebook. com/OhMyGogi/info Oh My Gogi! BBQ serves Korean BBQ/Mexican Fusion. They combine Korean BBQ meat and tofu marinades, combined with favorite Mexican street foods. All marinades and salsas are homemade and fresh. The owner and the people who work it are great and are always a pleasure to talk to!
Gastro Punk Location: Follow on Facebook for locations and hours. Facebook: GastroPunk1 Street food with Texas attitude! Their menu boasts many pub favorites with a gourmet twist. Their most popular items are their Truffle Mac-n-Cheese Balls, Ahi Tuna Burger and Short Rib Grilled Cheese. The Modular Location: Follow on Facebook for locations and hours. Facebook: www.facebook.com/ pages/The-modular/ 112541498836694 High-end, chef-driven, creative food at probably half of what you would pay in a regular restaurant. It has a variety of food favorites from ramen to tacos to lobster risotto. Koagie Hots Location: Check their website and follow on Facebook for locations and hours. Website: www.koagiehots.com Facebook: KoagieHots Korean influenced food truck serving cheesesteaks with a Korean twist, hot dogs and much more! www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
Staff Faves
Y
ou didnít think we’d let you have all the fun, now did you? Here are some Houston food truck deemed favorites by various HFM staffers. Friohana (formerly Texas Blizzard) Location: 2706 White Oak Dr, Website: texasblizzard.com ìIt just doesn’t get any better than a delicious shaved ice jammed pack with flavor on a hot & humid day in Houston. Gita & Richard in the truck love what they do and you can tell in their mountains of shaved ice they serve up like strawberry/basil, mojito grape, spearmint, and all the other classics!” --Tish Petty, HFM Advertising Sales
Golden Grill Location: Follow on Facebook for location and hours Website: http://www. goldengrillhtx.com/ Twitter: #goldengrillhtx “My all-time fave was a sandwich that they had at FunFest last year that had a fried egg and bacon jam-couldn’t get any better...until I had their sandwich with Gouda and bacon jam! The sandwiches are big enough for my son (who has a bottomless pit for a stomach) to actually share with me, which is saying a lot.” --Karen “Cookie” Neely, Distribution Manager Coreanos Location: Go to website for location and hours Website: www.coreanotx.com Facebook: CoreanosHouston Twitter: #coreanoshtx “Coreanos is a fusion between Korean BBQ and Mexican. Try the Three Wise Fries, which are fries topped with beef short ribs, chicken and pork. They are amazing!” --Dana Donovan, Editor-in-chief and Co-owner
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
march 2015 . houston family magazine . 25
camp directory 2012
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
CAMP
DIRECTORY
How will you know which camp is the best fit for your child? There are a number of factors to consider, including cost, distance, session lengths and hours, staff expertise and ratio to campers, age range, facilities and philosophy. Among the most important questions to ask, however, are whether the camp will have activities that appeal to your child, and how comfortable you both are with the camp environment. When it’s the right one, kids have a great time and come home with many happy memories. Check out our summer camp directory for a comprehensive guide to camps available here in Houston, as well as throughout Texas and the nation. Alley Theatre 615 Texas Ave, Houston, TX 77002 713-315-5424 www.alleytheatre.org/education
Alliance Fencing Academy 1212A Cedar Post Lane, Houston 27326 Robinson Road, Conroe 713-410-6655 www.alliance-fencing-academy.com
American Robotics Academy Greater Houston area including Katy, Sugar Land, Bellaire, Kingwood and The Woodlands, 281-599-7626 www.roboticsacademy.com
Arctic Camp International bodø Norway +4740606164 www.arctic-camp.com
Artist Boat 409-770-0722 Galveston, Texas www.artistboat.org
Aussie Summer Camps Queensland, Australia +61(0)455500849 www.aussiesummercamps.com
B3 WOW Camps Memorial West Community Clubhouse & Gleannloch Farms Clubhouse bricksbotsbeakers.com
Type of Camp: Day Camp, Theatre Ages: Depends on the program
Alley Theatre strives to create the next great generation of artists, and even scientists through our innovative arts education programs. Our Education department offers camps led by professional theatre arts Teaching Artists and nationally recognized Alley Theatre Company artists.
Type of Camp: Sports, Health Ages: 6-14 years
We’re focused on providing a rewarding experience that will build confidence, reinforce teamwork and inspire the personal growth necessary for your child to take the next step in life.
Type of Camp: Education, Enrichment Ages: 6 years and up
Type of Camp: Adventure, Academic, Out-oftown, Technology, Overnight Ages: 14-17 years
Kayak adventures for adults and children over 5 to areas of natural significance on Galveston Island and Galveston Bay.
Type of Camp: Travel, Adventure Ages: 12-16 years
An amazing International Summer Camp for young teens in Australia, exploring The Great Barrier Reef, surfing, kayaking and immersing in cultural activities. Growing Global Citizens.
Type of Camp: Half-Day, Local Ages: K-5th grade
Type of Camp: Academic, Day Camp, Local, 4997 West Belfort, Houston TX 77035 Sports, Technology Ages: Please Call 832-338-9808
12163 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77079 281-497-6666 www.birons.net
Welcome to Arctic Camp International, the northernmost educational camp in the world! Fjords, midnight sun, scenic nature, viking heritage. It’s all here in Norway. Join Arctic Camp to learn more about science, nature and photo through exciting field activities. We guarantee an experience of a lifetime!
Type of Camp: Half-day, Enrichment, Arts Ages: 5 and above
Bayou City Fencing Academy / Interactive Robotics Academy
Birons Youth Sports Center
Our mission is to excite, inspire, and motivate young people about the fun, importance and impact of robotics technology in today’s world. Our classes teach students to understand “how things work” through hands-on activities that demonstrate the principles of simple and motorized machines.
Type of Camp: Day Camps, Full-Day, Half-Day, Sports Ages: 3-14 years
WOW camps include a variety of S.T.E.M (Science, Technology. Education and Math) topics as well as creative Language and Art camps. WOW camps provide the same creative, engaging and challenging enrichment experiences as our award winning preschool programs. Camps include: LEGO Minecraft, S.T.E.A.M. of Frozen, S.T.E.A.M of Harry Potter, Week of WOW and more! All classes will take place at The Houston Athletic Fencing Center which is a 23,000 sq ft facility in the Meyerland Westbury area. Camps available June, July & August for beginner & intermediate fencers. With a program for every child and the convenience of full or half day care at one location, Birons is the best camp destination in Houston this summer. With over 25 years of summer camp experience, join our incredible staff in our award winning summer day camp, gymnastics camp, cheer camp, martial arts camp, or dance camp.
C A M P DIRECTORY
S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N Bowlmor Lanes 925 Bunker Hill Rd. Houston, TX 77024 713-461-1207 www.bowlmor.com/houston
Type of Camp: Day Camps, Co-ed Ages: See Website
Building Brains LEGO Engineering Type of Camp:
Have fun gaining more knowledge of the game and improve bowling skills. Campers placed in different groups based on age.
LEGO I: campers will learn math and science by building simple machines with lego and knex. Fun themes like circus fun, and transportation. LEGO II: campers will learn to build simple machines using gears, levers and pulleys and then motorize.
Over 10 Locations Across Houston 888-55-BUILD http://BUILDINGBRAINS.BIZ
Academic, Technology, Full-day, Half-day Ages: LEGO I : 3-5 years LEGO II : 6-12 years
Camp Allen
Type of Camp: Co-Ed, Overnight Ages: 3-12th graders
Located 1 hour from Houston, Camp Allen’s Summer Camping program provides over 1,900 campers with the opportunity to experience themselves and God through fun, challenging and inspirational activities.
Type of Camp: Overnight, Local, Co-ed Ages: 6-16 years
A Christian summer camp located in Livingston, TX. We welcome ages 6-16 to come experience one or two life changing weeks of camp filled with exciting activities & awesome program.
Type of Camp: Academic, Co-ed, Day Camp Ages: 6-12 years
Camp Invention is where BIG ideas become the next BIG thing! Local educators lead a week of hands-on activities created especially for elementary students. Time will be spent constructing a freestyle racing cart and taking apart electronics to assemble something one-of-a-kind.
Type of Camp: Overnight, Sports Ages: 6-16 years
Camps Rio Vista and Sierra Vista are private brother-sister camps in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, and have been positively impacting children’s lives since 1921. They offer one, two, and four week camp sessions for boys and girls ages 6-16.
18800 FM 362 Navasota, Texas 77868 936-825-7175 www.campallen.org
Camp Cho-Yeh 2200 S. Washington Ave Livingston, TX 77351 936-328-3200 www.cho-yeh.org
Camp Invention Nationwide and over 20 locations in the greater Houston area 800-968-4332 www.campinvention.org
Camps Rio Vista & Sierra Vista 175 Rio Vista Rd Ingram, Texas 830-367-5353 www.vistacamps.com
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march 2015 . houston family magazine . 27
C A M P DIRECTORY Capitol Debate University of Houston (additional locations nationwide) 800-450-5012 www.capitoldebate.com
Type of Camp: Day Camp, Overnight Ages: Middle School and High School
Challenger Sports
Type of Camp: Sports Over 20 locations across the Ages: 3-16 years Greater Houston area and a further 300 locations across TX and LA! 512-416-7706, www.challengersports.com
Children’s Summer Art Camp 6900 S. Rice Ave. Bellaire, Houston, TX 77401 713-527-0523; www.hannahbacolbuschgallery.com
Crossing Borders Camps Houston, Spring, The Woodlands, & Katy locations 281-465-0899 www.crossingborderscamps.com
Digital Media Academy Rice University 1-866-656-3342 www.digitalmediaacademy.org
Discover Gymnastics 747 N. Shepherd Dr. #400 713-680-0045 www.discovergymnastics.com
28 . houston family magazine . march 2015
Type of Camp: Day, Arts Ages: 6-13 years
Type of Camp: Day, Language, Local Ages: 18months-Adults
S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N Capitol Debate will be offering two debate programs: Middle School Debate Camp and Public Forum Debate Camp. The camp will accept students with no experience all the way to the top debaters in the country. All students will be situated with students of like experience and age. June 7 to June 19. Challenger’s British Soccer Camps have helped hundreds of thousands of young boys and girls fall in love with the sport of soccer for the past 25 years by utilizing our fully qualified British Coaches to deliver our unique, fun and developmental soccer program. At Hannah Bacol Busch Gallery’s Summer Art Camp, children will enjoy Drawing, Painting, Sculpting & Photography! Camp dates: June 9 - August 28 (Tuesday - Friday) from 10:30am to 3:30pm. $80/Full Day, Snacks included. $299 Special Weekly Rate. All art supplies are included. Summer & Spring Language Camps! Enroll your child in an immersive summer camp at Crossing Borders! Spanish, English (ESL), French, and Mandarin. Childhood is the ideal time to acquire a second or third language. With proper exposure in a controlled environment, children are like sponges, and they can absorb the sounds, words, and sentence structures of a completely foreign language with little difficulty.
Type of Camp: Technology, Arts, Academic, Full-Day, Overnight, Co-ed, Adventure Ages: 6-18 years
Make apps, design video games; program in C++, learn Java™, create apps and games for iOS and Android™; make movies, build robots and more in this hands-on, world-class summer experience.
Type of Camp: Sports Ages: 3-14 years
Choose from half-day, full day, all week or all summer! Special Themes every week - awards for best dressed! Campers enjoy gymnastics instruction, games, team-building, crafts and live Friday Entertainment! NEW Preschool (ages 3-5) camp going on all summer too! Tumbling & Trampoline Camp August 17-21.
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
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march 2015 . houston family magazine . 29
C A M P DIRECTORY Downtown Aquarium Houston 410 Bagby St. Houston, TX 713-315-5104 www.aquariumrestaurants.com/ downtownaquariumhouston/
Type of Camp: Day Camp Ages: 7-12 years
Elite University
Type of Camp: Day Camps,
Academic, Arts, Sports, 6145 San Felipe St. Technology and Theater Houston, Texas 77057 Ages: 5-11 years 2353 Rice Blvd Houston, TX 77005 713-454-7989; www.elitesummercamps.com
Fun Fair Positive Soccer (FFPS) 22 locations offered city wide 800-828-7529 (PLAY) or Jack at 713-907-4907 www.ffps.org
Frozen Ropes-Katy 20000 Park Row Rd. Houston, TX 77449 281-578-9790 www.frozenropes.com/katy
Girl Scouts Resident Camp 3110 Southwest Fwy Houston, TX 77098, 713-292-0300 http://www.gssjc.org/en/camps/ summer-resident-camp
GS Soccer Academy 2511 Eldridge Rd. Sugar Land, TX 77498, 713-575-4020 www.gssocceracademy.com
30 . houston family magazine . march 2015
Type of Camp: Sports, Day, Co-ed Ages: 4-18 years
Type of Camp: Sports, Half-Day, Full-Day Ages: 6-18 years
Type of Camp: Overnight Ages: K-12th grade
Type of Camp: Sports, Soccer Ages: 5-16 years
S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N Summer camps at the Downtown Aquarium offer a unique opportunity for your child to learn in a fun, hands-on environment. Each camp is a week long and offers plenty of time for games, crafts, animal interactions, and amusement rides!
Elite University Summer Camp is proud to be Houston’s quality summer camp. For ten years we have a provided a program with stimulating curriculum. Elite U provides a variety of camp options that appeals to every type of child.
A maximum of fun & learning with the utmost of fairness & self-esteem building in which positive behavior and positive values & friendships can be realized for every child. Spring Soccer sign up ends March 23. All 8 games on Saturdays starting April 11.
Frozen Ropes is more than just a hitting facility. We offer multi-sport camps, baseball/softball specific camps, and hosting an “EPIC” birthday party your child will never forget.
Girls can choose from more than 10 fun-themed sessions to match her personal style. So whether she attends the Extreme Adventure session or Saddle Up, she’s having a great time and learning important life skills. Weekly sessions are held June 14-July 26, with mini sessions available for grades K-3. Tuition ranges from $125-$750. Second goal is to give galatasaray our players, develop their skills for the professional level, and give them Galatasaray’s culture and the soul. Our other goal is to help our players to get scholarship to make their education better.
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march 2015 . houston family magazine . 31
C A M P DIRECTORY The Health Museum 1515 Hermann Drive, Houston 713-521-1515 www.thehealthmuseum.org
Heights Plant Farm 2521 North Durham Drive Houston, TX 77008 713-868-7990 www.heightsplantfarm.com
Houston Center for Photography 1441 West Alabama Street Houston, TX 77006, 713-529-4755 www.hcponline.org
Houston Dynamo Camps Soccer Facilities in the Houston Area 713-433-3967 www.houstondynamo.com
Houston Humane Society 14700 Almeda Rd. Houston, TX 77053 713-433-6421 www.houstonhumane.org
Houston SPCA 900 Portway Drive Houston, TX 77024 713-869-7722 ext 143 www.houstonspca.org
32 . houston family magazine . march 2015
Type of Camp: Full Day, Academic, Co-Ed, Local, Sports Ages: 5-13 years
Type of Camp: Day Camp, Art, Gardening Ages: 5-16 years
S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N Ready. Set. Science! Pack this spring break with scientific fun! Our week-long camps from March 9 - 13 & March 16 - 20 are filled with hands-on activities, dissections and more. Lunch is included with camp registration. Extended camp days are also available.
HPF Camps are safe, fun, unique, learning and entertaining experiences for children of all ages. From plants and crystals to art cars and animals, growth and creativity are the focus!
Type of Camp: Arts, Full-Day Ages: 9-12, 13-17 years
HCP’s Summer Camp program will teach the basics of photography and beyond: learn the processing software (Photoshop and Lightroom) and how to fine tune a picture for the best possible quality.
Type of Camp: Full-day, Half-day, Local, Sports Ages: 5-6, 7-12 years
Looking for a challenging soccer experience or a fun introduction to the game? In age- and ability-specific groups, led by experienced and qualified Dynamo coaching staff, players will be motivated to achieve through appropriate soccer activities. Indoor and Outdoor camps available.
Type of Camp: Day Camp, Co-ed, Animals Ages: 7-13 years, teen week: 12-15 years
Type of Camp: Day Camp, Co-ed, Animals Ages: 8-15 years
Work hands-on with animals cared for by Houston Humane Society and enjoy workshops, games, and crafts. Register before June 1st for discounts.
The Houston SPCA’s Summer Critter Camp is a fun-filled day camp where children can learn all about their favorite animals! Each day our campers learn new animal facts, do arts and crafts and play with our adoptable shelter pets. Space is limited, sign up today!
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www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
march 2015 . houston family magazine . 33
C A M P DIRECTORY iD Tech Camp Rice University, U Houston, throughout Texas, and nationwide www.idtech.com
iKids Inc. Camp Multiple locations in the Houston area. 713-665-5200 www.ikidsinc.com
Kidventure Overnight Camp
Type of Camp: Academic, Technology Ages: 6-18 years
Type of Camp: Day Camp, Co-ed, Technology Ages: 3-12 years
Visit our website to find a location near you! 888-523-6765 www.KinderCare.com
The Kinkaid Summer Program 201 Kinkaid School Dr Houston, TX 77024 713-782-1640 kinkaid.org/summer
Language Kids 19901 Southwest Freeway Ste 243 Sugar Land, TX 77479 281-565-1388 www.Language-Kids.com
Legends Sports Complex
Type of Camp: Day Camp,
Voted ‘Texas’ Favorite Summer Camp 2014’ by Campsloop, Kidventure has been providing summer camp in Houston for 21 years. 17 Locations in the Houston area provide families with a summer camp experience based on building and enriching the lives of kids.
Type of Camp: Adventure, Art, Day Camp, Local, Science Ages: Preschool through School-Age
If your kids are looking to take the lazy days of summer and find something amazing and exciting in each and every one of them, then enroll now in all six of KinderCare’s summer break programs! Our six action-filled themes are full of fun and learning. Our Summer includes: convenient all-day care available, exciting weekly field trips, fun indoor and outdoor activities, education and learning all summer long & more!
Type of Camp: Day Camp, Co-ed, Academic, Arts, Sports Ages: 4-18 years
Kinkaid offers a variety of summer classes and camps for students entering Pre K through 12th grade. The summer program is open to all students.
Type of Camp: Academic Ages: 4-11 years
Type of Camp: Half-Day,
602 Pruitt Road Full-Day, Sports, Co-ed The Woodlands, TX 77380 Ages: 3-16 years 281-298-5700 www.TheLegendsSportsComplex.com/ Summer-Camps
The Little Gym Bellaire, Copperfield, Friendswood, Heights, Katy, Kingwood, Memorial, Pearland, Spring, Sugar Land, The Woodlands; www.thelittlegymoftexas.com
Lone Star College Discovery College 5 Locations Across Houston LoneStar.edu/DiscoveryCollege
Mad Science Over 20 Locations! 713-663-7623 www.madscienceofhouston.com
Main Street Theater Multiple Locations in Houston 713-524-7998 www.mainstreettheater.com 34 . houston family magazine . march 2015
A summer adventure exploring Computer, Lego Robotics, and Music Technology! Every fun-filled camp theme has a technology focus plus creative activities, educational enrichment, recreation time & more! Camps 9a-noon; 1-4p; $165-$170/week. Camp dates Jun-Aug. Since 1994, Kidventure Overnight Camp has been one of the most rewarding and dynamic summer camps in Texas. Our camp mission is simple: provide kids with the opportunities to learn important life lessons through adventure, teamwork and just pure fun!
17 individual Camp Locations Full-Day, Academic, Arts, Sports Throughout the Houston Area Ages: 3-16 years 713-960-8989 http://kidventure.com/summer-day-camp
KinderCare Learning Centers
Ages 7-17 code apps, design video games, mod with Minecraft, engineer robots, build websites, produce movies and more. Available at select campuses nationwide: Alexa Café (all-girls, ages 10-15), iD Tech Mini (ages 6-9), and iD Programming Academy and iD Game Design & Development (ages 13-18).
Type of Camp:
Kidventure has 2 Overnight locations: Overnight Camp Hunt, Texas and Rocksprings, Texas Ages: 8-16 years 512-263-8992 http://kidventure.com/overnight-camps
Kidventure Summer Day Camp
S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N
Give your child the gift of another language this summer! Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, French & English outstanding immersion camps. Trained and experienced teachers, low student-teacher ratio. Hands on crafts and activities in the target language. Fun & Safe. Visit our website or call us for more information. Legends Summer Camps focus on team building, leadership skills, sports, fitness and fun! Sports are played and enjoyed with the perfect blend of instruction, sportsmanship, and competition. Legends professionally trained counselors ensure that every child has a rewarding, safe, and fun experience.
Type of Camp: Sports, Half-Day Ages: 3-12 years
Our Super Kid’s Quest Camps (3-8 years) combine physical activity, gymnastics, and games with arts, crafts, and special LEGO® building! Our Skill Thrill Camps (6-12 years) focus on learning specific skills while reviewing and practicing all-around gymnastics.
Type of Camp: Academic, Science, Technology, Arts, Sports Ages: 6-14 years
Discover exciting and rewarding ways for your child to grow this summer, with science, technology, engineering, and math-based programs, as well as performing arts, physical activity and more!
Type of Camp: Day, Local Ages: 3-12 years
Discover all the fun and unforgettable hands-on experiments in our camps this summer!
Type of Camp: Arts Ages: 4-14 years
A performing arts playground where imaginations are sparked as students collaborate to create an original play and dance piece. Arts and educational professionals provide guidance and know-how support to students (ages 4 – 11). One day “Turbo Camps” at the end of the summer (ages 6 - 11). www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
C A M P DIRECTORY Moody Gardens
Type of Camp: Academic,
Moody Gardens, Galveston Adventure, Co-ed, Half-Day, 409-683-4325 Full-Day www.moodygardens.com/education/ Ages: 3-14 years pyramid_kids_camp/pyramid_camps/
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston 6003 Memorial Drive Houston, Texas 77007 713-639-7759 www.mfah.org/historycamp
Pine Cove Christian Camps Columbus, TX 877-474-6326 www.pinecove.com
Primrose Schools of West Houston & Katy 2150 Eldridge Parkway Houston, TX 77077, 713-240-8314 www.primroseschools.com
Quillian Center 10570 Westpark Dr., Houston 713-458-4712 www.quilliancenter.org
Redd School 4820 Strack Road Houston, TX 77069 281-440-1106 www.reddschool.com
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S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N Learn through story time, make a craft, have a themed snack, and visit one of the Pyramids at Moody Gardens at Preschool camps for campers 3-4 years of age. Get ready for adventure as we discover the amazing worlds of oceans, rainforests, and much more during our exciting Day Camps for ages 5-9. Ages 12-14 will have the chance to work alongside one of our biologists at Keeper for a Day camps.
Type of Camp: Full-day, Academic, Arts, Day Camp, Local, Adventure Ages: 9-11 years
At Bayou Bend Summer History Camp, kids can become blacksmiths, make candles, play colonial games, write with quill pens, wear 18th-century clothes, and more! Bayou Bend’s collection of early Americana provides inspiration for exploring how children lived 250 years ago.
Type of Camp: Day Camp, Overnight Camp Ages: Families of all ages; Overnight Youth: entering 2-12 grades; Day Camp: entering 1-6 grade
Pine Cove’s Youth Camps, Family Camps, and Day Camps offer crazy theme nights and fun activities such as paintball, wakeboarding, horses, and ropes courses, but our ultimate desire and hope is for people’s lives to be transformed through the love of Jesus.
Type of Camp: Day Camp Ages: 6 weeks - 6 years
Primrose Schools is the nation’s leader in providing a premier educational child care experience in more than 270 schools in 17 states.
Type of Camp: Sports, Adventure Ages: 5-14 years
Camp Quillian is an ACA accredited camp with a rock wall, gym, game room, soccer and baseball fields, two swimming pools, and many more exciting activities to keep your child safe and active this summer. Each week has its own theme, and special events to keep children engaged.
Type of Camp: Full-Service Day Camp, Co-ed, Academic Option Available Ages: Grades K-8
Campers enjoy a full range of activities including swimming, horseback riding, arts and crafts, drama, science and a host of summer fun antics. Enjoy our safe 5 1/2 acre campus in a child friendly environment.
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
C A M P DIRECTORY
S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N Robots4U 855-740-1199 Multiple Locations www.robots-4-u.com
Sam Houston Equestrian 13551 Lew Briggs Rd Houston, TX 77047 713-433-PONY (7669) www.learnhorse.com
SeaWorld San Antonio 10500 SeaWorld Drive San Antonio, Texas 78251 210-523-3608 www.seaworld.com
Sideline Spirit 602 Pruitt Rd, Ste 100, Spring 77380 Located inside the Legends Sports Complex, 281-907-4211 www.gosidelinespirit.com
Shake It Up VBS at The Church of St. John the Divine 2450 River Oaks Blvd, Houston 77019 713-622-3600, www.sjd.org/ministries/ children/vacation-bible-school/
Stars Gymnastics 10516-G Katy Freeway Houston, TX 77043 713-464-4996 starsgymtx.com
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
Type of Camp: Half-Day, Local Ages: 7-17 years
Campers having a BLAST, while learning and playing in a dynamic environment. Learning about robotics, engineering and Science, in a independent and exciting way. Week-long camps. Beginners to Master Builders welcomed!
Type of Camp: Local, Day Ages: 7+ years
Teaching the fundamentals of horsemanship in a fun, hands on learning environment. Spring Break Camps too! Extended day available.
Type of Camp: Co-ed, Day Camp, Overnight, Out-of-Town, Half-day, Full-day Ages: 3-4 year olds up to college
At SeaWorld Camp students aren’t just observing marine life; they are a part of it. Students go behind the scenes and interact with different animals!
Type of Camp: Day Camp, Local, Sports Ages: See Website
Looking for a fun filled activity for your child this summer? Look no further than Sideline Spirit! Our summer camps offer a variety of activities for children to learn, grow and stay active while providing key life skills for all ages. July 13-17, 9-12pm each day, Late Pick-Up Available.
Type of Camp: VBS, Half-Day Ages: Ages 4 - 5th grade
Shake it Up at Vacation Bible School 2015! Runs August 3 - 7 from 9:30 am - 12:30 pm each day.
Type of Camp: Gymnastics, Day, Sports Ages: 3-12 years
We offer a day camp for kids ages 3-12. Gymnastics, games, trampoline, arts and crafts. Full days or half days available.
march 2015 . houston family magazine . 37
C A M P DIRECTORY Summer Magic 1245 Height Blvd, Houston TX 77008 713-880-5565 www.clairedance.com
Summer Theatre Camp at The Grand 1894 Opera House 2020 Postoffice Street Galveston, Texas 77550 409-765-1894, www.thegrand.com
S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N
Type of Camp: Day Camp, Arts Ages: 4-12 years
Children explore their creativity in unique programs in art, dance, cooking, drama, writing, sewing, French, and more! Frozen, Ooh la la! Paris!, Fashion, Fairy Magic, Little Mermaid, Camp Cupcake, Hip Hop, Princess Camp, and Purple Crayon Arts & Poetry Camp. Children learn while having fun!
Type of Camp: Theatre, Day Camp Ages: 7-17 years
Week long residency with the Missoula Children’s Theatre. This year’s production is Cinderella. When your child’s character is not in rehearsal they will be engage in different activities that are related to the book Cinderella. July 13-17; $245 per child
Sylvan of Houston
Type of Camp: Cypress, Pearland, The Woodlands, Technology, Tutoring, Education Kingwood, Pearland, Baytown, Ages: Grades 1-8 Missouri City, Clear Lake, Spring, Katy and Sugar Land, 1-800-EDUCATE www.SylvanLearning.com
Robotics (Grades 1-7): Kids build and program robots, develop new STEM skills, and have fun! Challenge your young engineer, computer programmer or scientist with robotics. Coding (Grades 2-8): Students have a blast creating video games and animated stories while learning skills such as basic coding, problem solving, logic, physics and more.
T Bar M Camps
Type of Camp: Overnight
Camp is one of the most lasting, rewarding experiences parents can give their children. It builds self-esteem, gives kids a sense of independence and allows them to take a breather from the day-to-day. Over 10,000 people experience T Bar M adventure every year. Come and see what it’s all about!
Type of Camp: Day Camp, Half-Day, Full-Day, Co-ed, Technology Ages: Ages 4 - College Aged
Tech It Out is a high tech robotics camp where kids and teens learn how to build and program a robot of their own design in small teams.
Type of Camp: Day Camp, Half-Day, Full-Day, Co-ed, Technology Ages: Ages 4 - College Aged
Our mission is to inspire learning and innovating in a tech-savvy community by building creative individuals. We leverage robotics, Minecraft, 3D Printing, LEGOs, programming, animations and many other technologies. We have a makerspace and club atmosphere that encourages mentoring and teamwork.
2549 HWY 46 W. Ages: 6-18 years New Braunfels, TX 78132 2800 CR 414, Spicewood, TX 78669 830-620-4263, www.tbarmcamps.org
Tech It Out - Robotics 10 Locations across Greater Houston 281-773-4664 www.BotShopRocks.com
Techno Chaos 7320 Hwy 90A, Suite 210 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-410-1768 http://techno-chaos.com
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www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
march 2015 . houston family magazine . 39
C A M P DIRECTORY TUTS’ Humphreys School of Musical Theatre 800 Bagby, Suite 200 Houston, TX 77002, 713-558-8801
Type of Camp: Day Camp, Theatre Ages: 4-12 years
http://www.tuts.com/hsmt
University of St. Thomas 3800 Montrose Blvd. Houston, TX 77006 713-522-7911 www.stthom.edu/summercamps
Type of Camp: Sports, Arts, Co-ed, Day Camps Ages: 4-18 years
USA Chess Summer Chess Camps Type of Camp:
S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N TUTS’ Humphreys School of Musical Theatre (HSMT) offers weeklong summer camps that give students the opportunity to explore various areas of musical theatre. HSMT weekly camps are offered for students ages 4-12 and begin on June 8, 2015. Call (713) 558-8801 or visit www.TUTS.com/HSMT to register. Get ahead this summer with day camps at the University of St. Thomas. The University offers sports and music camps for all ages during June and July. All camps take place on the University’s campus. Visit website for dates, pricing and registration information for each camp. Campers experience chess instruction from experienced instructors and play in a fun filled environment designed to improve their skills whether they are interested in casual or competitive chess, beginner thru advanced.
Various locations across Houston 888-652-4377 www.activelearningcamps.com
Co-ed, Day Camps, Full-day, Half-day, Local Ages: 6-16 years
Video Game Creation Camp
Type of Camp: Day Camps, Full-day, Half-day Ages: 7-16 years
Campers will design, develop and create a one of a kind video game with all of the special effects such as running, jumping, blasting, and enemy stomping! All this while teaching programming skills and encouraging creativity! Gamemaker Video Game Creation: Arcade and Platform Styles; Kudo Video Game Creation: Go-Kart and Adventure Styles.
Type of Camp: Day Camp, Full-Day, Half-Day, Co-Ed, Private, Sports Ages: Pre-school through Middle School
There’s no shortage of excitement and fun with The Village School Summer Programs! We strive to offer a variety of programs and classes that will educate, entertain, and engage your child through hands on activities and proven curriculum.
Type of Camp: Sports, Adventure, Day Camp, Full-Day, Half-Day, Co-ed Ages: 7-17 years
Learn to wakeboard, wakeskate, waterski, kneeboard, and paddleboard WITHOUT a boat in a fun, supportive environment from our experienced and professional staff. Campers also enjoy our inflatable waterslide, trampoline, & jungle gym. You don’t even need your own equipment.
Various locations across Houston 888-652-4377 www.chesscamp.com
The Village School Summer Programs 13077 Westella, Houston, TX 77077 281-496-7900 www.thevillageschool.com/summer
Wake Nation 4411 County Road 418 Rosharon, TX 77583 281-431-4444 http://wakenationhouston.com
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www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
C A M P DIRECTORY
S P E C I A L A D V E RT I S I N G S E C T I O N Western Academy 1511 Butlercrest Houston, TX 77080 713-461-7000 www.westernacademy.net
Wonder-Space Tech Camp 281-968-9306 www.wstechcamp.com
Woodlands Fencing Academy 2227 Golden Road The Woodlands, TX 77380 832-482-3138 www.woodlandsfencingacademy.com
YMCA Camp Cullen Located along the shores of Lake Livingston, 1.5 hours north of Houston. 936-594-2274 www.ymcacampcullen.org
YMCA of Greater Houston
Type of Camp: Sports, Day Camp, Adventure, Academic, All Boy, Private, Full-Day Ages: 7-14 years
Western Academy is pleased to offer a fine array of summer day camps. Each camp features a unique way for local boys to engage and enjoy the summer. Western Academy Summer Day Camps where boys ages 7-14 COME ALIVE every summer!
Type of Camp: Technology Ages: 7-15 years
WSTechCamp is dedicated to building the minds of the future. WS Courses are designed with every Techie in mind and our counselors are programmers, graphic designers, website creators, game developers, and computer science enthusiasts who love to share their knowledge about technology.
Type of Camp: Sports, Co-ed, Day Camp Ages: 8-14 years
Fencing Summer Camps for Girls and Boys! Life sport that kids love. Improves fitness, self esteem and is FUN. Opportunities for college and beyond. Start now- learn to fence!
Type of Camp: Overnight Ages: 7-17 years
YMCA Camp Cullen offers the premier overnight camping experience in the Houston area. Located on 530 acres along the shores of Lake Livingston, Camp Cullen features horseback riding, target sports and water sports. Weekly sessions begin in June. Learn more at www.ymcacampcullen.org.
More than 30 locations throughout the Houston area. Please visit ymcahouston.org for location and program details. 713-659-5566 www.ymcahouston.org
Type of Camp: Day Camps Ages: 5-15 years
Yorkshire Academy
Type of Camp: Academic, Sports, Damp Camp, Full-Day, Half-Day, Co-ed Ages: 24 months-6th grade
14120 Memorial Drive Houston, TX 77079 281-531-6088 www.yorkshireacademy.com
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
In YMCA Camps, kids can find new talents, independence and friendships. Day Camp and Teen Camp offer field trips, swimming, creative arts, games and more. Sports and Specialty Camps allow kids to focus on an activity for an entire session. Weekly camps, June 1 - August 21. Space is limited per session to ensure the highest quality experience for your child. Register today! Yorkshire Academy’s Summer Program offers a wide array of camp options for 24 months–6th gr. Offerings include: Academics, over 50 enrichment camps, and theme based camps with flexibility for half day, full day, or full time care.
march 2015 . houston family magazine . 41
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www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
st.patty’scrafts look what we found on
Eraser Stamped St. Patrick’s Day Shirt by Cutesy Crafts at http://cutesycrafts.com/ 2014/02/eraser-stampedst-patricks-day-shirt
Rice Krispie Treats with Lucky Charms Marchmallows by Classy Cluter at www.classyclutter.net/2014/ 02/st-patricks-day-rice-krispietreats-with-lucky-charmsmarshmallows
• Rainbow Clothing for Little Girls • Rainbow Waffles • Shamrock Wreath A Little Tipsy at www.alittletipsy.com/2013/ 02/90-st-patricks-day-ideas
Check out our Pinterest page for more crafts, products, recipes, parenting tips, and more!
www.pinterest.com/HoustonFamily www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
march 2015 . houston family magazine . 43
familytable houston’s best eats field trip: fresh fish finds on the coast by by the editors of my table, houston’s dining magazine
seabrook’s waterfront drive is a hub for fresh seafood markets stocked with fish caught by local fishermen.
D fishermen motor up the galveston channel and unload their catches directly from their boats into the stores.
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id you know that you can buy Gulf seafood fresh from the boat in both Galveston and Seabrook? Rarely do kids get the chance to see where their food comes from, and young minds are often curious about the rough-and-tumble sea-to-table-process. If your children are familiar with fishing themselves, they’ll like checking out the daily catch. If they’re new to the world of fresh seafood displayed on crushed ice, they’ll be fascinated to see what fish look like before they become fish sticks. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
GALVESTON
On Wharf Road along the Galveston Channel, these two family-owned businesses are the lone seafood markets left in the area that run their businesses the old-fashioned way: Fishermen motor up the channel and unload their catches directly from their boats into the stores. SAMPSON & SON’S SEAFOOD MARKET, Pier 20 at Wharf Road, Galveston, 409763-9316, sampsonseafood.com Sampson & Son’s Seafood Market opened in1921 – and 94 years (and three generations) later, Milton Samson III owns the oldest retail seafood market in Galveston. “A lot of markets just truck fish in,” says Sampson, who took over the family business in 1968 when he was just 18 years old. “They don’t make ’em like this anymore – direct from the boat to you.” What you’re likely to find here: vermillion, red snapper, whiting, calamari, flounder, tuna, oysters and live crabs. KATIE’S SEAFOOD MARKET, Pier 19 at Wharf Road, Galveston, 409-7638160, katiesseafoodmarket.com The Guindon family opened Katie’s Seafood Market in 1998. With a focus on Gulf Wild-branded seafood, Buddy Guindon, his wife Katie and his brother Kenny sell all their fish (except salmon and tilapia) directly off the boat. What exactly is Gulf Wild? Fishermen affiliated with Gulf Wild – which is a conservationfocused fishery – tag each of their caught fish with an identifying number. The number can be entered on the Gulf Wild website (mygulfwild. us) and tells the user who caught the fist, where it was caught and even what port it landed. This ensures that the fish was responsibly harvested from a conservation-focused fishery. Kids will enjoy using their computer to research exactly where supper was caught. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
fresh fish finds ROSE’S SEAFOOD INC. 281-474-3536 T H SEAFOOD INC. 281-291-0339 GOLDEN SEAFOOD INC. 281-731-1929 goldenseafoodinc.com EMERY’S SEAFOOD 281-474-4091 emerysseafood.com BAYBROOK’S FRESH SEAFOOD 281-474-2846 baybrookseafood.com
SEABROOK
Across the bridge from the Kemah Boardwalk, Seabrook’s Waterfront Drive (also called 11th Avenue) is a hub for fresh seafood markets. Fish in these markets aren’t right off the boat – the fish are trucked over from the nearby piers – but most are caught by area fishermen and shrimpers. Depending on the season, you might find red snapper, mackerel, tuna, catfish, croaker, flounder, milk fish, pompano, several kinds of crab and shrimp, plus lots of seafood seasonings. Oysters are available in the shell and by the sack, as well as shucked by the quart and gallon. During the summer and on the weekends, you can see people fishing in the bay right behind the shops in this market area, so bring your fishing pole if you want to try your own luck. The ‘Family table’ column is brought to you as a collaboration between My Table and Houston Family Magazines. This column will appear monthly in print & online. For more information on great dining in and around Houston, please pick up the latest issue of My Table or visit them online at www.my-table.com march 2015 . houston family magazine . 45
iamhouston people who represent all that is good about houston
elizabeth irvine: healthy mother, healthy child by tonya kerr
L
et’s face it, as wonderful as it is, motherhood can leave you feeling overwhelmed and clueless in how to care for yourself and your baby in a natural healthy way. Elizabeth Irvine is passionate about how to bring our body into healthy balance. She was not always not this way. “Through my son’s illness, I was pushed into a healthier lifestyle,” Irvine says, “which was the beginning for me of understanding the true nature, the depths of my body’s ability to perform when it’s allowed to do what it is capable of. I began to see gradual healthy shifts and got excited to share this information with others. Everyone has the capability— it’s just about opening up to it. The body can heal itself.” Irvine offers a metaphor via a game she and her children play whenever they see a FedEx delivery truck. On the side of the truck, imbedded in the letters “FedEx,” there is an arrow incorporated into the logo. You have to look at the words in a different way—soften your gaze and see past the letters to find the arrow resting inside. “My kids could always spot it right away, laughing their heads off, ‘Aw come on, Mom—you can’t see it?’ as the truck sped away before I could find it,”
46 . houston family magazine . march 2015
Irvine explains. “And then one day, sitting in a long line of going-nowhere traffic, a FedEx truck pulled up next to me. Having nothing else to claim my attention, I relaxed, looking into those letters and the arrows somehow emerged clear as day.” Now that she knows how to look at those letters, Irvine sees the arrow right away; it just took that first time to “get it.” “Our health and happiness are the very same, with children probably more aware of their innate healing ability than we are,” Irvine says. “It’s just like stepping back and seeing our body and its relationship to ourselves, to others and our world with gentle eyes— allowing our true self, our true wellbeing—more energy, clarity, strength and joy to come forward. It is always there, just not always seen: our body’s own ability to self-heal, to stay in balance and create health and happiness from the inside out.” HFM: Tell our readers about your own “new-mom-chaos” and why that was a catalyst to make changes in your life? EI: My son’s illness became my portal that lead me to a place of new possibilities and a new way of caring for his little body, and my own. HFM: Processed and fast food is easy and it’s economical.
What do you say to people who tell you they can’t afford the time or the money to prepare fresh, seasonal foods? EI: As a mother, once you begin to be attentive to the choices you make, your own healthy choices lead your children. Try this healthy breakfast experiment: Serve protein and whole grain: a whole-grain cereal with milk or eggs and whole grain toast. Notice how you feel later in the morning, and watch how your kids respond with better mood and attention. HFM: You’ve been an ICU nurse, a health writer, a yoga instructor, and the list goes on. In addition to diet, why do you feel strongly about integrated healthcare? EI: I accept both modalities (conventional and complementary medicine) and let them complement each other, fusing
modern technology with thousands of years of natural wisdom. Use your food, increased self-awareness, and a sundry of options—and build a bridge for you to connect and introduce you to concepts. In doing so, you’ll keep yourself well with the bonus of taking the pressure off our current health care system. HFM: You talk about our bodies having a natural healing ability and that mothers have an instinct or intuition that we should acknowledge. How do we tap into that? EI: The single most important thing you can do? Recognize a feeling. Are you feeling cranky, tired, overwhelmed or frustrated? If you don’t recognize the problem, how can you possibly fix it? Once you acknowledge this sensation you are already on your way to positive change. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
HFM: Tell us about your approach to taking care of ourselves first. EI: Why do we need to take care of ourselves first? When a woman changes her life for the better, her entire family benefits. I feel the wellbeing of the family depends upon women becoming and remaining healthy. Part of creating health is understanding the power of female energy and its implications. The health of a woman’s loved ones is directly linked to her own personal health. So we owe it to ourselves to take the time we need to heal. The first step is helping yourself; the next step is passing the ripple and benefit on to your children. HFM: What is a “present moment” and why is it important for moms to “be still?” EI: Let’s try it now. Bring your awareness to your breath and notice your inhalation and your exhalation. Take in a few slow deep breaths and release them back out as you allow your rib cage to expand, allowing your breath to gently soothe and nurture your body. How does this make you feel? This is experiencing the present moment. One final tip: Rely on your intuition and unconditional love and respect to confidently nurture your children. For me, my role as a mother has allowed me to open up and develop the formation of a person I didn’t know existed. It has dug down into the depths of me and extracted a deeper love, given me more compassion and a higher purpose in nurturing a child. This unfolding has made me more beautiful and more vulnerable than ever before.
houston family magazine’s 19th annual
c
15
20
ouston
2015 H
Family
mp fair
& summer vacation expo
Thank You!
Houston Family Magazine wants to say thank you to all of the sponsors, attendees and everyone who came out to our 19th Annual Camp Fair! You helped make it another successful event!
To learn more, read Elizabeth Irvine’s book, Healthy Mother, Healthy Child. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
march 2015 . houston family magazine . 47
feature Disney Cruise.
Kayak down the Buffalo Bayou.
Surviving & Thriving Spring Break 2015
The carnival at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.
B Y K I M B E R LY D A V I S G U E R R A
T
he kids are ready for it? Are you?? This year, we offer a few ideas for not only surviving, but thriving this spring break! Here are some ideas: Take a break from it all! Life is stressful. The kids aren’t the only ones that need a break. Take time off and get out of town!
Go Camping
With over 90 Texas State Parks, we literally have no limits on what we can experience. Whether you are in the mood for the beach, the dunes, the 48 . houston family magazine . march 2015
mountains or lakes, you can find it at one of the TPWD destinations. The best part is that while you and the kids are spending time communing with nature, it is not going to break the bank. Campsites rent for as little as $10 a night, up to $25 if you need electricity. Where else can you find those rates with such beauty at your doorstep? Visit www.tpwd.texas. gov for more information. Take a Cruise
With 3 cruise lines sailing out of the Port of Galveston and 2 lines out of the Port of
Houston, we literally have the world in our backyard. Hop on board and leave your cares at the door for a few days or up to a whole week! Three day trips start at $379 per person on Carnival! Hit Up the Nation’s Capital
One of my fondest memories as a child was visiting Washington, DC. Even at a young age, I realized how important that city is to our nation’s past, as well as our future. It is ripe with free spots to visit. The 19 museums that are attached to the Smithsonian Institute for
example. Also, be sure not to miss the National Zoo and the Air & Space Museum. Not Able to Get Out of Town?
How about hitting up H-town like a tourist?! Visit all of the spots that native Houstonians are too cool to visit. • Make the Bayou burp at the Big Bubble located inside one of the pillars at Preston Street bridge. • Visit the giant president’s heads outside the Target on www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
Kemah Boardwalk.
Shearn. Great way to start a conversation about our forefathers while staring at a 36ft sculpture of Lincoln’s head! • Head to Galveston. Hit up the Flight Museum, the Elyssa, tour the Bishop’s Castle & visit the pier for fresh fish right off the boat for dinner! • Visit the JP Morgan Chase Tower, one of the 10 tallest buildings in the USA. Ride up to the observation on the 60th floor and check out the view! • Spend a day at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo! The concerts are great, but have you experienced all the rest that the HLSR has to offer? Give yourself some time and see it all! • Rent a kayak and sail down the Buffalo Bayou. See the city from a whole new perspective. For more cool ideas, visit www.HoustonFamily Magazine.com Spring Break Guide. Don’t have the time or the funds to take a trip or don’t want to deal with the crowds of kids, that’s ok. You can create some great backyard fun for your spring breakers right at home. • Have a painting party! Buy a really large canvas and some eco-friendly paint in colors that match your decor and let the kids go wild. Think Pollock or Picasso. Then have them all sign it and hang it www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
above the fireplace. You will have a memory for years to enjoy. • Can’t go to the beach? Turn your backyard into one! Slip & Slides, sprinklers and a large blow up pool may be all you need for an afternoon of fun. Cook up hot dogs & hamburgers on the grill and turn up the tunes. All the fun, right at home. • Movie marathons. I love movies. Take a day and order pizzas, make popcorn and watch back to back faves. Really want to make it fun? Take it outside when the sun goes down. If you have a fire pit, you can even throw some smores into the mix for that over the top fun! • Looking for something more physical? How about bounce houses & laser tag. There are a couple of companies in town that specialize in bringing you the best & biggest bounce houses, slides, laser tag courses &/ or video game trucks. It’s a little over the top, but you are guaranteed to be the ‘it’ house for the day - maybe even spring break! Not able to take time off, then send the kids to camp! There are several companies that offer a great adventure or experience for your kids! • The Health Museum • YMCA • Kidventure • Moody Gardens • Mad Science • Sam Houston Equestrian Check out our Camp Directory on page 26 for other great camps! march 2015 . houston family magazine . 49
50 . houston family magazine . march 2015
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
bookbites book reviews
for the love of reading valerie koehler, owner of the beloved blue willow bookshop, and her staff hand-pick the best reading selections for kids. tween: ms. rapscott’s girls by elise primavera (dial books, march 2015)
toddler: please mr. panda by steve antony (scholastic books, january 2015)
Listen closely to the answers to Mr. Panda’s question about who wants doughnuts. The colorful illustrations will attract the attention of the youngest of readers. There’s a lesson on manners in here which is subtle but oh so true.
emerging readers: the princess in black by shannon hale & dean hale (candlewick press, 2014)
This princess knows how and when to dress in pink and when to dress in black. She’s a sassy heroine who must keep her deeds secret from the nosy Duchess Wigtower. The Hales know how to write comedy for all ages, and we look forward to many more in this funny series. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
a fine dessert by emily jenkins & sophie blackall (schwartz & wade books, january 2015)
Follow four families in four centuries as they each make the same delicious dessert-Blackberry Fool. Readers will want to discuss the way food was prepared through the ages. The first young girl picks the berries. The last young boy buys the berries at the supermarket. Pay particular attention to the afterword, as the authors explain the illustrations.
out to find his father and flee Nazi Germany; an orphaned piano prodigy in Depression-era Philadelphia who wants only to remain together with his brother; and the musically talented daughter of a migrant farmer, struggling with racial bias in early World War II California. Completely engaging, together these tales form a masterpiece of storytelling from Pam Munoz Ryan.
Ms. Rapscott’s School for Girls of Busy Parents is not your ordinary boarding school. Students arrive in flying boxes. Secondly, the curriculum is rather untraditional -- the students learn etiquette (how to write thankyou notes) as well as survival (how to cross the street without getting squashed). But the girls learn selfreliance from the wonderful Ms. Rapscott and her two corgis. A charming, very funny adventure.
teen: these broken stars by amie kaufman and megan spooner (disney hyperion press, 2013)
echo by pam munoz ryan (scholastic, february 2015)
Echo is a Grimm-worthy tale of an extraordinary harmonica which, if passed along when the time is right, will break a curse and fulfill a prophecy. That harmonica weaves together the three seemingly unconnected stories of a young aspiring conductor who sets
In this solid teen sci-fi mystery, Kaufman and Spooner have created a plausible world of danger, intrigue, and teen romance. Lilac, the snooty daughter of the most influential man in the stratosphere is stuck with heartthrob and military hero Tarver when their escape pod lands on a strange planet. All are strong in their own way as they struggle to survive amid increasingly odd circumstances. Check the Blue Willow Bookshop website for upcoming events and author signings:www.bluewillowbookshop.com march 2015 . houston family magazine . 51
onthego
calendar of events
Tour de Houston.
Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.
15 The Health Museum
march 1
by karen neely
sunday
sunday garden photography day rienzi.
Grab your camera and enjoy shooting in Rienzi’s gardens while spring is in full bloom. All ages. Free. 1-5pm. Rienzi Gardens. 1406 Kirby Dr., Houston. www.mfah.org/calendar.
houston rockets 3rd annual dog walk benefiting hermann park conservancy.
Dog Walk will feature a picturesque 1-mile walk around McGovern Lake and the Jones Reflection Pool followed by an official post-event party. 52 . houston family magazine . march 2015
All ages. $35. 8-9:30 am. Lake Plaza at Hermann Park. 6104 Hermann Park Dr., Houston. www.nba.com/rockets/ thedogwalk.
sunday family zone + studio.
Spend some time with the friendly family educators: sit on a pillow and read, sketch a work of art and join an investigation of an artwork. All ages. $15 adult, $10 senior, $7.50 child age 13-18 (children 12 and under free). 1pm-4pm. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Beck Building, 5601 Main Street, Houston. Law Building, 1001 Bissonnet, Houston. 713-639-7300. www.mfah.org.
all things considered.
The Lone Star Symphonic Band will be performing a spring concert titled “All Things Considered.” All ages. $5.50. 4 pm. CrossPoint Community Church, 700 South Westgreen, Katy, TX. www.lssb.org.
2
monday
movies houstonians love-being there.
A sheltered, simpleminded gardener (Peter Sellers) is mistaken for an aristocrat when he loses his job after his employer dies-introduced by Robert Earle Keen. Adults. $9. 7 pm. Museum of Fine Arts, Law Building.
3
7
family faves march 3-22
houston livestock show and rodeo
Come out and enjoy one of the biggest events in Houston full of excitement, a carnival, world class food, music and one of the top rodeos in the country.
march 7
dance and learn at the health museum
Houston Ballet Education and Outreach performs dance and learn classes. indicates family fave pick www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
onthego toddler playtime.
1001 Bissonnet, Houston. www.mfah.org.
Unstructured play for toddlers 1736 months and their caregivers. Free and open to the public. 11:30 a.m. Central Library-KIDS, 500 McKinney, 77002, 832-3931313, www.houstonlibrary.org.
mondays with mommy.
Mondays with Mommy takes children on a monthly fun, educational journey while utilizing music and movement. Ages 0-5. Free. 10 am. LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch. 23501 Cinco Ranch Boulevard, Katy. www.lacenterra.com.
toddler time.
A fun program for younger children. Ages 18mos.-3yrs. Free. 10:15am & 11am. Katy Library. 5414 Franz Rd., Katy. 281-391-3509. www.hcpl.net.
baby bounce.
An active storytime for infants. Ages 3-18mos. Free. 10:15am. Katy Library. 5414 Franz Rd., Katy. 281-391-3509. www.hcpl.net.
baby time.
Stories, songs, and playtime for babies 6-18 months, and their caregivers. 10:30 a.m. Free and open to the public. Central Library, 500 McKinney, 77002, 832-393-1313. www.houstonlibrary.org.
preschool storytime.
Stories, songs and crafts for children ages 3-5 years old and their caregivers. 1 p.m. Free and open to the public. Central Library, 500 McKinney, 77002. 832-393-1313. www.houstonlibrary.org.
toddler time.
Stories, songs, crafts and playtime for toddlers. Ages 18-36mos. Free. 11:30am. Central Library. 500 McKinney St., Houston. 832-393-1313. www.houstonlibrary.org.
coram deo preparatory academy informational meeting.
Focus on the Family describes NAUMS (National Association of University Model Schools) as “An intentional home school/ private school blend that specifically assigns education curriculum to both the home and classroom (first Monday of every month). Adults. 7-8:30 pm. Free. Church of the Holy Apostles. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
preschool story time.
houston livestock show & rodeo
Come out and enjoy one of the biggest events in Houston full of excitement, a carnival, world class food, music and one of the top rodeos in the country. See March 3. Courtesy of the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. 1225 West Grand Parkway South, Katy, TX 77494. 832-607-1526 or https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ coram-deo-information-meeting.
3
tuesday
houston livestock show and rodeo.
Come out and enjoy one of the biggest events in Houston full of excitement, a carnival, world class food, music and one of the top rodeos in the country. All ages. $18+. NRG Park. One Reliant Park, Houston. For carnival hours and event times visit: www.rodeohouston.com.
free afternoon at the houston zoo.
The Houston Zoo offers free admission to its guests on the first Tuesday of each month, September through May. All ages. Free. 2pm-7pm (last entry at 6pm). The Houston Zoo. 6200 Hermann Dr., Houston. 713-533-6500 or www.houstonzoo.org.
jump session for kids with special needs.
On the first Tuesday of every month, Sky High Sports turns off the music and dials down the distractions for the comfort of special-needs kids and their families and friends. All ages. $5 (parent or guardian free). 3pm-6pm. Sky High Sports. 10510 Westview Dr., Houston. 713-464-5867 or http://hou.jumpskyhigh.com.
open door.
Open Door is an arts and crafts program offered at Crosspoint Church on Tuesday mornings. All ages. $15 registration fee. 9am-12pm. Crosspoint Church. 4601 Bellaire Blvd., Bellaire. 713-668-2319 or www.cpointchurch.org.
toddler yoga.
Toddler Yoga is a fun, active way to interact with your child as they become a lot more mobile. For children under 3 years of age. 10:30 a.m. Free and open to the public. Central Library, 500 McKinney, 77002, 832-3931313. www.houstonlibrary.org.
Read books, sing songs and do a craft project. Ages 3-6. Free. 10:30am. Northwest Branch Library. 11355 Regency Green Dr., Cypress. 281-890-2665. www.hcpl.net.
4
wednesday
sketching in the galleries at rienzi.
Artists of all ages are welcome to draw from 18th and 19th-century decorative arts objects during Rienzi’s open sketching hours on All ages. Wednesdays. 1-4:30pm. $8. 1406 Kirby Dr., Houston. www.mfah.org/calendar.
club hispano de libros/ spanish book club.
On the first Wednesday of every month, a group of Spanish-speaking adults get together to discuss a chosen book. Adults. Free. 6pm. Katy Library. 5414 Franz Rd., Katy. 281-391-3509.www.hcpl.net.
legal line-free legal advice.
The Houston Bar Association offers free legal advice over the phone through LegalLine. Adults. Free. 5pm-9pm. 713-759-1133 (only during time specified). www.hba.org/ services/legalline.
legos and duplos at the library.
Join our block party Wednesday and show us your creations! LEGOS and DUPLOS provided. march 2015 . houston family magazine . 53
Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley at Main Street Theater. Pictured is Michael Chiavone as Flat Stanley. Photos by Kaitlyn Walker.
3 p.m. Free and open to the public Central Library, 500 McKinney, 77002. 832-393-1313, www.houstonlibrary.org.
nature story time.
centerstage HOUSTON IS RICH WITH OPPORTUNITIES TO SEE FAMILYFRIENDLY THEATER PERFORMANCES. HERE IS A SAMPLING OF WHAT’S AVAILABLE THIS MONTH. PRESENTATIONS ARE FOR ALL AGES UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED.
The Wizard of Oz The Company OnStage The classic and beloved tale of Young Dorothy who lives on a farm in Kansas with her Auntie Em, Uncle Henry, and her little dog Toto. Feb. 8-Mar. 21, Saturdays 11 am & 1:30 pm See website for ticket prices The Company OnStage. 536 Westbury Square, Houston. 713-726-1219. www.companyonstage.org.
Girls Night: The Musical Stages Repertory Theatre This touching and hilarious ‘tell-it-like-it-is’ musical takes audiences on a journey into the lives of five friends as they re-live the past, celebrate the present, and look to the future on a wild and hilarious night out .... Adults. Feb. 11-Mar. 22 Sat. see website for show times Tickets: $21+ Stages Repertory Theatre. 3201 Allen Pkwy., Houston. 713-527-0123. www.stagestheatre.com.
Cirque De Solei presents Amaluna Sam Houston Race Park Amaluna invites the audience to a mysterious island governed by Goddesses and guided by the cycles of the moon. Feb. 12-Mar. 22, see website for showtimes • Tickets: $37+ Sam Houston Race Park. 7575 N. Sam Houston Parkway West, Houston. www.shrp.com/2014-CIRQUE.html.
“Take Time to Dance: A Tribute to Lynette Mason Gregg.” The Bay Area Houston Ballet Theater The Bay Area Houston Ballet Theater will pay tribute to its founder Lynette Mason Gregg in a retrospective performance of dance. All ages. Mar. 1, 2pm • Tickets: $25 - $35. University of Houston - Clear Lake’s Bayou Theatre. 2700 Bay Area Blvd. Houston. 281-480-1617. www.bahbt.org.
Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley Main Street Theater Join Stanley Lambchop’s on his exciting musical adventure as he learns that heroes come in all shapes and sizes.
Story time may involve visits with live animals, puppets, short nature walks in the park, crafts or songs, in addition to ageappropriate nature-related stories. Preschool-age children and their caregivers. Free. 4pm. Nature Discovery Center. 7112 Newcastle St., Bellaire. 713-667-6550. www.naturediscoverycenter.org.
ecokids class-turtles.
Classes include a natural history lesson, music, story, craft, demonstrations and an outdoor activity. Reservations required. Ages 3-6. $8. 9:30am-11:30am. Armand Bayou Nature Center. 8500 Bay Area Blvd., Pasadena. 281-474-2551, ext. 10. www.abnc.org.
tadpoles club.
This interactive program introduces preschool-aged children to nature with animals, puppets, short walks, crafts and stories. Parent must accompany child; no younger or older siblings. Ages 3 & 4. Free. 10am or 1pm. Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center. 20634 Kenswick Dr., Humble. 281-446-8588. www.hcp4.net.
mommy mingle.
Bring your little ones to Tot*Spot (the exclusive exhibit for children 35 months and under), on the first Wednesday of the month, and enjoy free coffee and snacks. Ages 35 mos and younger with adult. Free with general admission ($9, $8 senior age 65+, children under 1 free). 10am12pm. Children’s Museum of Houston. 1500 Binz, Houston. 713-535-7238 or ldungus@ cmhouston.org. www.cmhouston.org.
twelve moments of spirituality and healing.
Experience the contemplative 54 . houston family magazine . march 2015
side of the world’s great religious traditions with guided meditations offering an opportunity for healing and spiritual development. All ages. $10 suggested donation. 12pm-1pm. Rothko Chapel. 3900 Yupon St., Houston. 713-524-9839. www.rothkochapel.org.
teen game frenzy.
Come unwind after a long, stressful day of school. Play video games, eat snacks and have fun. Teens. Free. 4:30pm. Northwest Branch Library. 1355 Regency Green Dr., Cypress. 281-8902665. www.hcpl.net.
baby giggles.
Sing songs and learn movements to various children’s rhymes. Ages 0-11mos. (nonwalkers). Free. 1pm. Northwest Branch Library. 1355 Regency Houston.
baby wiggles.
Join us for songs, fingerplays and playtime. Ages 12-18 mos (walkers). Free. 2pm. Northwest Branch Library. 1355 Regency Houston.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3.
5
thursday
happy hour thursdays.
Bring your friends to a museum-style happy hour! Adults. Free admission on Thursdays. 6-8pm. Museum of Fine Arts, Beck Building. 5601 Main Street, Houston. www.mfah.org.
dr. arnaud desbiez, giant armadillo researcher at the houston zoo.
Come and hear about what is being done to save this incredible species from extinction. All ages. Free. 7-8 pm. Brown Education Center, Houston Zoo. 6200 Hermann Park Dr., Houston. www.houstonzoo.org.
blue willow bookshop story time.
Bring your child to Blue Willow www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
onthego to enjoy stories, songs and an art activity. Toddlers & preschoolers. Free. 10am. Blue Willow Bookshop. 14532 Memorial Dr., Houston. 281-497-8675. www.bluewillowbookshop.com.
museum free family night - children’s museum of houston.
All admission fees are waived and families are able to come to the museum and experience everything it has to offer. All ages. Free ($3 parking in garage). 5pm-8pm. Children’s Museum of Houston. 1500 Binz St., Houston. 713-535-7264. www.cmhouston.org.
holocaust museum houston free thursdays.
Visitors to the Holocaust Museum Houston enjoy free general admission. All ages. Free. 2pm-5pm.
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
Holocaust Museum Houston. 5401 Caroline St., Houston. 713-942-8000. www.hmh.org.
free thursday at museum of fine arts, houston.
Enjoy a full day of free activities every Thursday. All ages. Free. 10am-9pm. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. 1001 Bissonnet, Houston. 713-639-7300. www.mfah.org.
free family thursday at the health museum.
Visitors enjoy free general admission. All ages. Free. 2pm-5pm. The Health Museum. 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston. 713-521-1515. www.mhms.org.
tai chi by the reflecting pool.
Tai Chi is a traditional Chinese martial art whose physical
practice offers general health benefits, stress management, increased energy, and improved physical mobility. Adults and older children. $10 suggested donation. 5-6pm. Rothko Chapel. 3900 Yupon St. 713-524-9839.
table top game night.
This event provides children and parents an opportunity to play board games, card games, strategy games and other types of games with one another, to try out new games before they buy them, and to make lasting friendships. All ages. Free. 6-9pm. Bad Wolf Trading Company. 16911 Old Louetta Road #3, Houston, TX 77070. 832-717-4298 or www.badwolftrading.com.
first thursday sketching.
On the first Thursday of every
month, sketch works of art in the museum galleries during this informal program; an MFAH teaching artist is on hand with paper, pencils, and clipboards to get you started. All ages. Free. Museum hours. The Museum of Fine Arts Houston, Beck Building. 601 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002. 713-639-7300. www.mfah.org.
junior scientists.
Junior Scientists will explore the natural world and examine a variety of science themes through hands-on investigations and experiments and in lessons enriched with crafts, games and more! Ages 6-10. $20. 4pm-5:30pm. Nature Discovery Center. 7112 Newcastle St., Bellaire. 713-667-6550. www.naturediscoverycenter.org.
march 2015 . houston family magazine . 55
centerstage Sundays beginning Mar. 1, Special Spring Break performances: March 9 - 13 & March 16 - 20, 2015, Apr. 3, see website for showtimes. Tickets: $15-$17 Talento Bilingue De Houston. 333 S. Jensen Dr., Houston. 713-524-6706. MainStreetTheater.com.
Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day A.D. Players In this delightful adaptation of her popular book, Judith Viorst sets Alexander’s rather trying life to music and brings to the stage one of America’s feistiest characters. Mar. 3-22, Wed-Sat 10:30 am, Sun. 2:30pm. See website for additional dates/times. Tickets: $12 A.D. Players. 2710 W. Alabama, Houston. 713-526-2721. www.adplayers.org.
The Great Gatsby The Grand 1894 Opera House F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby – brings The Roaring Twenties to life for a new generation of theatre-goers. Mar. 7, 8pm • Tickets: $22 The Grand 1894 Opera House. 2020 Postoffice Street, Galveston. 800-821-1894. www.thegrand.com.
Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat Theatre Under The Stars Tim Rice & Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is the irresistible family musical about the trials and triumphs of Joseph, Israel’s favorite son. Mar. 17-29, see website for showtimes. Tickets: $25-$124. The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. Sarofim Hall. 800 Bagby St., 56 . houston family magazine . march 2015
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3.
6
friday
ecokids class-trees.
Classes include a natural history lesson, music, story, craft, demonstrations and an outdoor activity. Reservations required. Ages 3-6. $8. 9:30am-11:30am. Armand Bayou Nature Center. 8500 Bay Area Blvd., Pasadena. 281-474-2551, ext. 10. www.abnc.org.
baby boot camp’s freebie friday.
The first Friday of every month, Baby Boot Camp is free to moms with stroller-aged children. Free. 9:30-10:30am. Memorial City Mall (by the entrance to Beck’s Prime) 303 Memorial City Way, Houston, TX 77024. summer.maura@babybootcamp.com.
azalea trail.
fitness in the plaza.
second blessings – children’s consignment sale.
Start your Friday mornings off with Fitness in the Plaza, featuring Boot Camp with Jon Hood from Fleet Physique followed by Zumba taught by a professional instructor. Adults. Free. Boot Camp 9am10am, Zumba 10am-11am. Sugar Land Town Square. 2711 Town Center Blvd., Sugar Land. 281-276-6000 or www.sugarlandtownsquare.com.
art walk on main.
Presented the first Friday of each month by the Main Street Business Association, this event features the works of local and regional artists displayed at businesses in the Main Street district. All ages. Free. 6pm-9pm. Main Street Merchants. Main Street, La Porte. 281-9073140. http://laportetx.gov.
azalea trail.
These showy flowers flourish at seven Houston locations in varying shades of pink, purple, white, red, and yellow and are a magnificent sight to behold. All ages. $5+. 11 am-5 pm. Various locations. 713-523-2483. www.riveroaksgardenclub.org.
Enjoy the beautiful gardens of the two MFAH house museums—Bayou Bend and Rienzi—as part of Houston’s annual Azalea Trail. See March 5. Photo courtesy of GHCVB.
The MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) a group at StoneBridge Church holds a community wide Children’s Consignment sale every Spring called Second Blessings. All ages. 9am-noon; 3pm-6pm. StoneBridge Church. One StoneBridge Church Drive, The Woodlands. www.gostonebridge.com/ secondblessings.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3.
7
saturday
retired rocket scientist to share memories of apollo launches.
Don Cooper will share his experiences creating the technology that helped launch Apollo 11 in 1969, and the efforts that his team went through to successfully bring the Apollo 13 crew home safely in 1970. All ages. Free. 2pm. Missouri City Branch Library. 1530 Texas Parkway, Missouri City. 281-238-2100.
yoga.
A volunteer-taught yoga session to relax and stretch you. Free. 2:30 pm. Katy Library. 5414 Franz Rd., Katy. 281-391-3509.www.hcpl.net.
BYOF at IKEA.
BYOF (Bring Your Own Friends) Day, an in-store event that offers IKEA fans and their friends a special shopping experience, including exclusive deals, in-store activities, prizes and giveaways! Free. All ages. Store opens at 10 am. IKEA. 7810 Katy Freeway, Houston. IKEA-USA.com/ Houston.
clear lake gem, jewelry and mineral show.
Come out to see and learn about rocks, gems, fossils and Geology! All ages. $7. 10 am-6 pm. Pasadena Convention Center. 7902 Fairmont Parkway, Pasadena. www.clgms.org.
crawfish festival in the heights.
For a decade the Greater Heights Area Chamber of Commerce has held an annual community Crawfish Festival in the Heights. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
onthego All ages. Free admission. 11 am- 6:30 pm. The Heights. 411 W. 20th St. Houston. www.heightschamber.com/ crawfish-festival.
galveston beach parks open.
While Seawall beaches are open year-round, several of the island’s public beach parks – Stewart Beach, East Beach and the West End’s Pocket Parks 1, 2 and 3 – will open for the 2015 beach season, offering a variety of special amenities. All ages. $5 admission. Various locations, Galveston. www.galvestonbeachinfo.com.
young writers workshop.
Houston’s only free writing workshop for kids, presented by HPL Express, Writers in the Schools and Discovery Green. All ages. Free. 10:30am-11:30am. Discovery Green. 1500 McKinney St.,
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
Houston. 713-400-7336 or www.discoverygreen.com.
first saturday arts market.
First Saturday Arts Market is a monthly outdoor fine arts event featuring the works of dozens of visual artists and showcasing paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry and handcrafted items. All ages. Free admission. 11am-6pm. Wind Water Gallery parking lot. 548 West 19th St., Houston. 713-8021213 or www.firstsaturday artsmarket.com.
recycling saturdays.
Bring your glass, paper, plastic and aluminum to a recycling station at Discovery Green. All ages. Free. 11am-2pm. Discovery Green. 1500 McKinney St., Houston. 713-400-7336. www.discoverygreen.com.
hands on houston.
Hands-On Houston is a free craft-activity open house on the first Saturday of every month. A teaching artist will demonstrate a craft related to the current exhibitions; materials are provided. All ages. Free. 11am-3pm. Houston Center for Contemporary Craft 4848 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002, USA – Houston. 713-529-4848 http://www.crafthouston.org.
galveston beach hike.
Beach hikes start at the park’s Nature Center; we’ll orient ourselves, and then move to the beach to look for beach treasures and explore why this place is so special. All ages. Free to park visitors ($5/adult entrance fee, anyone under 13 years is free). 10-11am. Galveston Island State Park 14901 FM-3005 Galveston, TX.
http://www.galveston.com/ calendarofevents or Lisa.Reznicek@tpwd.texas.gov.
azalea trail. See March 6. houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3. second blessings – children’s consignment sale. See March 7, 8am-11am
(half-price day).
8
sunday
houston kosher chili cookoff.
Join the Jewish community for a fun-filled day of festivities and a kosher chili competition during the 5th Annual Houston Kosher Chili Cookoff. All ages. $6-$10. 11:30 am-3 pm. ERJCC. 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston. www.houstonkosherchilicookoff.com.
march 2015 . houston family magazine . 57
centerstage Houston. 713-558-8887. www.tuts.com.
Blockbuster Film Scores Houston Symphony Travel with Mike and the orchestra to Hollywood to experience the sounds of the past 30 years of great motion picture scores. Mar. 5-8, Th. (at Sugarland Baptist Church) 8pm, Fri-Sat. 8pm, Sun. 7:30pm Tickets: $25-$134 Jones Hall. 615 Louisiana St., Houston. 713-2247575. www.houston symphony.org.
Star Wars and More Houston Symphony Join us for an intergalactic Saturday morning as the music of Star Wars invades Jones Hall. Mar. 7, 10 & 11:30 am Tickets: $29 Jones Hall. 615 Louisiana St., Houston. 713-2247575. www.houston symphony.org.
Once Broadway at The Hobby Center ONCE tells the enchanting tale of a Dublin street musician who’s about to give up on his dream when a beautiful young woman takes a sudden interest in his haunting love songs. Mar. 10-15, see website for showtimes. Tickets: $30 The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. Sarofim Hall. 800 Bagby St., Houston. 713-558-8887. www.thehobbycenter.org.
second sunday pickers.
Visitors are welcome to bring an instrument to join in the fun or enjoy the folk music from the audience. All ages. Free. 2pm-4pm. Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center. 20634 Kenswick Dr., Humble. 281-446-8588. www.hcp4.net
clear lake gem, jewelry and mineral show. See March 7, 10 am-5pm.
sunday family zone + studio. See March 1. azalea trail. See March 6. houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3.
9
galveston beach parks open. While Seawall beaches are open year-round, several of the island’s public beach parks will open for the 2015 beach season. See March 7. Photo courtesy of Galveston CVB.
monday
spring break at bayou bend.
Enjoy a wide range of child-friendly activities in the gardens, the mansion, and the Lora Jean Kilroy Visitor Center. All ages. $10 admission. Check website for times. Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens. 6003 Memorial Dr., Houston. www.mfah.org.
teen tech week.
Come spend an hour and learn the basics of computer programming! Ages 12-18. Free. Various Harris County Libraries. www.hcpl.org.
baby bounce. See March 2. baby time. See March 2.
All ages. $20+. 6 pm. Toyota Center. 1510 Polk St., Houston. www.houstontoyotacenter.com.
713-522-1138. www.cmhouston.org.
teen tech week.
The Katy Branch Library hosts motivational discussions in Spanish the second Wednesday of every month. Free. 6pm. Katy Library. 5414 Franz Rd., Katy. 281-391-3509.www.hcpl.net.
See March 9.
open door. See March 3. toddler yoga. See March 3. toddler playtime. See March 3.
toddler time. See March 3. preschool story time. See March 3.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3.
preschool storytime. See March 2.
spring break at bayou bend. See March 9.
“say please and thank you.”
toddler time. See March 2.
11
Discovery Series at the Hobby Center say please and thank you is a multi-disciplinary production choreographed by Jane Weiner, featuring Hope Stone Dance Company along with other local and national talent.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3.
soda geyser showdown!
58 . houston family magazine . march 2015
10
tuesday
SWAC basketball tournament.
The East vs. West division leaders compete for the SWAC Conference Title.
wednesday
The Children’s Museum of Houston will be erupting with fun as it hosts the largest soda geyser event Houston has never seen! All ages. $10 museum admission. 11 am-2 pm. Children’s Museum of Houston. 1500 Binz St., Houston.
superacion personal.
ecokids class-underground animals.
Classes include a natural history lesson, music, story, craft, demonstrations and an outdoor activity. Reservations required. Ages 3-6. $8. 9:30am-11:30am. Armand Bayou Nature Center. 8500 Bay Area Blvd., Pasadena. 281-474-2551, ext. 10. www.abnc.org.
SWAC basketball tournament.
See March 10, 12 pm.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3. spring break at bayou bend. See March 9. sketching in the galleries at rienzi. See March 4.
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
onthego teen tech week. See March 9.
legos and duplos at the library. See March 4. baby giggles. See March 4. baby wiggles. See March 4. nature story time. See March 4.
tadpoles club. See March 4. teen game frenzy. See March 4.
12
thursday
katy gardening club.
On the 2nd Thursday of the month, join other gardeners in your area to learn new ways to grow. Free. 11am. Katy Library. 5414 Franz Rd., Katy. 281-391-3509.www.hcpl.net.
story time with og.
Come join us as we read and sing along with Og, the bookworm. Ages 3-6. Free. 9:30 am-10:15 am. Lone Star College Library. 9191 Barker-Cypress, Houston. Please RSVP by calling Primrose School of Copperfield at 281-858-5600.
grace school theater arts presents shrek the musical, jr.
It’s a “big bright beautiful world” for everyone’s favorite ogre in Shrek Jr., based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film. All ages. Free. 10 am-11 am. Grace Presbyterian Church. 10221 Ella Lee Lane, Houston. www.graceschool.org.
SWAC basketball tournament.
See March 10, 12 pm.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3. spring break at bayou bend. See March 9. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
centerstage Mar.11-13, 9:30 am & 11:30 am • Free The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts. Zilkha Hall. 800 Bagby St., Houston. 713-558-8887. www.thehobbycenter.org.
60th Anniversary Concert with Joyce DiDonato Houston Grand Opera In honor of Houston Grand Opera’s 60th anniversary season, join us in the Cullen theater for a special concert featuring opera super star and Houston favorite, Joyce DiDonato with Patrick Summers, the HGO Orchestra, and HGO Studio Artists. Mar. 19, 7:30pm Tickets: $40-$150 Cullen Theater, Wortham Theater Center. 500 Texas Ave., Houston. 713-228-6737. www.houstongrandopera.org.
What I Learned in Paris The Ensemble Theatre The tale of a divorcee sweeping into town, from her self-assuring trip to Paris, just as her ambitious ex-husband is trying to avoid a scandal that could upset his chances for being named city attorney. Rated PG. Mar. 19-Apr. 12 Tickets: $26-$44 The Ensemble Theatre. 3535 Main St., Houston. 713-520-0055. www.ensemblehouston.org.
Hillary Cole Over the Rainbow: A Tribute to the Musical Artistry of Judy Garland Society for the Performing Arts The Jones Hall stage will come to life as vocalist Hilary Kole conjures the spirit and beauty of the legendary Judy Garland in stunning arrangements, Mar. 27, 7 pm & 9:30 pm Tickets: $60+ Jones Hall 614 Louisiana Houston. 713-227-4772. www.spahouston.org. march 2015 . houston family magazine . 59
Beyond the X-Ray at The Health Museum. Photo courtesy of The Health Museum.
teen tech week. See March 9.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3.
free family thursday at the health museum.
spring break at bayou bend. See March 9.
See March 5.
tai chi by the reflecting pool.
nowexhibiting EDUCATION CAN BE FUN WHEN KIDS GET UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH THE DIVERSIFIED, CULTURAL, ARTISTIC, HISTORICAL AND CONTEMPORARY EXHIBITS AVAILABLE AT HOUSTON MUSEUMS AND ENRICHMENT CENTERS.
Houston Museum of Natural Science Shark! See what it’s like to get up close and personal with sharks at the live shark touch tank, track great white sharks swimming in the Gulf of Mexico in real time, and see what’s happening with sharks all over the world through amazing conservation efforts led by top marine biologists. Aug. 29, 2014-Mar. 22 • Tickets: $25 adult, $20 child and senior 62+ Museum Hours: Mon.-Sun. 9am-5pm Admission: $20 adult, $15 child (3-11), senior (62+) and college student Houston Museum of Natural Science. 5555 Hermann Park Dr., Houston. 713-639-4629. www.hmns.org.
Houston Museum of Natural Science – Sugar Land Crystals of India This exhibition features a never-before-seen collection of almost 50 of the most beautiful and most perfectly formed natural mineral crystals ever found anywhere in the world. The crystals originate from India’s Deccan Plateau, a large geologic formation that comprises most of the southern part of the country.
14
blue willow bookshop story time.
hope stone dance performance.
See March 5.
free thursday at museum of fine arts, houston. See March 5.
museum free family night - children’s museum of houston. See March 5.
holocaust museum family free thursdays. See March 5.
table top game night. See March 5.
junior scientists. See March 5.
13
friday
ecokids class-underground plants.
Dec. 12, 2014-May 10 Museum Hours: Thurs. & Fri. 9am-3pm, Sat. 9am-5pm and Sun. 12pm-5pm Admission: $12 adult, $9 child and senior (62+) Houston Museum of Natural Science – Sugar Land. 13016 University Blvd., Sugar Land. 281-313-2277. www.hmns.org.
The Health Museum
kid’s night out.
Mar. 9-21
Beyond the X-Ray Explore the world of medical imaging, spanning the ways doctors look inside the human body without surgery and highlighting the latest advances in the field. Jan. 17-May 3
saturday
Join the dancers from Hope Stone as they tell a story through dance. All ages. Free. 1pm and 3pm. Contemporary Arts Museum. 5216 Montrose Blvd., Houston. www.hopestoneinc.org.
“life of a buffalo soldier.”
Dressed in traditional Buffalo Soldiers’ attire, representatives from Texas Parks & Wildlife will explain what Buffalo Soldiers were and how they got the name. All ages. Free. 12-2pm. Cinco Ranch Branch Library. 2620 Commercial Center Blvd., Katy. 281-395-1311.
6th annual shaving cream pi(e) fight-11th annual pi day
March 14 is π (Pi) Day and it’s also Albert Einstein’s birthday! All ages. $10. 1:59 pm. Children’s Museum of Houston. 1500 Binz St., Houston. 713522-1138. www.cmhouston.org.
free practice SAT/ACT tests.
Kid’s Night Out has tons of games, arts and crafts and extra special activities each month. Ages 4-10. $30 (residents). 6-10pm. Woodlands Township Recreation Center. 5310 Research Forest Dr., The Woodlands. www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov.
Firat Educational Solutions hosts practice tests for the SAT/ACT every second Saturday of every month. In addition, Firat is now accepting students to take fulllength practice high school entrance exams. Registration required. Ages 7th-12th grade. Free. 8:30am-12:30pm. Firat Educational Solutions. 3701 W. Alabama St., Ste. 390, Houston. 713-871-1048. www.firateducation.com.
SWAC basketball tournament.
second saturday buffalo bayou boat rides.
See March 10, 12 pm. 60 . houston family magazine . march 2015
See March 6.
See March 5.
Classes include a natural history lesson, music, story, craft, demonstrations and an outdoor activity. Reservations required. Ages 3-6. $8. 9:30am-11:30am. Armand Bayou Nature Center. 8500 Bay Area Blvd., Pasadena. 281-474-2551, ext. 10. www.abnc.org.
Health and Wellness Weeks Health & Wellness Weeks are back this spring break at The Health Museum and full of tips, tricks and hands-on fun to get you moving.
fitness in the plaza.
Escape from the city and enjoy the www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
onthego visiting the Hanson House on the Martyn Farm site. All ages. Free. 1-4pm. Armand Bayou Nature Center. 8500 Bay Area Boulevard, Pasadena, TX 77507. 866-417-3818.
BCO east side exploration.
joseph and the technicolor dreamcoat pressented by theatre under the stars. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is the irresistible family musical about the trials and triumphs of Joseph, Israel’s favorite son. See Center Stage on page 54. Photo by Daniel Brodie.
We’ll meet at Fonde Park and get a nice walk in, then go over and scout out Smither Park and possibly stumble across one of the coolest art stops you’ve ever seen, The Orange Show! All ages. Free. 10 am-1 pm. Fonde Park. 5500 Carrolton St., Houston. www.BayouCity Outdoors.com
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3. sunday family zone + studio. See March 1.
16 cool breeze as you glide along the bayou’s waters. Look for graceful herons, jumping fish, and even the occasional alligator sunning on the bayou’s banks. Ages 4+. 10am-2pm (30-min. rides). $7 adult, $5 child (cash only). Sabine Promenade 150 Sabine Street, Houston. 77007. 713-752-0314. info@buffalobayou.org. www.buffalobayou.org.
SWAC basketball tournament.
rice village flea.
galveston beach hike.
Vendors vary monthly and can range from glass artisans and antique dealers to chocolatiers and coffee merchants. All ages. Free admission. 11am-6pm. Rice Village. 5504 Morningside Dr., Houston. 917-664-5622. flea@thericevillage.org.
lifetime athletics boot camp demo.
Join Life Time Athletic for their Boot Camp demo on the second Saturday of each month. All ages. Free. 10-11am. City Centre 800 Town and Country Boulevard, Houston. 713-629-5200. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
See March 10, 2 pm.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3. young writers workshop. See March 7.
recycling saturdays. See March 7. See March 7.
15
sunday
tour de houston.
Annual Bike Ride to Raise Funds for City’s Reforestation Projects. All ages. Registration fee (see website). Check in begins 6 am. 901 Bagby, Houston. 832.393.0868. www.tourdehouston.org.
third sundays in nature.
Hike the trails with a trained naturalist interpreter, view live reptiles, and relive the 1895 cultural history of the area by
monday
dance and learn at the health museum.
Houston Ballet Education and Outreach performs dance and learn classes that explore the human body through fun and engaging movements. All ages. $7-$9. 10am-10:45 am. The Health Museum. 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston. www.thehealthmuseum.org.
button battle.
It’s a video game war! Ages 12-18. Free. All day. Kingwood Branch Library. 4400 Bens View Lane, Kingwood. www.hcpl.net.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3. spring break at bayou bend. See March 9. baby bounce. See March 2.
baby time. See March 2. preschool storytime. See March 2.
toddler time. See March 2.
nowexhibiting Museum Hours: Tues.-Sat. 9am-5pm and Sun. 12pm-5pm Admission: $8 adult, $6 child (3-12) and senior (65+) The Health Museum. 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston. 713-521-1515. www.mhms.org.
Lawndale Art Center Tongue and Groove Touching on ideas of etiquette and femininity, Erin Stafford’s studio practice investigates the bygone era of social graces and ritualistic propriety, while also engaging the viewer with ideas of fantasy, desires and delight. Museum Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10am-5pm and Sat. 12pm-5pm Admission: Free Lawndale Art Center. 4912 Main St., Houston. 713-528-5858. www.lawndaleartcenter.org.
Holocaust Museum Houston The Art of Gaman The artistic creations of the Japanese Americans incarcerated in the U.S. during World War II—a celebration of the nobility of the human spirit in adversity—are the focus of this new exhibit. Jan. 30-Sept. 20 Museum Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm and Sat.-Sun. 12pm-5pm Admission: $12; $8 senior age 65+; college-level with valid school ID, students age 6-18 and children under 6 free Holocaust Museum Houston. 5401 Caroline St., Houston. 713-942-8000. www.hmh.org.
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Selections from the Museum’s Collection: Modern and Contemporary Art Conceived to highlight the Museum’s exceptional march 2015 . houston family magazine . 61
nowexhibiting holdings and showcasing works new to Houston audiences, this installation comprises major paintings and sculptures that span the early 20th century to the present. Mar. 4, 2014-May 3
Silver: An American Art Selections from the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston This exhibit showcases important new additions to the museum’s collection of silver, all created in America between 1870 and 1960. Aug. 30, 2014-Apr. 5
Line: Making the Mark With the advent of Modernism in the 20th century, line became its own definitive subject for artists, who no longer used it merely for representational purposes. Dec. 12, 2014-Mar. 22 Tickets: $23 adult, $18 child (13-18), senior (65+) and student (19+) (children 12 and younger free); $5 audio tour Museum Hours: Tues.-Wed. 10am-5pm, Thurs. 10am9pm, Fri.-Sat. 10am-7pm and Sun. 12:15pm-7pm Admission: $15 adult; $10 senior (65+), $7.50 child (13-18) and student (19+) (children 12 and under free); discounted tickets may be purchased online The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Beck Building, 5601 Main St., Houston, and Law Building, 1001 Bissonnet, Houston. 713-639-7300. www.mfah.org.
Contemporary Arts Museum, Houston Mel Chin: Rematch This exhibition is the most expansive survey of Chin’s work to date and a homecoming for one of the city’s most renowned artists. 62 . houston family magazine . march 2015
17
tuesday
WITS at IKEA.
(Writers In The Schools) hosts a FREE children’s creative workshop and kids eat free. 6-7pm. IKEA. 7810 Katy Freeway, Houston. IKEA-USA.com/Houston.
button battle. See March 16.
dance and learn at the health museum. See March 16.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3. spring break at bayou bend. See March 9. open door. See March 3. toddler yoga.
kid’s night out with mad science! Come to the Mad Science Kid’s Lab for radical hands-on science experiments, interactive demonstrations and best of all, every child will make or create an awesome science project to take-home! See March 20. Photo courtesy of Mad Science.
See March 3.
toddler playtime.
legal line-free legal advice. See March 4.
button battle.
legos and duplos at the library. See March 4.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3.
See March 3.
baby giggles. See March 4.
18
baby wiggles.
spring break at bayou bend. See March 9.
See March 3.
toddler time. See March 3.
preschool story time.
wednesday
night (sounds) at the museum.
See March 4.
nature story time.
Learn about the crickets, frogs, birds, and other creatures that make spring such a musical time and why they make such amazing noises. All ages. Free. 6:30-8 pm. Katy Contemporary Arts Museum. 805 Ave., B, Katy. www.katycam.com.
See March 4.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3.
UT brain night at the health museum.
button battle. See March 16.
spring break at bayou bend. See March 9. sketching in the galleries at rienzi. See March 4.
tadpoles club.
See March 16.
free family thursday at the health museum. See March 5.
tai chi by the reflecting pool.
See March 4.
See March 5.
teen game frenzy.
blue willow bookshop story time.
See March 4.
19
thursday
UT Health Neuroscience Research Center is hosting UT Brain Night with brain exercises and games to learn about the body’s most important organ. All ages. $7-$9. 10am-10:45 am. The Health Museum. 1515 Hermann Dr., Houston. www.thehealthmuseum.org.
See March 5.
free thursday at museum of fine arts, houston. See March 5.
museum free family night - children’s museum of houston. See March 5.
holocaust museum family free thursdays. See March 5.
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
onthego table top game night. See March 5.
20
st. patrick’s day events
friday
march mart plant sale.
March Mart is the largest plant sale in the Gulf Coast Region and serves as the major fund raiser for Houston’s only botanic garden. All ages. Free admission. Noon-4pm. 22306 Aldine Westfield Road, Humble. 281-443-8731. www.themercersociety.org.
mommy and me playtime.
Come spend time with your child while interacting with other children and parents. Ages 5 and under only. $2. 9:30-11 am. Lord of Life Lutheran School. 4425 FM 2351, Friendswood. www.lordoflifefriendswood.com.
kid’s night out with mad science!
Come to the Mad Science Kid’s Lab and you will go home with a RAINBOW TUBE! Ages 5-13. $15. 6-7:30pm. Mad Science Kid’s Lab 6300 Westpark, Ste. 500, Houston. 713-663-7669. http://houston.madscience.org/ frinightwkshps.aspx.
gorilla hole.
Gorilla Hole is a highly staffed and a well-organized environment for 5th and 6th graders to monkey around and have a blast. 5th-6th grade. $7. Woodlands Township Recreation Center. 5310 Research Forest Dr., The Woodlands. www.thewoodlands township-tx.gov.
button battle. See March 16.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3. spring break at bayou bend.
56th Annual Houston St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Photo courtesy of Houston St. Patrick’s Parade Commission.
56th Annual Houston St. Patrick’s Day Parade Produced by the Houston St. Patrick’s Parade Commission
Saturday, March 14th, 2015 at Noon • Rain or Shine! The Irish Salute Houston’s First Responders: Number One In Our Hearts Always The Houston St. Patrick’s Parade has always been a FREE event. The two-hour parade has historically been one of the largest in the U.S. and each year includes over 100 entries to delight the Irish and Irish-at-heart. www.hsppc.org
37th Annual 1960 St. Patrick’s Day Parade Sunday, March 15, 2015 at 2pm - Rain or Shine Presented by The 1960 Parade Committee The parade begins at 2 p.m. at the Wells Fargo parking lot at Champions Forest Drive and FM 1960 , and ends at The Concert Pub North at the corner of FM 1960 and Kuykendahl. To prepare for the big event, the road will officially close at 1 p.m., and if all goes as planned, completely reopen around 5 p.m.Revelers should make their way to the 3 .5-mile parade route as early as possible - about 60,000 to 80,000 are expected.The parade benefits Cypress Creek EMS Education Scholarship programs. www.1960parade.com
See March 9.
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
march 2015 . houston family magazine . 63
nowexhibiting Jan. 17-Apr. 19 Museum Hours: Tues.-Wed. & Fri. 10am-7pm, Thurs. 10am-9pm, Sat. 10am-6pm and Sun. 12pm-6pm Admission: Free Contemporary Arts Museum, Houston. 5216 Montrose Blvd., Houston. 713-284-8250. www.camh.org.
The Menil Collection Becoming Modern A Look at the Evolution of Drawing in French Art of the 19th Century. Feb.27-Jun 14 Museum Hours: Wed.-Sun. 11am-7pm Admission: Free The Menil Collection. 1533 Sul Ross St., Houston. 713-525-9400. www.menil.org.
Children’s Museum of Houston Amazingly Immature Based on KLUTZ® Encyclopedia of Immaturity Vol. 1 and 2, KLUTZ® Amazingly Immature will offer you the opportunity to embrace your inner ingenious zaniness while exploring what these behaviors can teach you about science, engineering, math, and literacy. Mar. 7-22
fitness in the plaza. See March 6.
21
saturday
4th annual texas stallions relays.
The 4th Annual Texas Stallions Relays promises to be a fun and exciting event with over 500 youth athletes competing in 3 relays, 8 open running events and 5 field events. All ages. $6 admission. 8:30 am. Magnolia High School, 14350 Farm to Market 1488 Road, Magnolia. www.texasstallionsrelays.com.
run houston! minute maid park.
Run Houston! Minute Maid Park is a running event that includes race distances for athletes of all skill levels, from a kids 1K to a 10K. All ages. $20+. See website for race times. Minute Maid Park. 501 Crawford St., Houston. minutemaidpark.runhouston.com.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3. march mart plant sale. See March 20, 8am-4pm.
button battle. See March 16.
yoga. See March 7. young writers workshop.
NanoDays Discover the secret to these tiny bits of science and the enormous impact they have in technology. Museum Hours: Tues.-Wed. 10am-6pm, Thurs. 10am-8pm, Fri.-Sat. 10am-6pm and Sun. 12pm-6pm Mar. 24-Apr. 1 Admission: $9, $8 senior 65+ (children under 1 free) Children’s Museum of Houston. 1500 Binz, Houston. 713-522-1138. www.cmhouston.org.
64 . houston family magazine . march 2015
See March 7.
recycling saturdays. See March 7.
galveston beach hike. See March 7.
22
sunday
7th annual festival “russian spring celebration”.
The Russian Cultural Center “Our Texas” in collaboration with the bar “Under the Volcano” will organize its 7th annual festival “Russian Spring Celebration”.
4th annual texas stallions relay. The 4th Annual Texas Stallions Relays promises to be a fun and exciting event with over 500 youth athletes competing in 3 relays, 8 open running events and 5 field events. See March 21.
All ages. $10. 2-5 pm. Under the Volcano. 2349 Bissonnet, Houston. www.ourtx.org.
houston livestock show and rodeo. See March 3. sunday family zone + studio. See March 1. sunday garden photography day rienzi. See March 1.
23
monday
“college admissions with less stress.”
A program to help college-bound students and their parents navigate through this process and to position their application in the best light possible. Students 9-11 grade and parents. Free. 7:00 pm. University Branch Library. 4010 University
Blvd in Sugar Land, on the UH campus. 281-633-5100.
sensory friendly day
Sensory Friendly Day is an opportunity for kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and sensory processing differences to explore the Museum. All ages. $5 (pre-registration required). 10 am. Children’s Museum of Houston. 1500 Binz St., Houston. 713-522-1138. www.cmhouston.org.
button battle. See March 16.
baby bounce. See March 2. baby time. See March 2. preschool storytime. See March 2.
toddler time. See March 2 www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
onthego 24
tuesday
button battle. See March 16.
open door. See March 3. toddler yoga. See March 3. toddler playtime. See March 3.
toddler time. See March 3.
preschool story time.
exercise programs, science or cooking themes. Free. Ages 10-12. 4:30-6 pm. 15741 Wallisville Road, Houston. www.hcpl.net.
button battle. See March 16.
sketching in the galleries at rienzi. See March 4.
legos and duplos at the library. See March 4.
See March 3.
baby giggles. See March 4.
25
baby wiggles. See March 4.
wednesday
ecokids class: turkey vulture.
Classes include a natural history lesson, music, story, craft, demonstrations and an outdoor activity. Reservations required. Ages 3-6. $8. 9:30am-11:30am. Armand Bayou Nature Center. 8500 Bay Area Blvd., Pasadena. 281-474-2551, ext. 10. www.abnc.org.
tween time.
Activities include crafts, movies,
nature story time. See March 4.
tadpoles club. See March 4.
teen game frenzy. See March 4.
26
thursday
southwest international in-water boat show.
Visit the largest in-water boat
tomball german heritage festival. Join the fun at this music/street festival with music, food, street vendors, crafts and more. See March 27. Photo courtesy of the Tomball German Heritage Festival. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
march 2015 . houston family magazine . 65
nowexhibiting Asia Society Texas Center Mel Chin: Rematch This exhibition is the most expansive survey of Chin’s work to date and a homecoming for one of the city’s most renowned artists. Jan. 17-Apr. 19 Museum Hours: Tues.-Fri. 11am-6pm and Sat.-Sun. 10am-6pm Admission: $5 (children 12 and under free) Asia Society Texas Center. 1370 Southmore Blvd., Houston. 713-496-9901. www.asiasociety.org/texas.
Project Row Houses Round 41: Process and Action: An Exploration of Ideas Process and Action: An Exploration of Ideas explores the ways in which contemporary artists deal with laborintensive practices by highlighting the artistic process and the labor issues that have influenced their work and inevitably shape a community, like Third Ward, and society at-large. Oct. 18, 2014-Mar. 1 Exhibition Hours: Wed.-Sun. 12pm-5pm Admission: Free Project Row Houses. 2521 Holman St., Houston. 713-526-7662. www.projectrow houses.org.
Czech Center Museum Houston Texas Czechs Rooted in Tradition Presented with PolkaWorks, a non-profit organization whose mission is to highlight cultural traditions through multimedia projects designed to educate and inspire, the exhibition Texas Czechs: Rooted in
show in the Southwest. All ages. $5-$20. 12 pm-7 pm. South Shore Harbour Marina. 2501 South Shore Blvd., League City, TX. www.southwestintlboatshow.com.
button battle. See March 16.
free family thursday at the health museum. See March 5.
tai chi by the reflecting pool. See March 5.
blue willow bookshop story time. See March 5.
free thursday at museum of fine arts, houston.
The spring Night Market will celebrate the opening of The Other Side: Chinese and Mexican Immigration to America. See March 27.
See March 5.
museum free family night - children’s museum of houston. See March 5.
holocaust museum family free thursdays. See March 5.
table top game night. See March 5.
junior scientists. See March 5.
27
friday
bayou city arts festival.
of The Other Side: Chinese and Mexican Immigration to America. All ages. Free. 6:30-9:30 pm. Asia Society Texas. 1370 Southmore Blvd., Houston. www.asiasociety.org.
ecokids class: black vulture.
Classes include a natural history lesson, music, story, craft, demonstrations and an outdoor activity. Reservations required. Ages 3-6. $8. 9:30am-11:30am. Armand Bayou Nature Center. 8500 Bay Area Blvd., Pasadena. 281-474-2551, ext. 10. www.abnc.org.
An arts and entertainment destination for the entire family, the Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park offers a fun filled day of art, entertainment, food, wine and beer featuring the popular Green Mountain Energy Children’s Creative Zone. All ages. $10+. 10 am-6 pm. Memorial Park, Houston. www.artcolonyassociation.org.
critical mass.
night market and exhibition opening.
tomball german heritage festival.
The spring Night Market will celebrate the opening
66 . houston family magazine . march 2015
night market and exhibition opening at asia society texas.
Critical mass is an informal bike group that meets the last Friday of every month to ride around the city as an act to raise awareness and advocate a bicyclefriendly urban environment. All bikes are welcome. All ages. Free. 7:15-11:30pm. Market Square Park. 301 Milam Street, Houston, TX 77002. 713-650-3022.
Join the fun at this music/street festival with music, food, street
vendors, crafts and more. All ages. Free admission. 6 pm-10 pm. Old Town Tomball. 201 S. Elm, Tomball. www.tomballgermanfest.org.
southwest international in-water boat show. See March 26.
button battle. See March 16.
fitness in the plaza. See March 6.
28
saturday
houston children’s festival.
Offering several stages, The Festival is divided into themed Family Adventure Zones and delivers over 300 exciting activities. All ages. $12. 10:30 am-6 pm. Downtown Houston. 901 Bagby, Houston. www.houstonchildrensfestival.com.
bayou city arts festival. See March 27.
tomball german heritage festival.
See March 27, 10 am-10 pm. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
onthego
downtown houston walking tours
Free Tours of Houston Available Through Downtown Mobile Info Technology
H
ouston residents and visitors can be easily guided through some of the city’s most recognizable landmarks via the Downtown Mobile Info (DMI) walking tours. The free tours highlight sights throughout the Theater District, along Buffalo Bayou and beyond. “DMI allows people to learn about downtown on their own with a cell phone as their guide,” said Dawn Ulrich, president and CEO of Houston First Corporation. “It is a great way to explore downtown when friends and family come to visit.” Starting points for each tour loop are indicated by red kiosks located at Wortham Center, Jones Plaza and Hobby Center. Users can access the tour audio by downloading the “Houston DMI” app on their cellphones or by calling 713-300-0892. Once connected, listeners will be educated about each stop and prompted to move to a new location. Three tour loops are available through DMI: Monument Loop, Theater Loop and Bayou Loop. Users have the option of making all 19 stops or choosing individual loops. Notable stops include Baker Monument, Bush Monument, Alley Theatre and the infamous Hanging Tree.
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march 2015 . houston family magazine . 67
onthego
nowexhibiting Tradition demonstrates how Czech culture has played an instrumental role in shaping the iconic Texas landscape. Jan. 25-Apr. 26 Museum hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am-4pm Admission: Free with museum entry ($6 for adults, $3 for children 6 & under, and free for CCMH Members). Czech Center Museum Houston. 4920 San Jacinto at Wichita, Houston. czechcenter.org.
DiverseWorks Oliver Herring: Areas for Action Areas for Action, is an accumulative exhibition consisting of daily performances, improvisatory sculptures, and real-time collaborative artworks created on-site with different groups of volunteers over several weeks. Jan. 21-Mar. 7 Museum hours: Wed. noon-8pm, Thurs., Fri., Sat. noon-6pm Admission: Free DiverseWorks. 4102 Fannin St, Suite 200 Houston. www.diverseworks.org.
Houston Museum of African American Culture My Life as a Doll A walk through installation experience that is a meditation on the status of women. Jan. 30-Mar. 29 Museum hours: Wed., Fri., Sat. 11am-6pm, Thurs. 11am-8pm, Sun. 12pm-6pm Admission: Free Houston Museum of African American Culture 4807 Caroline, Houston. www.hmaac.org.
southwest international in-water boat show. See March 26, 10 am-7 pm.
button battle. See March 16.
young writers workshop. See March 7.
recycling saturdays. See March 7.
galveston beach hike. See March 7.
29
sunday
asia society presents! shujaat khan & kayhan kalhor: persian and indian improvisations.
In collaboration with IndoAmerican Association, Asia Society presents this beautiful concert of ancient musical traditions. All ages. $30+. 6 pm. Asia Society Texas. 1370 Southmore Blvd., Houston. www.asiasociety.org.
houston children’s festival. See March 28. bayou city arts festival. See March 27.
southwest international in-water boat show. See March 26, 10 am-6 pm.
Offering several stages, The Festival is divided into themed Family Adventure Zones and delivers over 300 exciting activities. See March 28. 31
tuesday
establish a Christian hospital and school in the Himalayas and face a series obstacles from the villagers and a hostile environment-introduced by Carl Palazzolo. Adults. $9. 7 pm. Museum of Fine Arts, Law Building. 1001 Bissonnet, Houston. www.mfah.org.
Sip a mint julep and enjoy the music of jazz saxophonist David Caceres. Adults. $35. 6-8 pm. Bayou Bend Garden and Collections. 6003 Memorial Dr., Houston. www.mfah.org.
baby bounce.
open door. See March 3.
See March 2.
baby time. See March 2.
preschool storytime.
jazz and juleps.
toddler yoga. See March 3. toddler playtime. See March 3.
See March 2.
toddler time. See March 3.
tomball german heritage festival.
toddler time.
preschool story time.
sunday garden photography day rienzi.
getlisted!
See March 27, 10 am-10 pm.
See March 1.
sunday family zone + studio. See March 1.
30
monday
movies houstonians love: black narcissus.
Tensions grow as a group of Anglican nuns attempt to 68 . houston family magazine . march 2015
houston children’s festival.
See March 2.
See March 3.
To submit calendar listings, send information to calendar@ houstonfamilymagazine. com (no attachments please). Listings can also be mailed to Calendar, 5131 Braesvalley, Houston TX 77096; or faxed to 713-266-1915. Include the name of the event, date and time, venue address, short discription, appropriate age range, fee, phone number and web site address. Submissions are listed on a space-available basis. We’d love to include high-resolution photos, as well; please submit 300dpi-minimum, color jpegs (we cannot return). Deadline for the calendar is two months in advance of issue date. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
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march 2015 . houston family magazine . 69
hesaidshesaid the last word a lesson in choices by sam and pam middleton
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pam wants to elevate the kids’ life skills with lessons in defining moments. sam counters that the real lesson has to do with emotional maturity.
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70 . houston family magazine . march 2015
TO: Sam FROM: Pam SUBJECT: Choices I think the kids could use a refresher course on choices. I can’t remember when, exactly, I first heard the term “defining moment.” I know it was after I had actually experienced one. A defining moment is one that involves an event in a person’s life that is so monumental, it is formative in its effect. That moment imprints upon the person, adding to the contours of his or her individuality. The shaping of all these moments mound to define who we are as individuals. These moments happen in the blink of an eye. Yet they are followed by an irreversible change that lasts a lifetime. Some of these moments are external in nature. They cannot be controlled. They are to be acknowledged, but nothing more. On the other hand, we have choices. According to Dr. Phil, each person on the planet makes seven critical choices in his/her lifetime. These choices dictate
the very course of a person’s life—for good or for bad. I know you believe in reinforcing to the kids the concept of choices--choices in how they deal with emotions, how they handle conflict, which values ground them, which principles guide them, and so on. Maybe we also can adopt a family slogan that we tape to the fridge and repeat. Something like: “Sometimes you make choices in life, and sometimes choices make you.” Think George McFly in “Back to the Future:” His kissing Lorraine at the “Enchantment Under the Sea” dance, is a defining moment that ultimately leads to their marriage. However, the second time around, George not only kisses Lorraine, but also stands up to Biff, the school bully—a critical choice that ends up upgrading his life by orders of magnitude. Let’s teach the power of choice to our kids. We can all be McFly. TO: Pam FROM: Sam SUBJECT: Choices McFly, really? Are you sure that isn’t too much of a stretch goal? There are two finer points at play here, from my perspective. The first is to be aware of your emotions. That requires a constant monitoring of how you feel. For example, consider when you to me, “I can’t hear a word you’re saying because you’re a mumbler” (ala Johnny Depp’s Willie Wonka). I have an initial emotion reaction, which might be to respond, “If I were as important to you as Facebook, you might be able to spare enough attention to hear me speak.” Though that would be
personally satisfying for me, it would undoubtedly trigger an escalated and equally belligerent response on your side. Instead, I acknowledge those feelings and weigh them against my belief that though your means might not be as sophisticated, I do believe you have the best of intentions for me. Hence I try to repeat myself more clearly. We can contrast this scenario with a “defining moment,” which happens regardless of one’s emotional maturity or sophistication. An example of a “defining moment” might be my birthday party at the lake. When, in an attempt to relive our youth, we mounted a jet ski and blasted across the lake at unsafe speeds, with little concern about ourselves or those around us, ultimately crashing in a boiling mess of plastic, gas, oil, feathers and our own blood. Even looking at a jet ski in the mall at Outdoor World gives me great pause, accelerated breathing and remorseless guilt for that poor pelican. That I would say is a “defining moment.” I think it’s important for our children to develop both sophistication when it comes to confronting their emotions and appreciation when recalling defining moments. Both are skills that will serve them well over the course of their lives. I think a great way to start would be to share some of our experiences as stories and talk about lessons learned. Speaking of emotional sophistication, your cousin left a message. She wants in on our Summer Kick Off party. That should provide plenty of “defining moment” fodder to teach the kids a lifetime of lessons in choices. www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
luck of the irish! Daily Giveaways in March from Houston Family Magazine
Here is a list of the vendors and/or prizes up for grabs this month! March 2
Urban Slide Passes
March 3
Once at The Hobby Center of Performing Arts
March 4
Buffalo Bayou Kayak Passes
March 5
HLSR Tickets
March 6
Schlitterbahn Passes
March 9
VIP Galveston Passes
March 10
Moody Gardens Tickets
March 11
HLSR Tickets
March 12
AMF Bowling Passes
March 13
2-Night Stay at Gaylord Texan
March 16
Little Gym Voucher
March 17
Elizabeth Irvine’s “Healthy Mother, Healthy Child”
March 18
Movie Passes
March 19
Blue Willow Bookshop Gift Card
Winners will be notified by email and/ or phone. Be sure the information you include in your entry is valid. No prizes may be redeemed for cash value.
March 20
Mad Science Birthday Party
March 23
Houston Astros Tickets
March 24
IKEA Gift Card
March 25
Sun & Ski Gift Card
houston
Sign up for the Houston Family Magazine Newsletter to receive notifications for our upcoming contests!
March 26
Sky High Bounce House Rental
March 27
Bering’s Gift Card
March 30
Movie Passes
Good luck!
family
www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com
march 2015 . houston family magazine . 71