Lodestar Relationship Marketing and Publications, LLC
The Forest Image Magazine 20665 Old Sorters Road Kingwood, TX 77365 Cell: 281-381-0912 www.forestimage.com
PUBLISHER/MANAGING EDITOR
Mike Netek
EDITOR
Layna Netek
DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING
Layna Netek
CONTENT SUPERVISOR
Mike Netek
DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY
Taylor Netek
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Kelly Thomas/Designed by Kelly
PHOTOGRAPHER
Brooke Holmes, b.marie.photography
Creative Easter Cakes by Family Features
Beyond Legal Documents
(Developing a Comprehenseive Estate Plan) by Sarah Morrow Rotthier
Holy Week, the Final Three Days
Family Promise Hosts Annual Giving Day by Tiffany Venekamp
Events April 2025
Locally Owned, Family Focused, and Community Driven - Lakeside Floors To Go! by Kelly Thomas
A Guide to Great Skin at Any Age by Family Features
The Rainy Roots of a Timeless Phrase: “April Showers Bring May Flowers” by Michael Netek
“Do good and have fun!” while playing golf at Rotary’s Cinco de Mayo Charity Golf Tournament by Rotary Club of Lake Houston
Create a Cozy Outdoor Space with a Backyard Firepit by Family Features
Early Spring Lawn Care Tips for Houston and College Station by aggielandgreen.com
Advertisers Map April 2025
Kingwood, Humble, Atascocita, Huffman, Porter, New Caney and The Highlands
Locally Owned, Family Focused,
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Creative Easter Cakes
Celebrate the Holiday with Tasty Desserts and Time with Family
By Family Features
Sweet, delicious treats make Easter celebrations magical, putting the final touch on brunch, lunch or dinner gatherings. Whether your crowd enjoys the sweet-tart combination of fruit-infused cakes, mini bundts with personalized decorations or rich, creamy cheesecake, the dessert table is sure to be popular.
Blueberry Lemon Bundt Cake and Carrot Cheesecake from “Cookin’ Savvy” are perfect desserts for sharing with loved ones, made with little effort and a lot of love. You can even let little ones help in the kitchen with Fun Mini Easter Bundts by allowing their creativity to run wild – just hand over the icing and chocolate toppers then watch the artistry unfold.
To ensure your feast goes off without a hitch, create these tempting cakes the day before for a no-hassle Easter.
Find more ways to elevate Easter celebrations with food by visiting Culinary.net.
Lemon Bundt Cake
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Yield: 1 cake
1 pint fresh blueberries, rinsed
1 box lemon cake mix
1 stick butter, melted
4 eggs
1 cup milk
Glaze:
3 tablespoons melted butter
1 cup powdered sugar
3 tablespoons milk
Heat oven to 350 F.
Grease bundt pan and place rinsed blueberries in bottom. Mix cake mix, butter, eggs and milk; pour on top of blueberries. Bake 35 minutes. Let cool and remove from pan.
To make glaze: Mix butter, sugar and milk then pour over cake.
Blueberry
Carrot Cheesecake
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Yield: 1 cake
Cake:
1 box spice cake mix
1 cup grated carrot
1 cup coconut
4 eggs
1 stick butter, melted
2/3 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
Cheesecake:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
3 tablespoons sugar
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2cup powdered sugar
Topping:
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup chopped white chocolate chips
Heat oven to 350 F.
To make cake: Mix cake mix with carrot and coconut. Using hand mixer, blend in eggs, butter and yogurt. Pour mixture into greased springform pan and bake 30 minutes. Let completely cool in pan.
To make cheesecake: Using hand mixer, whip whipping cream and sugar to form whipped cream and set aside.
Using hand mixer, whip cream cheese, vanilla and powdered sugar. Add in whipped cream and mix. Pour onto completely cooled carrot cake in springform pan. Let set in refrigerator at least 4 hours or overnight before unspringing pan.
For topping: Sprinkle chopped nuts and chocolate chips on cake before serving. Tip: For extra festive appearance, add desired Easter candy on top.
Fun Mini Easter Bundts
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Yield: 24 mini bundts
1 box confetti cake mix
1 stick butter, melted
4 eggs
1 cup milk
Chocolate Toppers:
1 cup each color melting chips of desired colors
silicone Easter candy molds of desired shapes
1 pouch ready-made green icing
Heat oven to 350 F.
Mix cake mix, butter, eggs and milk. Pour into greased mini bundt pan and bake 20-25 minutes. Let cool and remove from pan.
To make chocolate toppers: In bowl for each color, melt melting chips in 1-minute intervals in microwave until thoroughly melted. Pour into baggies and snip corner. Pipe melted chips into molds and freeze 15-20 minutes. Pipe green icing onto mini bundt cakes for “grass” then place chocolate mold pieces on top.
Substitution: Save time on toppers by replacing with store-bought chocolate bunnies, eggs, crosses or marshmallow bunnies.
Beyond Legal Documents
(Developing
a Comprehensive Estate Plan)
Generally speaking, most estate plans include a will (and sometimes a trust), powers of attorney (POA), an advanced directive, possibly a transfer on death deed, and one or more other legal documents, as well as a review of your financial accounts to ensure your beneficiary designations are up to date. But what about beyond the legal documents and beneficiary designations?
In addition to the above, consider the following steps to ensure you develop (and maintain) comprehensive estate plan:
Enlist a Qualified Financial Planner – if you don’t already have a relationship with a financial planner, it makes a lot of sense to prioritize finding one you trust. Not only do financial planners help ensure you’re on track before and during retirement, but your financial planner may also become a resource or touchpoint to help prevent you from being exploited. Financial planners are often on the frontline to changing patterns or actions by clients that might indicate exploitation is occurring, and they can alert your trusted family members and friends.
Make Lists – Make a list of banks and financial institutions holding assets, a list of digital assets, accounts, and passwords for your fiduciaries (e.g., agent under a POA, trustee of a trust, executor of your estate) and keep it with your important legal documents.
Funeral/Burial Prepayment – if you know how you want your body to be disposed of (i.e., burial, cremation, donation for medical research, etc.), taking steps now to preplan will save your loved ones time, the cost and stress (and sometimes family fighting) when they are grieving your loss.
Life Insurance – talk to your financial planner about life insurance and other financial products – term life, whole life, indexed annuities, etc. Do you have any? Do you need any? Should you buy a small life insurance policy to help fund your funeral or burial? Life insurance does not make sense for everyone, but there are times when it can be quite helpful.
Long-term Care Insurance – an article from an insurance magazine suggests between ages 60-65 is the best time to buy long-term care insurance (if not earlier), after which it generally may not make financial sense. If you have preexisting health conditions, obtaining a policy through your employer during your working years (when you may be able to forgo answering medical conditions) and continue such policy after retirement, may help keep your premiums lower.
Once you have a comprehensive plan in place, set an annual or bi-annual reminder to review your plans to ensure they still align with your wishes and goals or make updates if necessary. Having a thorough estate plan in place is one of the best gifts you can give your loved ones.
Sarah Morrow Rotthier ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR
Holy Week, the Final Three Days
According to Matthew 27-28 The Story of Jesus’ Trial, Execution, and Resurrection
Jesus Brought before Pilate
27 When morning came, all the chief priests and the elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death; 2 and they bound him and led him away and delivered him to Pilate the governor.
The Suicide of Judas
3 When Judas, his betrayer, saw that he was condemned, he repented and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, 4 saying, “I have sinned in betraying innocent blood.” They said, “What is that to us? See to it yourself.” 5 And throwing down the pieces of silver in the temple, he departed; and he went and hanged himself. 6 But the chief priests, taking the pieces of silver, said, “It is not lawful to put them into the treasury, since they are blood money.” 7 So they took counsel, and bought with them the potter’s field, to bury strangers in. 8 Therefore that field has been called the Field of Blood to this day. 9 Then was fulfilled what had been spoken by the prophet Jeremiah, saying, “And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him on whom a price had been set by some of the sons of Israel, 10 and they gave them for the potter’s field, as the Lord directed me.”
Pilate Questions Jesus
11 Now Jesus stood before the governor; and the governor asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus said to him, “You have said so.” 12 But when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he made no answer. 13 Then Pilate said to him, “Do you not hear how many things they testify against you?” 14 But he gave him no answer, not even to a single charge; so that the governor wondered greatly.
Barabbas or Jesus?
15 Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to release for the crowd any one prisoner whom they wanted. 16 And they had then a notorious prisoner, called Barab’bas.[a] 17 So when they had gathered, Pilate said to them, “Whom do you want me to release for you, Barab’bas[b] or Jesus who is called Christ?” 18 For he knew that it was out of envy that they had delivered him up. 19 Besides, while he was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent word to him, “Have nothing to do with that righteous man, for I have suffered much over him today in a dream.” 20 Now the chief priests and the elders persuaded the people to ask for Barab’bas and destroy Jesus. 21 The governor again said to them, “Which of the two do you want me to release for you?” And they said, “Barab’bas.” 22 Pilate said to them, “Then what shall I do with Jesus who is called Christ?” They all said, “Let him be crucified.” 23 And he said, “Why, what evil has he done?” But they shouted all the more, “Let him be crucified.”
Pilate Hands Jesus over to Be Crucified
24 So when Pilate saw that he was gaining nothing, but rather that a riot was beginning, he took water and washed his hands before the crowd, saying, “I am innocent of this righteous man’s blood;[c] see to it yourselves.” 25 And all the people answered, “His blood be on us and on our children!” 26 Then he released for them Barab’bas, and having scourged Jesus, delivered him to be crucified.
The Soldiers Mock Jesus
27 Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the praetorium, and they gathered the whole battalion before him. 28 And they stripped him and put a scarlet robe upon him, 29 and plaiting a crown of thorns they put it on his head, and put a reed in his right hand. And kneeling before him they mocked him, saying, “Hail, King
of the Jews!” 30 And they spat upon him, and took the reed and struck him on the head. 31 And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the robe, and put his own clothes on him, and led him away to crucify him.
The Crucifixion of Jesus
32 As they were marching out, they came upon a man of Cyre’ne, Simon by name; this man they compelled to carry his cross. 33 And when they came to a place called Gol’gotha (which means the place of a skull), 34 they offered him wine to drink, mingled with gall; but when he tasted it, he would not drink it. 35 And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots; 36 then they sat down and kept watch over him there. 37 And over his head they put the charge against him, which read, “This is Jesus the King of the Jews.” 38 Then two robbers were crucified with him, one on the right and one on the left. 39 And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads 40 and saying, “You who would destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross.” 41 So also the chief priests, with the scribes and elders, mocked him, saying, 42 “He saved others; he cannot save himself. He is the King of Israel; let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. 43 He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him; for he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’” 44 And the robbers who were crucified with him also reviled him in the same way.
The Death of Jesus
45 Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land[d] until the ninth hour. 46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, la’ma sabach-tha’ni?” that is, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”[e] 47 And some of the bystanders hearing it said, “This man is calling Eli’jah.” 48 And one of them at once ran and took a sponge, filled it with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave it to him to drink. 49 But the others said, “Wait, let us see whether Eli’jah will come to save him.”[f] 50 And Jesus cried again with a loud voice and yielded up his spirit. 51 And behold, the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom; and the earth shook, and the rocks were split; 52 the tombs also were opened, and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised, 53 and coming out of the tombs after his resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many. 54 When the centurion and those who were with him, keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were filled with awe, and said, “Truly this was the Son[g] of God!”
55 There were also many women there, looking on from afar, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him; 56 among whom were Mary Mag’dalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of the sons of Zeb’edee.
The Burial of Jesus
57 When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathe’a, named Joseph, who also was a disciple of Jesus. 58 He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate ordered it to be given to him. 59 And Joseph took the body, and wrapped it in a clean linen shroud, 60 and laid it in his own new tomb, which he
had hewn in the rock; and he rolled a great stone to the door of the tomb, and departed. 61 Mary Mag’dalene and the other Mary were there, sitting opposite the sepulchre.
The Guard at the Tomb
62 Next day, that is, after the day of Preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered before Pilate 63 and said, “Sir, we remember how that imposter said, while he was still alive, ‘After three days I will rise again.’ 64 Therefore order the sepulchre to be made secure until the third day, lest his disciples go and steal him away, and tell the people, ‘He has risen from the dead,’ and the last fraud will be worse than the first.” 65 Pilate said to them, “You have a guard[h] of soldiers; go, make it as secure as you can.”[i] 66 So they went and made the sepulchre secure by sealing the stone and setting a guard.[j]
The Resurrection of Jesus
28 [a]Now after the sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Mag’dalene and the other Mary went to see the sepulchre. 2 And behold, there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone, and sat upon it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow. 4 And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. 5 But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here; for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he[b] lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. Lo, I have told you.”
8 So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Hail!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brethren to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.”
Family Promise Hosts Annual Giving Day
Family Promise of Lake Houston, a local organization working to prevent and end family homelessness, hosts its annual campaign to raise support for families in need.
Humble, TX — On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, Family Promise of Lake Houston will celebrate its annual Family Promise Giving Day, a 24-hour online campaign to support children and families facing homelessness.
This event emphasizes the role of donors, volunteers, and community members play in providing hope and support to families facing a housing crisis and celebrates the collective effort needed to create lasting change. Amid the growing affordable housing crisis and increasing levels of family homelessness nationwide, Family Promise of Lake Houston invites supporters in the Lake Houston Area to join them for this National Day of Giving.
“Home is more than just a roof over our heads- it’s a place of stability, security, and hope. Every gift on Family Promise Giving Day helps families take a step toward that hope and a brighter future. Your support provides more than shelter; it restores dignity, strengthens families, and builds a stronger community for us all.” – Tiffany Venekamp, Executive Director, Family Promise of Lake Houston
Family Promise Giving Day is a meaningful opportunity to support local efforts to end family homelessness and help families in need find renewed hope. On April 22, Family Promise of Lake Houston invites the community to come together for a day of giving, helping families in need take the first step toward home.
For more information about Family Promise Giving Day, please visit: FPLH.org
About Family Promise
Founded in Humble, TX, in 2009, Family Promise is the leading nonprofit addressing the crisis of family homelessness in the Lake Houston Area. The organization tackles the range of issues that can lead to homelessness. From prevention services to emergency shelter and housing to post-program stabilization, Family Promise ensures families develop vital skills, have access to critical resources, and receive ongoing support to achieve lasting independence. To learn more about Family Promise, visit FPLH.org
April 2025 Events
Blood Drive
Montgomery County Precinct 4
21130 Hwy 59 S, New Caney
Contact: Stacey Hamlet 281-330-5018
April 2, 2:30 pm - 6 pm
Music Mashup
The Brass Tap
4635 Kingwood Dr. , Ste. 800
April 2, 7 pm - 8:30 pm
Good Oil Days Festival (Food truck, live entertainment and exciting area for kids)
Humble Main Street
April 5, 10 am - 5 pm
Seadog - A Pirates Tale (Musical)
The Nathaniel Center
804 Russell Palmer, Kingwood
April 5-6
Sat. 2 pm & 6:30 pm and Sun. 3 pm
The Village Center Presents Singo Bingo Night
The Brass Tap
4635 Kingwood Dr. , Ste. 800
April 7, 6 pm - 8 pm
Bring a $20 bottle of wine or whiskey for entry
Garden Tour
Mercer Arboretum
22306 Aldine Westfield Rd. , Humble
April 11, 9 am - 10 am
Music and Motors on Main Street
(Music, Cars and Food Trucks)
308 Main St., Humble
April 11, 6 pm
Kingwood Ballet Presents Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
The Nathaniel Center
804 Russell Palmer Rd., Kingwood
April 11 - 13
April 11, 7 pm - April 12, 1:30 pm and 7 pm
April 13, 1:30 pm
East Montgomery County Improvement District
Eggcellent Event & Mini-Market
Don Ford Stadium
22784 US-59, Porter
April 12, 9 am - Noon
Montgomery County Market Days
Bull Sallas Park
21675 Mc Cleskey Rd., New Caney
April 12 - 13
April 12, 9 am - 5 pm and April 13, 10 am - 4 pm
Easter Egg Hunt
Kingwood United Methodist Church
1799 Woodland Hills Dr., Kingwood
April 19, 10 am
Greater East Montgomery County Chamber Presents Leading Ladies Quarterly Luncheon
The Atrium Center
21575 US-59, New Caney
April 22, 11 am - 1:00 pm
The Village Center Presents The Silver Premier Casino
Night Celebration
The Clubs of Kingwood
1700 Lake Kingwood Trail, Kingwood
April 26, 7 pm -11 pm
The Holocaust Remembrance Association Presents From Remembrance to Responsibility Upstanders Arise
An Evening of Theater and Elegance at The George 5420 Westheimer, Houston
2420 W. Lake Houston Pkwy, Kingwood Wednesdays 11:45 am - 1:00 pm
Locally Owned, Family Focused, and Community Driven - Lakeside Floors To Go!
When it comes to transforming your home with high quality flooring, there’s no better place to turn than Lakeside Floors To Go! Located right in the heart of Huffman at 12118 FM 1960 East, this locally owned and locally invested business is more than just a flooring store—it’s a family legacy.
Owned by Colleen and Kenny Hoyt, Lakeside Floors To Go is built on a foundation of family values, exceptional service, and a passion for helping homeowners create beautiful spaces. With two grown children and a growing family of 4 grandchildren (including their first granddaughter on the way!), Colleen and Kenny know just how important a home is—it’s where memories are made.
Unlike the big box stores, Lakeside Floors To Go isn’t just another business—they’re your neighbors. They care about the community because they ARE part of the community. Customer service is their top priority, ensuring that each and
every customer gets the one-on-one expert advice they deserve. Whether you’re looking for carpet, hardwood, luxury vinyl, tile/stone, laminate, area rugs, or kitchen countertops, you’ll find the best selection and the latest trends in their showroom.
Speaking of new trends, Lakeside Floors To Go is getting ready to introduce an exciting new line of WPC luxury vinyl plank Canopy, designed to impress and made to last! This innovative flooring option is durable, comfortable, easy to maintain, and perfect for busy households. And, that’s not all—they’re even considering adding kitchen cabinets to their lineup, making it easier than ever to upgrade your home in one convenient place.
There’s a reason why Lakeside Floors To Go has so many loyal customers. Just ask Madi, who says, “We use Lakeside Floors for ALL of our carpet needs! They have the best prices
and are very quick with measuring and install. Cannot recommend them enough!”
Whether you’re sprucing up for the season or tackling a major home renovation, Lakeside Floors To Go has the quality products and expert knowledge you need.
Stop by the showroom today at 12118 FM 1960 East, Huffman, TX, or give them a call at 281-324-9032. You can also visit their website at www.lakesidefloors.com to explore their products and services.
When you choose Lakeside Floors To Go, you’re not just shopping for flooring—you’re supporting a business that truly cares about their customers and their community. And that’s something worth stepping into!
A Guide to Great Skin at Any Age
By Family Features
Here’s the secret for achieving a glowing complexion: there is no secret. In fact, a key factor in achieving great skin at any age comes down to one common denominator that’s no secret at all. It’s simply taking good care of your skin.
After all, your skin is your body’s single largest organ. It’s your protective shield, but it can also reveal the truth of your age, especially if you’re lax when it comes to regular skin care.
Make hydration a priority. Keeping the skin hydrated maintains its barrier integrity. When the skin becomes dry, it reduces the effectiveness of the skin barrier, making it less resilient against irritants and allergens.
Often, when the skin is dry it feels more rough or flaky. With proper hydration, the skin feels smoother and looks more supple. Achieving hydration through a better skin care routine, drinking plenty of water daily and eating certain fruits and vegetables can improve your skin’s appearance, maintaining a radiant, healthy complexion.
Use the right soap. Despite what your mother may have told you, squeaky clean isn’t always best. A better bet when it comes to soap is a product that respects your skin’s moisture balance and cleanses without creating tightness or irritation.
Mild options such as Pears skin cleansing products are specifically formulated and dermatologically tested to be gentle on the skin. They’re made with plant-based glycerin, which is a powerful humectant that attracts water from the environment and deeper layers of the skin to the outer layer, keeping it hydrated. Glycerin-based cleansers can help prevent stripping of the skin’s natural oils, which averts a tight, dry feeling.
“More than ever, consumers are looking for mild and gentle products that are effective, smell good and work well,” said Dr. Adriana Lombardi, founder of the Skin Cancer & Cosmetic Surgery Center of New Jersey. “Pears soap checks all the boxes. It creates a really nice, thick lather and smells crisp and clean while leaving the skin hydrated.”
Avoid hot showers. Even the best products may not overcome the potential harm that comes from taking showers that are too hot. The heat removes your skin’s natural oils, which leaves you prone to itching and dryness and may worsen skin conditions.
Instead of cranking up the heat, opt for lukewarm temperatures and keep the shower time brief. Use moisturizing cleansers, and after your shower, immediately apply moisturizer to replenish and rehydrate your skin.
Protect your skin from the sun. After completing your skin cleansing routine, there’s an additional step to help maintain healthy, hydrated skin before heading outdoors: Take time to apply a layer of sunscreen to skin that will be exposed, including your face, ears and hands. Reapply every two hours if you’re spending a great deal of time outside. Sun damage can prematurely age the skin. You may not feel the heat as much during colder times of year, but the rays are still capable of damaging your skin, maybe even more so because you don’t feel the burn.
Find more advice for keeping your skin supple and soft at Amazon.com/pears. Photos courtesy of Shutterstock.
3 Steps to Practice a Healthy Skin Routine
1. Use a humidifier in your room. Adding moisture to your environment may help prevent over-drying and promote better air quality for your overall health, including your skin.
2. Use glycerin-based soap. A glycerin-based soap like Pears gently cleanses your skin without stripping essential moisture.
3. Moisturize immediately after showering. Showering, especially at higher water temperatures, can strip your body’s natural oils. Applying lotion immediately after you shower helps retain the moisture your body needs.
Showers Bring May Flowers”
By Michael Netek
As winter in Texas melts into spring, the familiar phrase “April showers bring May flowers” often finds its way into conversations, calendars, and garden center signs like Warrens’ Southern Gardens in Kingwood. It’s a gentle reminder that grey skies and soggy afternoons are simply part of nature’s plan, a prelude to beauty and bloom. But where did this comforting saying come from, and what deeper meaning does it carry?
A Line from the Past: Thomas Tusser’s Influence
The phrase is commonly traced back to the mid-1500s and the writings of English poet and farmer Thomas Tusser. In his collection A Hundred Good Points of Husbandry, Tusser penned the line, “Sweet April showers, do spring May flowers.” His work, a blend of poetry and practical agricultural advice, served as a farmer’s almanac of sorts, capturing the rhythm of the rural year and the wisdom of working with nature’s cycles.
Tusser’s simple yet evocative line encapsulated the essence of springtime in the English countryside—a time when frequent rains in April paved the way for vibrant blooms in May. Over the centuries, the phrase evolved and simplified, taking the form we know today.
A Very British Origin
It’s no surprise the saying has roots in the United Kingdom, where April is traditionally a damp and unpredictable month. The cooler climate delays the bloom of many spring flowers until late April or early May, making the connection between rainfall and floral abundance all the more literal. This seasonal pattern likely helped cement the phrase into British folklore and, eventually, into common English usage.
More Than Just Weather: A Symbol of Hope
Beyond its meteorological accuracy, “April showers bring May flowers” endures because it speaks to a universal human experience. It’s a symbol of renewal and resilience, suggesting that difficult or dreary times (the “showers”) often precede moments of growth and beauty (the “flowers”). In this way, the phrase offers comfort and encouragement—a reminder that patience and perseverance can yield positive outcomes.
Chaucer’s Earlier Echo
Interestingly, the sentiment predates Tusser’s poem. In The Canterbury Tales, written in the late 14th century, Geoffrey Chaucer opened the “General Prologue” with a similar observation:
“Whan that Aprill, with his shoures soote The droghte of March hath perced to the roote...”
Chaucer’s verse paints a picture of April’s sweet showers quenching the dry earth, setting the stage for nature’s revival. Though more poetic and less proverbial, Chaucer’s lines reflect the same understanding: that April’s rains are essential to spring’s arrival.
Today, whether it’s quoted in a school play or scribbled in a springtime journal, “April showers bring May flowers” continues to bloom with meaning. It’s not just about weather—it’s about waiting through the storm and trusting that something beautiful is on the way. We as Texans may be spoiled for we have our beloved Bluebonnet that never disappoints this time of year.
“Do good and have fun!” while playing golf at Rotary’s Cinco de Mayo
Charity Golf Tournament
Rotary Club of Lake Houston
Do you want to help local families but aren’t sure how?
Consider donating, playing or becoming a sponsor in the Rotary Club of Lake Houston Area’s annual Cinco de Mayo Charity Golf Tournament to be held on Thursday, May 8th (not the 5th!) at the Atascocita Golf Club.
Rotary is seeking golfers, teams and sponsors to play golf and help local charities too. Rotary’s annual charity golf tournament returns to the beautiful Atascocita Golf Course, located at 20114 Pinehurst Dr., Atascocita, TX, after several year’s absence.
Please join us for a great day of networking, fun, and helping wonderful causes. Sign-up today by calling or emailing Daniel Contreras at (832) 754-0702 or danielc12@gmail. com .
Registration opens at 7 a.m. with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Breakfast starts at 7 a.m. and lunch will be provided after game play. Silent auction starts at 7 a.m. with raffle winners announced after lunch. Putting contest will start at 8 a.m.
Don’t miss this opportunity to network with other community and business leaders and a chance to bid on some nifty raffle prizes and gift baskets. Your participation and/or sponsorship will help to raise money for a dozen or more local charities helping to improve people’s lives in the Lake Houston area.
Last year the Lake Houston Rotary Foundation provided monetary grants totaling over $53,000 to fifteen local charities during the club’s 2024-2025 Grants and Sponsors Appreciation Luncheon held November 6th at Humble ISD’s James Eggers Instructional Support Center in Kingwood. The club hopes to raise even more money for local charities this year.
Plaques of appreciation were also presented to local business representatives who supported Lake Houston Rotary’s fundraising events as major donors and/or event sponsors.
Funds raised from last year’s golf tournament and Corvette raffle were granted to the following organizations: Family Time Crisis Center, Inspire ND, Hopeful Hearts Ministry, Humble ISD Education Foundation, Society of St Stephen, Oaks of Righteousness, Family Promise of Lake Houston, re:MIND, Humble Area Assistance Ministries, Mission Northeast, WINGS Ministry,
Boots for Troops, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, The Village Centers, and Lake Houston Family YMCA.
Rotary has an additional commitment to children’s education too with over a dozen student scholarships granted annually, plus mentoring students in the Junior Rotarian program. The club also supports 2-3 foreign exchange students every year. Over 50 local kids have visited other countries as part of the club’s student exchange program and an equal number of foreign students were hosted locally.
Rotary Golf Committee Chair Daniel “Danny” Contreras said “Players and sponsors are welcome to have fun while doing good when they golf for a cause.” He added, “We couldn’t support so many local charities without the help of sponsors and players. Please join us in helping to make the Lake Houston Area a better place to work, live and play.” Single players are $150 (we’ll match you with a group); and a Foursome team is $600. Your lunch and golf cart are included. Trophies for first, second and third place teams will be awarded. Plus, the tournament is planning some fun side activities including contests for a Hole in One and Closest to the Pin plus interesting raffle prizes, gift baskets and more! Visit our website at www.LHARotary.com and click “Golf Tournament” on the menu bar for regular updates.
Sponsorships are still available on a first come basis and start at $500. The $7,500 premiere title sponsorship has already been taken by Plains State Bank. Other golf sponsors already committed include Robbins Chevrolet, Stellar Bank, Edward Jones and KW Receivables. Visit our tournament sponsor’s page for available sponsorships. Door prizes will also be accepted. Sponsorship details are available here: https:// rotary-club-of-lake-houston-area.perfectgolfevent.com/ or email or call Mike Kevlin at 713-410-7595 or mikekevlin@aol. com.
Attendees may also inspect Rotary’s (very low milage) 2021 Corvette Stingray Coupe 2LT Raffle Grand Prize and/or purchase raffle tickets at the golf tournament. Tickets are $100 each. The Covette Raffle winner will be drawn at Robbins Chevrolet on June 14. You do not need to be present to win.
Rotary’s annual Corvette Raffle is sponsored by Robbins Chevrolet. In addition to the Corvette, additional Corvette Raffle prizes include a chance to win one of ten $250 Visa gift cards and every raffle ticket includes a round of golf for four (Monday-Thursday) at the Atascocita Golf Club (cart not included). Raffle tickets may be purchased from any club member or online at www.LHARotaryRaffle.com.
Charitable donations and grants are made to and by the Lake Houston Rotary Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit. Rotarians are all volunteers and 100% of net proceeds raised is donated.
Club operations are funded by member dues.
Please join us for a great day of networking, fun, and helping wonderful causes at the Atascocita Golf Club, located at 20114 Pinehurst Dr., Atascocita, TX. Sign-up today by calling or emailing Danny Contraras at (832) 754-0702 or danielc12@gmail.com.
Rotary Club of Lake Houston Area members and guests meet at 11:45 a.m. most Wednesdays for their weekly lunch meeting at the Lake Houston Family YMCA, 2420 West Lake Houston Pkwy. in Kingwood. Visitors wishing to learn more about Rotary are welcome.
The Summer Creek Satellite Rotary Club meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month at 8:30 a.m., at Generation Park 3rd floor Nimble Office Suite, 250 Assay St., Houston.
For more information about Rotary or membership, visit www.LHARotary.com or search for our Facebook page @ LakeHoustonAreaRotary.
Rotary volunteers (shown here from last year) help to keep the club’s Cinco de Mayo Charity Golf Tournament costs down to maximize the amount of money available for grants to needly local charities and student scholarships. This year’s tournament will be held at the Atascocita Golf Club on May 8th (instead of the 5th). 100% of net proceeds are donated to charity and school scholarships. The Rotary Club of Lake Houston Area is a 501c(3) non-profit. Club operations are funded with member dues. For more information visit the club’s website at www.LHARotary.com
Create a Cozy Outdoor Space with a Backyard Firepit
By Family Features
A firepit can serve as a warm and inviting backyard retreat, perfect for roasting marshmallows for s’mores or stargazing while wrapped in cozy blankets. Before you can share time around the firepit with loved ones, however, consider these tips to elevate your outdoor space.
Choosing the Right Design
When it comes to building a DIY firepit, the design you choose can significantly impact the aesthetics and functionality. From classic stone pits to modern metal designs, the options are nearly endless. Think about the size and shape as well. Circular designs are traditional and encourage conversation while square or rectangular pits offer a more contemporary look.
Gathering Materials and Tools
Essential materials include bricks, stones or metal parts for the structure, as well as gravel or sand for the base. Fireproof materials are a must to ensure safety and longevity. You’ll also need tools such as a shovel for digging the base, a level to ensure even construction and adhesive or mortar for binding materials together. Depending on your design, you may require a metal fire ring, grill grate or mesh cover.
Keeping Safety in Mind
Safety should be your top priority when building and using a backyard firepit. Always place your firepit at least 10 feet away from any structures, trees or flammable materials. Make sure the area is clear of dry leaves and other debris that could catch fire. Consider installing a spark screen to prevent embers from escaping and always keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby.
Enhancing Ambiance with Seating and Lighting
Creating a cozy atmosphere around your firepit involves more than just the fire itself. Comfortable seating is essential for making your outdoor space inviting. Choose weather-resistant chairs, benches or DIY log stools arranged in a circle to foster conversation. Ambient lighting from string lights, lanterns or solar-powered path lights can elevate the mood and extend the usability of your firepit into the evening. Consider adding citronella candles or torches to keep insects at bay while enhancing the ambiance.
Visit eLivingtoday.com to find more ideas to enhance your living spaces. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
Tips for Houston and College Station
Taking care of your lawn in Texas, especially in Houston and College Station, requires a unique approach due to the warm climate and specific types of grass like St. Augustine, Bermuda, and Zoysia. Early spring lawn care is crucial to ensure a lush and healthy lawn during the hot summer months in Texas. This spring lawn care checklist will walk you through the most important tasks for maintaining a vibrant Texas lawn, from mowing and watering to fire ant control and tree care.
When to Start Spring Lawn Care in Texas
Understanding the best time to start your early spring lawn care tasks is key to seeing great lawn care results. In Texas, the best time to start lawn care is in early spring, from February through April. This period allows you to prepare your lawn for the growing season ahead and spot potential lawn problems before they become a bigger issue. Remember, we offer year-round lawn care in Houston to help homeowners sustain healthy grass.
Early Spring Lawn Care Checklist for Houston Homeowners
Mowing and Watering
Prepare Your Mower: Ensure your lawn mower is in top condition by sharpening the mower blades and changing the oil. This sets the stage for a clean first mow and will promote a healthy lawn throughout the growing season.
When to Start Mowing: Begin mowing in March to encourage new grass growth as the lawn comes out of dormancy. For St. Augustine grass, maintain a height of 2-2.5 inches, while Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass should be kept at 1-2 inches. To limit thatch build-up, bag the grass clippings after the first mow of the season. This will help remove any dead grass and debris leftover from winter.
Spring Lawn Watering Tips: In early spring, it’s a great time to make sure your sprinkler systems are in good working order. Homeowners should aim for about an inch of water per week. Rainfall may take care of the water your lawn needs but pay attention to your local forecast in Houston and
College Station. Morning is the best time to water, as it allows the grass to absorb the water before evaporating from the heat of the day.
Schedule Lawn Aeration
When to Aerate: Schedule core aeration during early spring. The best time range for core aeration in Texas is from about late March through May. This process helps reduce thatch, improves nutrient absorption, and enhances the overall health of your lawn.
Benefits of Aeration: Aeration improves air circulation in the soil, promoting a stronger root system and reducing issues like compacted soil. Warm-season grasses in Texas become worn down from regular use over time. From weather, foot traffic, and mowing, aeration is crucial to repair a lawn and encourage healthy grass.
Fire Ant Control
When to Apply Fire Ant Control: Apply fire ant control in early spring before these pests become highly active. Look for active mounds around your lawn and landscape and treat them promptly.
Eliminating Mounds: Choose effective products to eliminate fire ant mounds, safeguarding your Texas lawn from these invasive pests. Fire ants can cause painful, itchy bites and fire ant prevention will protect your family and pets throughout the summer months. Aggieland Green offers fire ant control treatments starting in early spring to get ahead of any infestations on your property.
Weed Control and Fertilization
Weed Control: Combat common Texas grassy and broadleaf weeds with pre-emergent herbicides, targeting them before they sprout. Pre-emergents are designed to stop germination in the soil which will make your weed control battle more manageable throughout the growing season. Early spring preemergents are crucial to prevent summer weeds like crabgrass. For existing winter weeds like dandelions and poa annua, use post-emergent weed killer during early spring.
Spring Lawn Fertilizer: Start your spring fertilization to provide essential nutrients for healthy grass growth and encourage spring green-up after winter dormancy. Look for fertilizers with a balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to give your lawn everything it needs. Mid-March to April is the best time of year to start lawn fertilization in Texas.
Tree and Shrub Care
Spring Fertilization and Insect Control: Fertilize trees and shrubs, and monitor for signs of pests. Early spring is also an ideal time for pruning. When to Prune: Start pruning in early spring before new growth begins. This promotes healthy development and maintains the desired shape of your trees and shrubs.
Local Lawn Care Experts Near Houston and College Station
Established in 2008, Aggieland Green is a trusted lawn care service in the Houston and College Station areas. We are experts in Texas lawn care with a commitment to customer satisfaction and personalized care. With years of experience, we’ve been a go-to choice for homeowners seeking a reliable and professional lawn care partner. Our services include weed control and fertilization lawn care programs, tree and shrub care, mosquito control, and lawn aeration in Houston, Bryan, and College Station. Contact us today for a free quote to get a headstart on your early spring lawn care!
Copyright: https://aggielandgreen.com/early-spring-lawn-care-in-houston/ Category: Blog February 7, 2024
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