Houston Family Magazine November 2022 Issue

We plan for the unexpected so you don’t have to.

We know when you’re expecting, unexpected things can happen. That’s why from the second you find out you’re going to be a mother to the moment you’re holding your baby, we’re right there with you. Located within the Texas Medical Center, The Fetal Center is affiliated with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, UT Physicians, and Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital, and provides specialized care personalized to you and your baby, well before your baby’s first breath.

memorialhermann.org/fetal

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Lindsay and Kendall’s Story:

Finding help for their unborn baby’s spina bifida

@mariahevansonphotography

Lindsay and Kendall were living a nice life in Temple, Texas, in the spring of 2017. They had careers they loved—she’s a dermatologist; he’s an ophthalmologist. They had a 15-monthold boy named Hays and a new baby on the way. Still, the couple felt that this pregnancy was going to be different.

An ultrasound at 18 weeks confirmed their suspicions

Their baby had spina bifida. A portion of her lower spinal cord was exposed. The long-term effects could be seizures, bowel and bladder control issues, and difficulty walking. She might also need a special shunt to regulate her brain’s fluid levels.

“It was gut-wrenching,” said Lindsay. But she knew in her heart they would find their way through.

Early in-utero spinal repair offered hope.

Lindsay and Kendall met with specialists at two prominent centers in Houston, including The Fetal Center at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital. The Fetal Center is a national referral center and an international leader in fetal diagnosis, fetal intervention and comprehensive fetal care for infants with congenital anomalies or genetic abnormalities. In collaboration with affiliated pediatric sub-specialists at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, the team offers patients a complete range of prenatal testing and fetal interventions with a coordinated program for mother and child before, during and after birth.

The Fetal Center team

During their visit to The Fetal Center, the couple met with KuoJen Tsao, MD, Stephen Fletcher, DO, and other members of the team to learn about their approach to performing spina bifida repair in utero. Dr. Tsao is The Children’s

Fund, Inc. Distinguished Professor in Pediatric Surgery at UTHealth Houston, a co-director of The Fetal Center and a pediatric surgeon at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital. Dr. Fletcher is a professor in the Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery at UTHealth Houston and a pediatric neurosurgeon at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital.

Dr. Tsao and Dr. Fletcher were part of the physician team affiliated with The Fetal Center that was the first in Texas to perform fetal surgery for the repair of myelomeningocele, the most severe form of spina bifida, in May 2011. This procedure followed the published results from the seven-year multicenter clinical trial, the Management of Myelomeningocele Study (MOMS), in March 2011, which aimed to improve outcomes in fetal spina bifida patients. Overall, The Fetal Center’s patient outcomes data mirrored or were better than those reported in the MOMS trial.

Life-altering surgical decisions

After exhausting interviews, tests and scans, the couple chose The Fetal Center’s approach, which involved two C-sections, one to repair the spinal cord defect, the second to deliver their baby girl, Eliza. It would be difficult on Lindsay, but she accepted that.

“Children’s Memorial Hermann felt more comfortable to us, more like home,” Lindsay said.

“They spent so much time with us, answering all our questions,” Kendall added.

At 21 weeks, the results of a fetal MRI, extensive 3D ultrasounds, echocardiograms, EKGs and blood tests were more encouraging than expected. Eliza’s brain growth was still an issue, but she was moving her legs a lot and showed no signs of club feet, which was very promising.

memorialhermann.org/fetal 713.222.CARE (2273) Advancing health. Personalizing care.

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“While none of this is a guarantee, she may be able to walk!” Lindsay blogged to friends and family.

Praying for courage and life

At a day shy of 25 weeks into Lindsay’s pregnancy, Dr. Tsao, Dr. Fletcher and the affiliated surgical team performed the repair procedure at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital on what Lindsay describes as the “single scariest day of her life.”

The surgery went smoothly. Lindsay spent the next 77 days on bed rest. Eliza made steady progress.

On August 24, 2017, mere hours before Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, Eliza was delivered, weighing 5 pounds, 9 ounces. After 13 days in the Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital and 10 days recovering in Houston, all four members of the family headed home to Temple, eager to enjoy their miraculous “new normal” together, something they could hardly imagine when their journey began.

Five years later

Five years later in 2022, the family is doing great. Eliza started Kindergarten this year and is thriving. Not only is she walking independently, but she is also running and jumping. While she does face some challenges, she has never needed a shunt to regulate her brain’s fluid levels and she continues to meet her milestones.

“You would never know Eliza has a special story,” Lindsay says. “She is a smart, happy kindergartener, has many friends and loves her big brother. We are incredibly grateful to The Fetal Center team for all they did to help her and our family.”

TABLE OF CONTENTS 08

16 19

ON THE COVER Head down to Baytown this holiday season to take in the majestic Magical Winter Lights! Photo credit: Magical Winter Lights

IN EVERY ISSUE

written by Kimberly Guerra

10

GREEN YOUR GRATITUDE

12

GRATITUDE FOR GROWNUPS

14 16 26

written by Sandi Schwartz

written by Christine Katz

BEYOND TURKEY SANDWICHES written by Christine Katz

'TIS ISLAND TIME HOLIDAYS IN GALVESTON written by Kimberly Guerra

HOW TO GET THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS NEARLY STRESSFREE written by Kimberly Blaker

30

E-LEARNING OPENING DOORS

32

FUN FALL ACTIVITIES

written by UpBrainery

written by The Goddard School

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

5 PUBLISHER'S NOTE Making Memories every day

6 FAMILY FYI

19 HOLIDAY GUIDE

UpBrainery, Fam2Fam, Royal Caribbean

34 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

34

MAGICAL LIGHTS

written by Kimberly Blaker

Find out all the great things to do in November.

41 HOLIDAY CAMPS

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publisher/editor

Kimberly Davis Guerra kim@houstonfamilymagazine.com

associate editor

Chantal Lemieux chantal@houstonfamilymagazine.com

creative director/ production

Casey Johnson casey@houstonfamilymagazine.com

staff photographer Amy Garrett

contributing authors Kimberly Blaker Kimberly Guerra Christine Katz Sandi Schwartz

advertising sales Beverly Davis Tish Petty

printing

Publication Printers Denver, Colorado

contact us:

1334 Brittmoore Rd. Box #1000B Houston, TX 77043 (P) 713.266.1885 (F) 713.266.1915 www.HoustonFamilyMagazine.com

FIND US ON FACEBOOK @houstonfamilymagazine FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @houstonfamilymagazine CONTACT US Let us know how we’re doing. kim@houstonfamilymagazine.com Houston Family is published monthly by Houston Family Magazine, 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 ©2020 by Houston Family Magazine,LLC. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or part without express permission is prohibited.

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10am-5pm 12pm-5pm Dive into fun with The Octonauts Live!

Join us for two days of fin-tastic family fun featuring PJ Masks meet and greets, hands-on activities, art projects, toddler fun, active adventures and SO much more!

All activities + live performances

for just $10 a ticket!

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Breakfast with

Santa @ Lone Star Flight Museum

Saturday

Dec 10

9:30 a.m. $30 Adults - $20 Kids (ages 2-12) 10% off for Museum Members.

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And don’t forget…

Santa will return in our Stearman, watch him taxi in: Sat., Dec. 5, 10, 17 Visit online for the holiday schedule. lonestarflight.org

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NOVEMBER 11 - DECEMBER 23, 2022 MUSEUM | TRAIN RIDES EVERY WEEKEND | RAIL HOTEL | EVENT SPACE Established 1983

2602 SANTA FE PL GALVESTON, TX 77550 GALVESTONRRMUSEUM.ORG 409-765-5700

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Shop early for gifts to avoid this holiday season's supply shortages.

Our elves are ready with recommendations and wrapping!

(281) 497-8675

bluewillowbookshop.com · (281) 497-8675

Join Us For Our Open House January 26 5-7pm

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o d o t The big

Calendar of Events

You may notice the days getting shorter and the air crisper, but November weather in Houston usually offers mellow sunny days for strolling through any of the city's many parks and by the end of the month, enjoy the unveiling of spectacular holiday window displays and dazzling lights and decorations as they begin to sparkle across the city.

e xas Renaissanc photo credit: Te

NOVEMBER 1 Lift up thy Cares at the Texas Renaissance Festival (weekends through Nov. 27 and Thanksgiving) Bring family and friends to the magical kingdom, an enchanted world filled with kings and queens, knights and nobles, fairies and elves, pirates and peasants, and other fanciful delights. texrenfest.com

21778 Farm to Market 1774, Todd Mission 9am-8pm All ages, $13+

Texas-sized fun at Dewberry Farm!

You’ll find old favorite attractions (the Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch!) and some delightful new ones — plus a whole lotta good things to eat and drink!

Family Storytime & Craft

Enjoy a literary experience! Spend the morning with a story followed by a craft that accompanies the reading. All craft supplies are included.

Levyparkhouston.org Levy Park

10am. Age: 2-5

La Traviata (until Nov. 6)

When the glamorous courtesan Violetta and the young Alfredo fall for each other, it’s as if nothing can tear them apart. But as tragedy unfolds over three sublime acts, family, classism, and deceit plague their relationship. https://www.houstongrandopera.org/ events-tickets/2022-23-season/la-traviata/ Brown Theater

Every Day. All ages

Teach You Tuesday: Make a wreath Are you looking for classes that inspire, motivate, and teach you? This month we partner with Pop Shop America to create a fall foliage wreath in time for the holidays. https://midtownhouston.com Bagby Park

5:30pm. Age: 21+

Solstice by Studio Irregular with programming

Solstice is comprised of a series of mirrored and LED arches that reflect the transformation of Earth when the sun is at its closest and furthest from the equator.

Guests will be able to experience the longest day of the year to the shortest in an explorative and interactive format. https://www.discoverygreen.com/solstice Discovery Green

Daily until 11pm. All ages

Screening: Decision to Leave

Go out to the movies. In the thriller Decision to Leave, a detective is assigned a murder case in the mountains. While investigating the crime, he meets the victim’s mysterious wife (and can’t help but both suspect and be intrigued by her.

Venture out for a family-friendly hike through the Houston Arboretum. Explore the ecosystems to learn about the local wildlife, plants, and natural history.

$5 Thursdays at the Lone Star Flight Museum

The admission includes all the hangars.

NOVEMBER 4 Kristin Wolfe Jensen, bassoon

houstonarboretum.org All day. All ages.

St John the Divine

Join us for a kamishibai reading of "Issunboshi” or “One-Inch Boy" as we celebrate Shichi-go-san.Shichi-go-san, which literally means seven, five, three in Japanese, is a rite of passage celebrating the healthy growth and development of young children.

Levyparkhouston.org

Roco.org

7:30pm. All ages

Japan Junction: The One-Inch Boy” and Chitose Candy Bag

Levy Park. 4:30pm. All ages

https://www.mfah.org/

Museum Fine Arts Houston

Forever Tango

ROCO’s Principal Bassoonist, curates a program centered around our gratitude for educators across the world, featuring chamber music for double reeds, and an interactive Q&A

Houston Arboretum and Nature Center

Two men occasionally steal babies from a church’s baby box and sell the children for adoption on the black market. When a young mother has a change of heart and returns to the church, she invites herself to join the men on a road trip to interview her baby’s potential parents.

7pm. Age: recommended for a mature audience

All day. All ages

Nature Hikes at the Arboretum

Screening: Broker

7pm. Age: recommended for mature audiences. Admission $10.

Fine Arts Museum Houston

Lone Star Flight Museum

NOVEMBER 2

Mission, TX

www.mfah.org

https://lonestarflight.org/events/5thursdays-at-lsfm/

8pm. All ages

dewberryfarm.com Dewberry Farm

NOVEMBER 3

Festival, Todd

MFAH Playdate

This 45-minute program invites children 4 and younger, with their adult caregivers, to join a Museum educator for a multi-sensory experience in the galleries. Participants sing songs, listen to storybooks, and join in fun games and activities, all while being introduced to ideas and themes found in the art on view at the MFAH. https://www.mfah.org/

Museum Fine Arts Houston

11:30-12:15pm. Age: up to 4 years old.

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This performance tells the story of the birth of the tango in 19th century Argentina where thousands of men, having abandoned a disintegrating Europe to emigrate to South America, found themselves in the crowded abattoirs, the bars and street corners of the arrabales, and in the enramadas. https://www.milleroutdoortheatre.com/ monthly-schedule/ Miller Outdoor Theater 7pm. All ages

NOVEMBER 5 The Novelist’s Film

A novelist is disenchanted with her writing.

When she runs into the filmmaker whose project to adapt one of her novels fell through, she resolves to make a film starring a popular actress. https://www.mfah.org

Museum of Fine Arts Houston 3:00-4:40pm. All ages

Chalk on the block

Enjoy the interactive 3D sidewalk chalk art that will make you feel as if you have stepped into another dimension. This month, artists’ designs will be inspired by the fall. https://midtownhouston.com/ events/2022-10/ Bagby Park

10am-noon. All ages.

HANDS-ON HOUSTON FAMILY FESTIVA Join HCCC for the return of our HANDSON HOUSTON FAMILY FESTIVAL, a free community event for families and visitors of all ages.

https://crafthouston.org/events/hands-onhouston-family-festival/#more-22142 Houston Center for Contemporary Craft 11am-3pm. All ages

Art in the Park

Learn Spanish while exploring different art techniques! Students, ages 3 to 12 will create a unique art piece while improving their speaking and listening skills en español.

https://www.discoverygreen.com/5433782 Discovery Green Noon. All ages

Diggin’ Old Stuff

A family friend dig at Kleb Woods Nature Center. Participate in an archaeological dig, forge your own keepsake, and tour the 1896 Kleb house! All are welcome to attend this free family-friendly event. https://apps.hcp4.net/med/Event/ Detail/9110

Family Zone

On selected Sundays, families are invited to visit the MFAH Family Zone. You’ll find engaging gallery activities with coloring sheets, colored pencils, books, and more.

Knowledgeable staff members are on hand to help answer questions about the works of art on view.

Movie under the stars: The Secret Life of Pets

Figure out what our pets do while we aren't home! Who knows... maybe you'll find a new movie buddy amongst the adoptables! https://apps.hcp4.net/med/Event/ Detail/9167 Ray Miller Park, Elridge Parkway 5:30pm. All ages

The Wreckers

The resolute Thirza whose husband, the preacher Pascoe, declares to the coastal community that shipwrecks along their shore are meant to be pillaged—and meant to be premeditated by leaving the lighthouse dark. But Thirza’s heart and conscience are not with her husband or with his dangerous methods. https://www.houstongrandopera.org/ events-tickets/2022-23-season/thewreckers/ Brown Theater

7:30pm. Age: 13+

Majic Under the Stars Do you believe in Magic?

Midtown Park

Houston Center for Contemporary Craft

This indie horror film takes inspiration from the folk belief seire, which protects newborn babies from bad luck—as long as they are isolated from visitors. Following the birth of their baby, a husband is more skeptical than his wife about the custom.

MOVIES UNDER THE STARS: PITCH PERFECT

The Jet Setters Ball

Museum of Fine Arts Houston

https://marketsquarepark.com/calendar/

https://www.mfah.org

4pm. Age: recommended for a mature audience. $10 admission

NOVEMBER 7 Take in a show or explore an exhibit

NOVEMBER 8 Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary

Escape to this small but enchanting nature sanctuary for a reprieve from the city. Within its 17.5 acres of hardwood and pine forest and freshwater habitats, the Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary provides an important home for native wildlife. houstonaudubon.org

Edith Moore Nature Sanctuary 7am-7pm. All ages

Miller Outdoor Theater 7pm. All ages

NOVEMBER 6 Fall Festival “Dream with Alebrijes”

You are invited to this family-friendly festival that features the unveiling of temporary sculptures by six Houston Latinx artists. The artists have created large-scale, fantastical figures inspired by the Mexican folk-art tradition of alebrijes. https://www.mfah.org/calendar/fall-festivaldream-with-alebrijes/202211061300 Museum of Fine Arts Houston

1-6pm. All ages. Free admission for all activities with the purchase of a regular entry ticket.

Forget about trekking to the theater for your movie fix and head to Market Square Park for a free outdoor movie under the stars.

Market Square 7pm. All ages

Houston Cinema Arts Festival (Nov. 10 -17)

The 14th Annual Houston Cinema Arts Festival will take place virtually and at driveins across Houston. The festival will feature over 20 films, Q&A sessions, performances, and workshops. https://www.cinemahtx.org/ Various times. Age: 15+

The Nutcracker Market (Nov. 10-13)

Shop for some amazing treasures to set under your tree this holiday season. https://www.houstonballet.org/about/ nutcracker-market/tickets--events/ nutcracker-market-tickets-and-events/ admission/

11am-2pm. All ages

This year’s event will take you back in time to the decade of air travel grandeur. Think Howard Hughes, Frank Sinatra, Audrey Hepburn, Jackie and Ari Onassis, Liz Taylor and Richard Burton in their chic cocktail attire, sipping their favorite vodka gimlet, while crossing the sky. Guests will have plenty of time to mingle, enjoy delicious 60s-themed drinks, experience the museum’s stellar collection of vintage to present day aircraft, and even step aboard one or two of them.

https://lonestarflight.org/events/jet-settersball/ Lone Star Flight Museum

6:30pm. Age: 21+ Black tie attire is required.

Children's Festival: Under the Sea (Nov. 12 & 13)

Dive into fun all weekend long November 12th and 13th with high energy shows, hands-on activities and adventure for all ages - all activities and live performances for just $10 a ticket! https://www.woodlandscenter.org/cf-22 Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Noon-5pm. All ages

NRG Stadium

NOVEMBER 9 Shell-ebrate Turtles

All are welcome at this program designed especially for school-aged children. Each class includes a 30-minute presentation followed by an activity. Registration is required and space is limited. Email johnpaullanding@hcp4.net or call 713-2743131 to sign up. https://apps.hcp4.net/med/Event/ Detail/9108 John Paul Landing Environmental Education Center

Nature Story Time and Discovery Center

https://www.milleroutdoortheatre.com/ monthly-schedule/

Learn how to create a wonderful centerpiece for the holiday season. First, cut and weave slabs of clay to create a ceramic vessel, and then drape your woven clay over a shallow form to create the shape of a bowl or vessel. Vessels will be fired after the workshop and glazed by HCCC staff to make sure the vessel is food safe.

7-9pm. Age: 16+

Screening: Seire

4:30pm. All ages

An egotistical young lawyer, Gordon Bombay, convicted of drunken driving is sentenced to coach a kids’ hockey team made up of misfits.

https://crafthouston.org/events/woven-claybasket-workshop/

1-4pm. All ages

Museum of Fine Arts Houston

2-3pm. All ages

Movie under the stars: the Mighty Ducks

https://midtownhouston.com/

https://www.mfah.org

https://www.woodlandscenter.org/events Cynthia Woods Michell Pavilion

WOVEN CLAY BASKET WORKSHOP

Learn a popular Brazilian dance style during this exciting class. Samba is a partner dance from Rio de Janeiro that evolved as a ballroom dance to the Brazilian samba musical rhythms. Bringing a dance partner is not necessary to participate. The class is free and open to all skill levels. Instruction is provided by the Brazilian Cultural Institute.

Kleb Woods Nature Center in Tomball 9am-3pm. Age 7+

Samba Class

Enjoy storytime on the front lawn of the nature discovery center. Please bring your own blanket. naturediscoverycenter.org Nature Discovery Center 4pm. Age: 0-5

NOVEMBER 10 František Kupka’s “The Yellow Scale”

More than any other canvas, The Yellow Scale represents a turning point as Kupka was about to embark on a path that would ultimately lead to pure abstraction. This talk places the unforgettable painting in the context of Kupka’s contributions to the Czech avant-garde, his exploration of music and color, and the portrait’s philosophical underpinnings. https://www.mfah.org

Museum of Fine Arts Houston 6:30pm. All ages

All day until 5pm or 7pm. All ages

NOVEMBER 11 Veterans Day We Remember

Holst’s The Planets (Nov. 11-13)

Fasten your seatbelts and blast off to the stars when acclaimed conductor Gemma New leads Holst’s sonic, celestial showpiece, which vividly portrays each planet’s astrological persona, from menacing Mars to jolly Jupiter and beyond. https://houstonsymphony.org/tickets/ concerts/holsts-the-planets/ Jones Hall

2pm or 8pm. All ages

NOVEMBER 12 Fortune

Be there as ROCO’s In Concert series continues with “Fortune”, on November 12 at The Church of St. John the Divine!

Conductor Delyana Lazarova makes her ROCO debut in a concert inspired by fantasy and fortune Roco.org

The Church of St John the Divine 7:30pm. All ages

Studio Saturday at Rienzi “Drawing Architecture”

Zeroing in on Rienzi’s building and the beautiful shadows that it casts, participants focus on contour drawing and the use of negative space while using charcoal drawing pencils to create shadows and silhouettes.

Supplies are provided. https://www.mfah.org

Museum of Fine Arts Houston 10am-noon. Age: 8+

NOVEMBER 13 Botanic Garden

Take the family on a stroll among beautiful plants and trees as you engage your senses while discovering the unexpected in Houston’s new living museum for plants and discover an oasis of learning. hbg.org

Houston Botanic Garden

9am-5pm. All ages. Weekdays: $12.50 adults, $8 students & children

Weekends: $15 adults, $10 students & children

NOVEMBER 14 Book Reading and discussion The Invisible Spy by Lisa McMann

Lisa McMann will be at Blue Willow bookshop to celebrate her new book, The Invisible Spy. https://www.bluewillowbookshop.com/ event/lisamcmann22 Blue Willow Bookshop 5pm. All ages

NOVEMBER 15 Take in a show or explore an exhibit

NOVEMBER 16 Coffee Cake Book Club

Coffee Cake Book Club meets the third Wednesday of each month to discuss contemporary and classic authors with like-minded individuals. Email Valerie at girlboss@bluewillowbookshop.com for an invitation. bluewillowbookshop.com 11am. Age: 15+

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NOVEMBER 17

NOVEMBER 18

Planes, Trains and Automobiles: Bank of America Screen on the Green®

The Polar Express (runs from November 18 – December 31)

https://www.discoverygreen.com/5474452

texasstaterailroad.net/events/polarexpress/

Pack a picnic and a blanket to enjoy a family movie under the stars.

Discovery Green 7pm. All ages

The magical story comes to life the minute the train departs the Palestine Depot for the journey to the North Pole on select days in November and in December.

Texas State Railroad. Palestine Depot

Select days and times. All ages. Ticket prices vary.

Decoding Animal Communication

All are welcome at this program designed especially for school-aged children. Each class includes a 30-minute presentation followed by an activity. Registration is required and space is limited. Email klebwoods@hcp4.net or call 281-357-5324 to sign up. https://apps.hcp4.net/med/Event/ Detail/9111 Kleb Woods Nature Center

Zoo Lights Grand Opening!

(November 18-January 8, 2023)

Sip hot chocolate as you stroll through the beautiful Houston Zoo. Interact with Candy the Zoo Lights Zebra presented by HEB, take a selfie on a giant ice throne, and take a socially distanced photo with Santa in his workshop.

Houstonzoo.org Houston Zoo

10am. All ages

5:30-10:30pm. All ages. Admission tickets are required.

Sip & Sparkle

Movies under the Stars: The underdog The Kurt Warner Story

Stroll through the zoo wine sipping along the way or if you prefer beer, Saint Arnold beer will be offered until closing. https://www.houstonzoo.org/events/sipand-sparkle/ Houston Zoo

Until 10pm. Age 21+ for wine tasting

The story of the American Football hero who went from supermarket employee to two-time Most Valuable player! Based on a true story.

NOVEMBER 19

NOVEMBER 21 The Nutcracker (Nov. 21 & 22)

Family Capoeira

Family Capoeira class is a unique AfroBrazilian martial art that develops discipline, coordination, strength, and rhythm.

Instruction is provided by the Brazilian Cultural Institute and is open to families of all sizes and skill levels. https://midtownhouston.com/ Midtown Park

10am. All ages

Flea by Night

Flea by Night is an open-air market featuring local artisans and small business owners selling vintage, handmade, recycled, repurposed and local goods.

This fairytale ballet boasts an enchanting Tchaikovsky musical score and a timeless story of a child’s belief that good triumphs over evil and that dreams really can come true. Our young cast of dancers invites you to share their journey to the magical Kingdom of Sweets. woodlandscenter.org

The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion 2pm & 8pm. All ages

NOVEMBER 22 Baytown Nature Center

https://www.discoverygreen.com/flea

Great place to spend the morning, bring the whole family for a fun educational adventure. Then stay to picnic, hike, or fish.

6-10pm. All ages

Baytown Nature Center. 6213 Bayway

Discovery Green

baytown.org Dr. Baytown

10am-noon. All ages

NOVEMBER 20 Take in a show or explore an exhibit

Tough Broads Out at Night Book Club

Tough Broads Book Club meets the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. This month's book will be The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K Le Guin.

https://www.milleroutdoortheatre.com/ monthly-schedule/

https://www.bluewillowbookshop.com/ event/tough-broads-out-night-book-club-70

7pm. All ages

7pm. Age: 21+

Miller Outdoor Theater

Blue Willow Bookshop

NOVEMBER 23 Take in a show or explore an exhibit

NOVEMBER 24 Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Weekend Pass

Get down to the weekend for a long weekend of fun! Weekend Adventure Pass Valid for FOUR days instead of three!

Thursday – Sunday for $49.99 www.kemahboardwalk.com Kemah Boardwalk All day. All ages

NOVEMBER 25 Disney’s Fantasia (Nov. 25-27)

This Thanksgiving weekend, treat the entire family to the classic that’s captivated generations—Disney’s Fantasia! Stunning animation fills the giant screen at Jones Hall while the Symphony brings the soundtrack to life, including favorites like Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, Pomp and Circumstance, Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite, and, of course, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice. https://houstonsymphony.org/tickets/ concerts/thanksgiving-weekend-disneysfantasia/ Jones Hall

2pm or 8pm. All ages

Houston Ballet: The Nutcracker

A classic tale of adventure for the holiday season. https://www.houstonballet.org/ seasontickets/pdps/2022-2023/thenutcracker/ Jones Hall

photo credit: Polar Express, Texas State Railroad, Palestine, TX 36 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE November 2022

2pm or 7:30pm. All ages

NOVEMBER 26 MOVIES UNDER THE STARS: LIGHTYEAR Forget about trekking to the theater for your movie fix and head to Market Square Park for a free outdoor movie under the stars. https://marketsquarepark.com/calendar/ Market Square Park 7pm. All ages

NOVEMBER 27 Houston Grand Opera presents HGO Digital: Bon Appetit!

Renowned mezzo-soprano and HGO Studio alumna Jamie Barton stars as Julia Child in Lee Hoiby’s one-woman opera. Based on an episode of Child’s TV program, The French Chef, brings audiences into the chef’s storied kitchen as she bakes a chocolate cake. houstongrandopera.org/events-tickets/hgodigital/bon-appetit/ virtual

7:30pm. All ages

NOVEMBER 28 Take in a show or explore an exhibit

NOVEMBER 29 Waugh Bridge Bat Colony

An estimated 300,000 Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from the Waugh Bridge every evening at dusk to find food.

Buffalobayou.org Waugh Bridge Dusk. All ages

Holiday in the Gardens (Nov. 19 – Jan. 7)

Dickens on the Squares (Dec. 2-4)

Stroll through Festival of Lights, a milelong trail of illuminated holiday displays, live music, festive food and more. Other attractions include an Arctic Ice Slide, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4D experience, Holiday 3D films and train rides.

Moodygardens.org

galvestonhistory.org

A Railroad Christmas (Nov. 27 through Dec. 23)

Visitors will have the opportunity to get a photo with Santa as Mr. Claus. On Fridays and Saturdays, guests can enjoy Movies at the Museum in the courtyard. galvestonrrmuseum.org

NOVEMBER 30 Galveston Holiday Events

The holiday season on Galveston Island is full of tradition. This year, the island’s family friendly festivities will continue with new guidelines for social distancing and health safety.

Brush off your bowlers and prepare your petticoats as Galveston Historical Foundation presents the 49th annual Dickens on The Strand. Held the first weekend in December, the annual festival is a holiday tradition with great family programming, live entertainment, special events and more.

Holiday with the Cranes (Dec. 10-11)

Bird lovers can learn about them and see them up close. A presentation and selfguided field trips on the island’s West End is included. galvestonnaturetourism.org

Polar Express in Galveston (Nov. 11 – Dec. 23)

This immersive family-oriented experience makes a great gift.

https://galvestonrrmuseum.org/event/thepolar-express-train-ride/

photo credit: Santa Hustle 5k Run, Galveston 37 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE November 2022

Now Exhibiting

Christmas Tree Lighting Festivities

Museum of Fine Arts Houston www.mfah.org

Tues.-Wed. 10am-5pm., Thurs. 10am-9pm., Fri.-Sat. 10am-7pm., Sun. 12:15-7pm.

Reliant Lights Mayor’s Holiday Spectacular (Nov. 30)

$19 adult; $16 senior 65+, $12 children 13-18 and students (19+) (children 12 and under free).

FREE every Thursday 10am-9pm

Ring in the season with the Mayor's Holiday Spectacular in the heart of downtown Houston. The spectacular event is a holiday tradition of music, lighting the official tree, Santa, and family fun which will be reimagined this year to follow health and safety guidelines.

The Sugar Shack

Barnes painted two versions of The Sugar Shack, which depicts dynamic, elongated figures dancing in a crowded Black music hall in segregated mid-century North Carolina.

houstontx.gov/mayorsholiday

Through December 31, 2022

photo credit: Houston Zoo Lights

Houston Museum of Natural Science www.hmns.org

9am-5pm Mon-Sun

$25 adult, $16 children 3-11, senior 62+ and college students

Zoo Lights (November 18-January 8, 2023)

FREE every Thursday 2-5pm

King Tut’s Tomb Discovery Experience

300,000 LED lights illuminating more than 50 animal-themed light displays, 15 miles of tree-lighting, and seasonal songs and stories. Sip hot chocolate as you stroll through the Zoo and take in the whimsical colorful projections over 15 feet tall, life-size lighted animal sculptures.

Experience the dark and winding tunnels that led to Tutankhamen’s burial chambers, explore the countless golden treasures he took with him into the afterworld, and explore the brightly colored, floor-toceiling hieroglyphics that detail his life and offer prayers to the gods to ensure a blessed life after death.

Through November 30, 2022

houstonzoo.org

The Health Museum www.thehealthmuseum.org

Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9am-5pm., Thurs. 9am-7pm., Sun. 12-5pm

Admission: $10 adult, $8 senior 65+, free for children under 2 FREE on Thursdays 2-7pm

Gaylord Texan’s Lone Star Christmas (November 13 - January 3)

DeBakey Cell Lab

Gear up with a lab coat, gloves and goggles and travel through experiment stations.

Enjoy the magic at Gaylord’s winter wonderland with 2 million lights, a 54- foottall Christmas tree, family events of snow tubing, gingerbread decorating corner and build-a-bear workshop.

Holocaust Museum www.hmh.org

Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm., Sat. 10am-5pm., Sun. 12-5pm

Christmasatgaylordtexan.com

photo credit: Dewberry Farm, Brookshire

Admission: $22 adult, Seniors (age 65 and above) $16, $16 for active-duty military and AARP members. Free for children, students and college-level students with valid ID FREE admission on Sundays

Uptown Holiday Lighting (November 24)

This fun-filled family event kicks off the holiday season with more than half a million twinkling lights, a sparkling electric light parade, an exciting holiday stage show and a special appearance by Santa Claus. The annual festivity will be adapted to follow new health guidelines. uptown-houston.com

Christmas Tree Farms Dewberry Farm

High Star Christmas Tree Farm

dewberryfarm.com

7705 FM 362, Brookshire

Spring Creek Growers springcreekgrowers.com

23803 Decker Prairie-Rosehill Road, Magnolia

Holiday Lighting Celebration (November 24)

The historic Hotel Galvez & Spa invites guests to celebrate the start of the holidays with the official City of Galveston Holiday Lighting Celebration, a special appearance by Santa Claus, and live holiday entertainment by local performers. hotelgalvez.com

Red Caboose Christmas Tree Farm 14558 Tree Farm Road, Magnolia

HOPE: Stories of Houston Survivors This annual exhibition offers a video introduction of Houston Holocaust Survivors featuring family members’ testimonies and clips of Survivors telling their stories. Family artifacts will also be showcased throughout the exhibition.

highstarfarm.com

Through November 30, 2022

Old Time Christmas Tree Farm

Charlotte Salomon: Life? Or Theatre?

19020 Becker Road, Hockleyl

oldtimechristmastree.com

7632 Spring Cypress Rd. Spring

Double Creek Farm doublecreektreefarm.com

1288 Oakdale Loop, Livingston

Discover one of the most important and powerful achievements of the 20th century – the singular and complex artwork Life? Or Theatre? by German-Jewish artist, Charlotte Salomon – which through imagery and text tell the slightly fictionalized and theatrically imagined story of Salomon’s family.

Through December 4, 2022

Lone Star Flight Museum

Visit the aerospace museum and its 25 aircrafts. www.lonestarflight.org Aerospace Museum, Houston

Holiday Acres theholidayacres.com

9029 Mustang Bayou Road, Manvel

Hours: Tues.—Sat. 9am-5pm, Sun. 12-5pm Admission: $14 child, $18 adult

The Texas Aviation Heritage Gallery A chronological walk through the history of aviation in Texas.

38 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE November 2022

INCARNATE WORD ACADEMY

OPEN HOUSE: EXPERIENCE IWA DEC. 4, 2022 | 1:30 - 5:00 P.M. A special opportunity for students and parents

A Catholic college preparatory for young women since 1873 Meet IWA Teachers and Students

Learn about our unique Leadership and STEM programs

Find out how to apply for the 2023 – 2024 school year

Register Now! 609 Crawford Street

39 2022 19||HOUSTON HOUSTON FAMILY FAMILY MAGAZINE MAGAZINENovember October 2022

713.227.3637

CENTER

STAGE Cypress Falls Choir Cypress Falls Choir is the performing and touring Chamber Choir of Cypress Falls High School. Audience will hear the sounds of vocal harmony in this choir performance.

Selections range from pop culture to Western Choral Music. Young Audiences of Houston’s mission is to educate and inspire children through the arts, to make the arts an integral part of the school curriculum, and to advance the field of arts in education through teacher professional development training and community partnerships. https://www.milleroutdoortheatre.com/monthly-schedule/

A Texas Carol

The whole family is on the way to Mee-Maw Jane's East Texas ranch for what might be her last Christmas. The only problem--when the first group arrives, Mee-Maw is already gone! adplayers.org

A.D Players at the George Theater Nov. 30-Dec.23, 2022

A Christmas Carol Magic Music and Dickens

A Classic to get you in the mood for the holiday season. https://www.alleytheatre.org/ Through December 30, 2022

photo credit : Aili Maeve as Cinderella at Main Street Theater

Edward Albee’s Seascape

Cinderella

The timeless magic of the romantic fairy tale of a prince and his Cinderella, and the hilarity of the silly stepsisters and their stepmother, will enchant audiences this holiday season. mainstreettheater.com

Through December 23, 2022

With his signature wit, Albee introduces a middle-aged couple, Nancy and Charlie, taking a stroll on a deserted beach. Facing retirement, they argue with comfortable familiarity about how to spend the rest of their lives.

A Charlie Brown Christmas

https://www.alleytheatre.org/plays/productiondetail/seascape

Charles M. Schulz’s award-winning story has been a longstanding tradition, warming the hearts of millions of fans since it first aired on television over 50 years ago.

Through November 13

http://www.thegrand.com/calendar-of-events/

Fortune

ROCO In Concert: Live at The Church of St. John the Divine. Also featuring our ROCOrooters program, offering a night out for you + music education and childcare for the kids, from 4:30-10:30 pm!

Conductor Delyana Lazarova makes her ROCO debut in a concert inspired by fantasy and fortune, leading two ROCO-commissioned world premieres, including William Bolcom‘s Dedication, orchestrated by Edmund Ciorek, and Judah Adashi‘s the sun begins to fade, as part of ROCO’s FIFteen Project. Also featured will be Finding Rothko by Adam Schoenberg, ROCO’s Season 18 Composer-in-Residence, inspired and accompanied by the visionary abstract paintings of Mark Rothko, along with Caroline Shaw’s elegant Entr’acte for strings. Completing the evening is Joseph Haydn’s Symphony No. 100, also nicknamed the “Military Symphony,” for its vivid second movement musically depicting battle. Tickets are Pay-What-You-Wish.

Saturday, November 12, 2022 | 5:00 pm

The Nutcracker

The ultimate holiday tradition returns with all of the grandeur that audiences love about Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker. The grand sets. The stunning costumes. The iconic score. From snowflakes to sword fights to the Christmas tree that reaches the sky, The Nutcracker truly is the perfect holiday experience for the whole family. Be there as Clara and Drosselmeyer make their journey to the Kingdom of Sweets and meet the Sugar Plum Fairy and her prince in the land where the real magic happens. One of the most splendid ever staged, Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker features hundreds of roles and a myriad of exquisite details that will leave you finding something new in every performance. Tickets start at $35.

November 25 - December 27, 2022. houstonballet.org

ROCO.org

40 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE November 2022

The Story of my Success

A hysterically funny and brilliantly conceived production is a wild look at redefining what success means to you when the world around you changes. https://www.tuts.com/shows/the-secret-ofmy-success Through November 6

REGISTER TODAY

Bring Back the Joy Thanksgiving Camp and Winter Camp

KIDVENTURE.COM 713.960.8989

41 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE November 2022

You can make wonder happen.

There is nothing like the wonder of a young child. But not every child has the same access to education. We are working to change that by providing innovative learning opportunities for Houston’s most vulnerable 0-5-year olds.

If you share our passion for making wonder happen, we invite you to support Collaborative for Children with a year-end gift by texting the keyword “QualityED” to 41444.

Together, we can usher in a future bright with possibility for every child.

JOIN CAMP ALLEN FOR OUR ANNUAL

Holiday Steak Dinner - DECEMBER 7, 2022 at 6:30PM $30 per Adult $12 per Child

Kick off the holiday season at Camp Allen and enjoy a premium cut steak with side dishes and dessert. This gathering is perfect for friends, family, or clients.

Advance reservations are required.

Dress is casual. Cash bar available.

For more info visit campallen.org or call 936.825.7175

42 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE November 2022

A GAYLORD HOTELS ORIGINAL EXPERIENCE

You can’t help but believe in the magic of Christmas at ICE! featuring The Polar Express at Gaylord Texan Resort. See the story come to life, carved out of two million pounds of ice.

NOV. 11 - JAN. 1 | ChristmasAtGaylordTexan.com THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s22)

43 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE November 2022

PRIMARY CARE Personalized to You

Convenient, customized care — close to work or home.

149 1774

Our Houston Methodist primary care doctors provide personalized care for you and your family, including physicals, immunizations and preventive health services.

Many of our practices: • Provide in-person and virtual visits with online scheduling • Offer same-day sick visits • Are conveniently located close to work or home • Accept most major insurance plans

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Your health and safety are our priority. We are taking every necessary precaution to keep you safe.

houstonmethodist.org/pcg 713.394.6724 44 | HOUSTON FAMILY MAGAZINE November 2022

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