For local business owners, we o er two publications to showcase your brand with the most a uent homeowners in these specific co mmunities:
With almost 200,000 readers each month, we are masters at directly connecting your business with the community and telling your story.
Our partnership packages include print, digital, social media, editorial features, and networking events – all for one monthly rate
Partial Heights | River Oaks | Afton Oaks | Highland Village | Rice Military
Partial Upper Kirby | Southampton | Rice Village | West University
Uptown Park | Galleria | Tanglewood | Hedwig Village | Bunker Hill Village Hilshire Village | Spring Valley Village | Hunters Creek Village | City Centre
Town and Country Village | Partial Energy Corridor
When you plan your final tribute in advance with Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, you’ll receive unwavering attention to detail, white-glove service and professional expertise to ensure your place in Houston’s history is everlasting.
A Joyful Farewell to Summer
Our annual Kids & Pets issue is always such a fun one to create, and this year’s edition is filled with family adventures, playful discoveries, creative inspiration, and a few wonderful surprises along the way.
In this issue, we’re taking you to Okana Resort, a year-round, family-friendly destination in the heart of Oklahoma City. It’s the kind of place that feels made for memory-making, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or dreaming up your next family adventure.
You’ll also find Wake Up Houston , a fabulous pictorial highlighting some of the best breakfast spots around town. Because honestly, is there anything better than starting the day with a great cup of coffee, a beautiful plate of breakfast, and a new local favorite?
Our cover story, Houston’s Creative Storytellers, is one I absolutely adore. We’re featuring local children’s book illustrators and their beautiful work, some of which you’ll see right on the cover of this issue. Their creativity, imagination, and talent are truly something special.
I also love what our Managing Editor did with What Teens Want Parents to Know. We asked teens to share what they feel parents may not always fully understand, and their answers gave us such thoughtful, honest insight.
And for a “hole” lot of fun, we’re featuring Holey Moley Golf Club, where you can grab a burger, play mini-golf, and enjoy a little lighthearted summer fun.
You may also notice a new name from me. Going forward, you’ll see Suzanne Grace Everheart. It’s still me, just with a name that reflects this season of living more intentionally, heart-centered, and forward-facing.
Thank you for allowing us to support local businesses and connect the dots with the incredible stories, people, and happenings in our community.
Jennifer Kahlden | jennifer.kahlden@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Katie Giddens | katie.giddens@citylifestyle.com
SALES SUPPORT COORDINATOR
Savannah Schakett
INTERN
Mariana De la Rosa
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Mariana De la Rosa
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Proverbs 3:5-6
Water Adventure
Born in Houston, Texas, award-winning children’s author and illustrator Wallace West creates vibrant stories for young readers. His debut, Mighty Red Riding Hood, earned a Lambda Literary Award, and he illustrated the bestselling Dogtown series . Photography: Wallace West
Photo Credit: Addie Juell Photography
AUGUST 2026
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Elizabeth Deluca, Robin Klaes, Kitsie Klaes Hance, Alice Mao Brams at the 2027 Women of Distinction announcement party. 2: Ruchi Gandhi, Anna McGrath, Kruti Gandhi at Dress for Success Houston’s PowHer Hour wine dinner. 3: Nina Rand and Candace Thomas at Dress for Success Houston’s PowHer Hour wine dinner. 4: Houston designer Christy Lynn Lee at Tootsies’ premier Radiance luncheon. 5: Maddy Moffitt, Melissa Ibarra at Bo’s Place Hats, Hearts, & Horseshoes: A Decade of Derby. 6: Lily Barfield and Jess Einadui at Hunter Bell’s 20th Anniversary party. 7: Sarah Radcliffe, Lindsay Radcliffe, Maria Dorman at Hunter Bell’s 20th Anniversary party.
WILSON PARISH
CAROLINE MAY
DANIEL ORTIZ
DANIEL ORTIZ
DANIEL ORTIZ
WILSON PARRISH
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Natalie Malveaux
business monthly
Thompson Houston Launches Summer Pool Fitness Series with Splash Society
Splash Society is taking over the rooftop pool at Thompson Houston with the most refreshing workout of the season — a playful rhythm-driven experience blending heart-pumping cardio, strength training, and Pilates-inspired movement with panoramic views of downtown Houston. The classes are $85 each and include the 50-minute, high energy aqua aerobics class, a signature aprés class cocktail, access to the pool until 1pm, and a $15 savings on valet is included.
Stewart Beach Competes in Mamba’s Nationwide Summer Sweepstakes
Stewart Beach is in the running for “America’s Favorite Beach” as part of a new nationwide sweepstakes. The program, launched by Mamba, invites fans across the country to vote for their go-to beach, with Stewart Beach representing the Gulf Coast.
• Enter + vote: mambasweepstakes.com
• Grand prize: Fully funded trip for four to the winning beach destination
• Runner-up prizes: 250 winners will receive Mamba-branded beach towels
• Timing: Open now through August 31
Live at the Founders Club 2026–2027
Season Announcement
The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts with presenting sponsor ExxonMobil announce the Live at the Founders Club 2026–2027 Season, an intimate live music club experience showcasing local, national and international talent in a format not commonly offered in Houston. The 2026–2027 Season introduces Signature Artists for the first time including actress, singer, comedian, and SNL alum Ana Gasteyer; Grammy-nominated Brazilian musical icon Babel Gilberto; and acclaimed jazz pianist, composer, and MacArthur fellow Jason Moran.
Photography Courtesy of Thompson Houston
Photography Courtesy of Mamba USA
Photography Courtesy of The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA
IF YOU EAT ONE THING
La Lucha, French Dip Sandwich
SLOW-ROASTED PRIME RIB, LOCAL BREAD, AND RICH JUS MAKE FRIDAYS AT LA LUCHA IRRESISTIBLE.
There are sandwiches, and then there are sandwiches worth planning an entire Friday around. At Houston favorite La Lucha, French Dip Fridays are giving diners a reason to start the weekend on a delicious note. The weekly special features two takes on the beloved sandwich: an East Coast-style version topped with caramelized onions and melted cheese, and a West Coast-style option featuring shaved prime rib and savory jus. Both are layered with horseradish mayo, served with fries, and built around one standout ingredient: slow-roasted prime rib. laluchatx.com
THE MEAT
The foundation of any great French dip is the beef, and La Lucha takes that responsibility seriously. According to Bobby Matos, Culinary Director of La Lucha, prime rib was the natural choice for the sandwich.
"For a French Dip, prime rib is the most common cut and also the most flavorful," says Matos. "We season the meat for a few hours first, then slowly roast it so it becomes nice and tender, while also distributing the flavor throughout. We do this in a way that the meat stays on the rare side."
THE BREAD
A great French dip also needs bread sturdy enough to withstand both the meat and the dipping broth.
"We use Royal Bakery, which is local in the Montrose area," says Matos.
The bread is toasted to create the perfect balance between crunch and durability. "Toasting the bread hard enough keeps it firm so that it holds up to the meat and jus," he says.
THE TOPPINGS
One of the most fun aspects of French Dip Fridays is choosing between the East Coast and West Coast versions. "Most people have a preference between cheese or no cheese," says Matos.
The East Coast version includes caramelized onions and melted cheese, while the West Coast sandwich lets the prime rib take center stage. Guests can add onions to the West Coast style if they prefer. Both sandwiches feature horseradish mayo, a topping Matos says is his personal favorite.
THE JUS
No French dip is complete without the rich broth that gives the sandwich its name. At La Lucha, the jus is more than just a dipping sauce – it's a flavor-packed finishing touch.
"It's flavored with dry-aged, smoked beef fat, and it definitely works as a flavor booster," he adds.
Photo courtesy of Rocket Farm Restaurants
What Teens Want Parents To Know
LOCAL TEENS SHARE HONEST INSIGHTS ON COMMUNICATION, PRESSURE, INDEPENDENCE, AND WHAT THEY WISH PARENTS UNDERSTOOD.
Amanda Jimenez Castro, 16
Boundaries
My parents want me to spend most of my time at home with them, but I wish they understood that I need some time alone to rest after a busy day.
Isabella Delgado, 15
Screen Time
Screen time regulations are great for keeping younger kids safe, but now that I’m in high school, I need extra time on my devices to finish schoolwork and talk to my friends.
David Pena, 16
Autonomy
I want my parents to know I want autonomy. I want to be able to make choices unrestrained by their rules and deal with the consequences without a lesson attached.
Olivia Riemann, 16
Stress
I wish my parents knew that stress is an inevitable part of high school, and that I won’t always be completely organized. A little patience from them can go a long way in helping me.
Responsibility
Responsibility shows up daily in my life, especially in my running practice every morning. I want my parents to know that I’m ready for more independence, as I’ve proven I can handle it.
Miguel Alatorre Juarez, 16
Mariana De la Rosa
Natasha Mar, 16
Pressure
I wish parents knew that putting an overwhelming amount of pressure on their child can be detrimental to their mental health. Having realistic expectations is important, but parents shouldn’t hope for perfection.
Kinley Greene, 16
Mental Health
I want parents to know that many teens who experience mental health issues look completely normal on the outside. To help, parents need to create an environment where their child feels safe to open up.
Trust
I wish my parents knew that trust can look like growth beyond their guidance, especially after high school. I don’t need parents to stop caring; instead, I need them to step back and trust me.
Preston Nguyen, 19
Expectations
I wish my parents understood that while I appreciate their high expectations, constantly trying to meet them can be exhausting. I believe a good balance between their wishes and reality fosters both motivation and emotional stability.
Stress
One thing I wish my parents understood is that stress comes from a variety of things, like classmates, grades, and sports, and that high expectations often add to it.
Failure
Failure is a big part of the learning process; I want parents to know that showing patience and grace when their child fails helps motivate them to try again and succeed.
ARTICLE BY MARIANA DE LA ROSA
Antonio De la Rosa, 18
Carmen Gutierrez, 16
Micaela Delgado, 19
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA
OKANA RESORT IS A YEAR-ROUND, FAMILY-FRIENDLY DESTINATION WITH THRILLING WATER ATTRACTIONS, CULTURAL TOUCHES, AND LUXURIOUS AMENITIES IN OKLAHOMA CITY.
AN ENDLESS WATER ADVENTURE
The 100,000-squarefoot indoor waterpark offers year-round slides, waves, and surf thrills.
Okana Resort and Indoor Waterpark is a sprawling, state-of-the-art destination devoted entirely to water-fueled excitement. Located in the heart of Oklahoma City, the family-friendly attraction boasts the fourth-largest pool in the country and the region's largest indoor waterpark at an impressive 100,000 square feet. Okana is also home to the steepest water coaster drop in the U.S., making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers.
Owned and operated by the Chickasaw Nation, the resort takes its name from the Chickasaw words Okah (water) and Ikana (friend). As the only tribal-owned resort in the city, guests will find thoughtful nods throughout the property to Oklahoma's 39 tribal nations. From the moment they arrive, guests are ushered into the brightly colored lobby with a welcome drink and snack, where two largerthan-life murals by First American artists set the tone for a culturally rich experience.
INDOOR WATERPARK
Set at a balmy 82 degrees, Okana's indoor waterpark is ready to welcome visitors year-round. Featuring 15 slides, a surfing simulator, lazy river, and wave pool, there is no shortage of thrills. There are also separate areas dedicated to young children and adults 21+, ensuring something for every age group. When it's time to relax, guests can grab a bite from the concession stands, lounge in the ample seating, or unwind in a private cabana.
OKANA BEACH
Open for summer fun beginning on Memorial Day each year, Okana Beach is the place to be for outdoor water-filled fun. Despite large crowds, the
THE FAMILY-FRIENDLY ATTRACTION BOASTS THE FOURTH-LARGEST POOL IN THE COUNTRY AND THE REGION’S LARGEST INDOOR WATERPARK AT AN IMPRESSIVE 100,000 SQUARE FEET .
Kids splash, climb, slide, and explore endless adventures across Okana’s exciting water attractions.
From smoked ribs to Tex-Mex and ice cream, Okana’s dining scene satisfies every craving.
expansive pool feels endless, making it easy to enjoy plenty of room with family and friends. The white sand beach, made from 90 truckloads of imported sand, adds to the tropical vibes. Guests can choose to lounge in rows of sun chairs lining the water's edge or rent one of nearly 30 private cabanas, each with its own ceiling fan, television, and curtains to fully enclose the space for more privacy.
While kids burn off energy on outdoor attractions like an inflatable obstacle course, zipline, slides, and diving boards, adults can unwind in a dedicated 21+ pool or sip cocktails at the swim-up bar designed just for grown-ups.
EVEN MORE AMENITIES
The resort offers plenty beyond the water attractions, including a massive 20,000-square-foot family entertainment zone with an arcade, VR experiences, laser tag, and great prizes. Those looking for relaxation can visit the resort's full-service spa, which features a full menu of beauty and spa treatments, including massage and facials.
At the Dock Shop, one of the resort's on-site boutiques, guests can browse a selection of gifts and souvenirs. Many items are sourced from First American and local Oklahoma businesses, making it easy to support the region's artisans and makers
.
SIP & SAVOR
When hunger strikes, there are 13 on-site dining spots to choose from. Highlights include Jack Rabbit, a gastropub serving elevated twists on comfort food, and Smokehouse Social, known for crowd-pleasers like smoked pork ribs and burnt-end queso. Chido's offers delicious Tex-Mex, and the popular Okana Candy Co. serves up sweet treats, including premium ice cream and Bedré Fine Chocolates.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Those staying overnight can choose from 10 different room and suite styles ranging from 420 to 720 square feet. Each features Native American-inspired design elements, including woven headboards and art, large-screen TVs, and views of the Oklahoma River, Okana Beach, or city skyline. okanaresort.com
Guests enjoy year-round water adventures, relaxing cabanas, and family fun throughout Okana Resort's attractions.
Simply Sherry, a Mother-Daughters team working together to create one of a kind experiences. We are a full-service Design and Event planning service. We partner with our select vendors to create unique and personalized events. We specialize in bespoke balloon designs of all sizes, themes, occasions and holiday decor. Servicing residential and commercial clients.
WAKE UP, HOUSTON
DISCOVER HOUSTON’S BEST BREAKFAST SPOTS, SERVING FLUFFY PANCAKES, EXPERTLY BREWED COFFEE, AND SIGNATURE DISHES THAT MAKE EVERY MORNING MEMORABLE.
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA
Latuli, Desayuno Bourunda.
Photo courtesy of Luatuli
Island Grill, Breakfast Pita.
Photo by Becca Wright
Dandelion Cafe, Biscuits and Gravy. Photo by Becca Wright
Meet Houston’s children’s book illustrators and discover how their artwork inspires imagination, curiosity, and storytelling.
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA
Houston's children's book illustrators use art and storytelling to spark imagination, curiosity, and creativity in young readers. Illustration by J.J. Huerta
WHAT FIRST DREW YOU TO ILLUSTRATION?
I’ve been drawing for as long as I can remember. As a kid, I loved making up funny stories about characters and adventures to share with my friends, and drawing became my way of bringing those ideas to life. I think that’s where my love for illustration really began, combining storytelling, creativity, and art into one passion that has stayed with me.
CHILDREN’S BOOKS OFTEN BECOME CHERISHED CHILDHOOD MEMORIES. DO YOU FEEL A RESPONSIBILITY AS AN ILLUSTRATOR IN SHAPING A YOUNG READER’S IMAGINATION?
Some of the images we see as children stay with us forever, and I take that very seriously. My mother, who was also a teacher and an avid reader, once brought home a geography textbook, and I
still remember being fascinated by it. The illustrations sparked my curiosity about science, nature, and the world around me, and of course, inspired me to draw my own volcanoes, dinosaurs, animals, and imaginary adventures.
As an educator, I want children to look closely, ask questions, and discover something new while enjoying the story. If a child spends an extra minute exploring an illustration and walks away feeling curious about the world around them, that’s a win for me.
HOW HAS LIVING AND WORKING IN HOUSTON INFLUENCED YOU?
Houston is a fascinating city that has influenced me greatly. After nearly 30 years of living here, teaching visual arts, photographing families, and creating artwork, I’ve had the opportunity to learn from people from all over the world. jjhuerta.com
Artist, Illustrator, Educator
J.J. Huerta
Houston illustrator J.J. Huerta creates artwork that inspires curiosity and imagination.
Illustrator Amira Ramadan transforms complex ideas into engaging visuals for young readers.
Amira Ramadan
and Illustrator
WAS THERE A PARTICULAR BOOK, ARTIST, TEACHER, OR CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCE THAT INSPIRED YOUR CAREER PATH?
I can’t point to one specific book, artist, or teacher that inspired me. Instead, I was inspired by the illustrations all around me. As a child, I loved copying pictures from books and studying every detail: the patterns, textures, backgrounds, and character designs. I found inspiration in storybooks, magazines, advertisements, and even my own toys. Looking back, those images created a visual library in my mind that helped me develop my artistic skills and creativity.
WHAT’S THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR JOB?
I love taking complex ideas and transforming them into illustrations that young children can understand and enjoy. It’s especially
rewarding when I share my work with children and watch them notice the details, follow the story’s sequence, and connect with the illustrations before they even read the text. Such moments remind me of the power of visual storytelling.
WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE ARE OFTEN SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT THE WORK OF AN ILLUSTRATOR?
Most people are surprised by how much work goes into creating an illustration. The process has many steps, from brainstorming and sketching to storyboards, character designs, color palette selection, and final edits. Illustration is much more than drawing a beautiful picture; it involves storytelling, problem-solving, and many creative decisions along the way. miroartz.com
Artist
Award-winning illustrator Wallace West brings humor, creativity, and adventure to children's books.
Wallace West
Award-winning author and New York Timesbestselling Illustrator
WHAT’S THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR JOB?
Visiting elementary schools. I get to show the drawing of an elephant I did at age four. I get to answer incredible questions. And— my favorite—I get to draw dogs and birds and snakes on a giant flip pad for a cheering audience. It’s like a party every time.
WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE ARE OFTEN SURPRISED TO LEARN ABOUT THE WORK OF AN ILLUSTRATOR?
People are stunned when I say I’ve usually never met, seen, or spoken to an author when I’m hired to illustrate their work. They’re also pretty surprised when they hear that my favorite studio background noise is scary slasher horror films.
HAVE YOU EVER HIDDEN A PERSONAL DETAIL OR INSIDE JOKE IN ONE OF YOUR ILLUSTRATIONS?
I’m constantly referencing movies. In one of my books, a character’s mother looks like Shelley Duvall in The Shining. I made three dogs look like three different versions of Madonna in another book. And I squeeze in iconic quotes wherever I can.
WHAT’S SOMETHING TODAY’S CHILDREN RESPOND TO IN ILLUSTRATIONS THAT MIGHT SURPRISE ADULTS?
Kids don’t flinch at dark humor, scary situations, or monsters under the bed. In fact, in my experience, they run right toward them. I have to constantly remind myself, as an adult, not to project adult sentiment, expectations, standards, or insecurities onto my artwork. Kids are curious and cool. Adults can be so jaded that they’re stagnant. wallacewest.com
ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA
From irresistible treats to chic accessories, these picks will charm both pups and humans.
A TOTALLY PAWSOME GIFT GUIDE
Looking for the perfect gift for a pet lover? From durable toys and brain-teasing treat puzzles to custom keepsakes inspired by beloved pups, there’s something for every dog and dog devotee. Whether shopping for a new puppy parent or a lifelong canine enthusiast, these thoughtful finds are guaranteed to earn plenty of tail wags.
Photo by Przemyslaw Iciak
A Hole Lot of Fun
A GIANT BURGER AND MINI GOLF MAKE HOLEY MOLEY A HIT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.
ARTICLE BY RIVER OAKS LIFESTYLE STAFF
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HOLEY MOLEY GOLF CLUB
Families can putt, laugh, and explore quirky challenges throughout Holey Moley's themed courses.
If summer plans call for a little friendly competition and enough food to feed a crowd, Holey Moley Golf Club has both covered. The family-friendly mini golf destination is serving up "The Giant Burger," a massive five-pound creation that's guaranteed to turn heads before the first bite.
Made with three pounds of beef, 12 slices of American cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and red onions, the burger is made for sharing. To make it even more enjoyable, every order arrives tableside with its own drum-roll entrance.
Once the burger challenge is complete, it's time to hit the greens. Holey Moley's three nine-hole courses are packed with quirky obstacles and playful themes. The neon-filled venue is full of photo-worthy moments, karaoke rooms, and quirky merchandise. If hunger strikes again, guests can grab everything from brisket sandwiches and elote corn ribs to pizza and tacos. It's the kind of place where making memories with the family comes just as easily as sinking a putt. holeymoley.com
“Between the five-pound burger, neon-lit mini golf, and playful challenges, Holey Moley turns an ordinary family outing into a larger-than-life summer adventure.”
The Giant Burger arrives with a drum roll and enough beefy goodness to share. Photo by FunLab
ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Ready to give this childhood classic the upgrade it deserves? Whether you’re packing your kid’s lunch or treating yourself to something special, these elevated PB&J creations will make anyone excited for lunchtime.
THE ART OF THE UPSCALE
The secret to an elevated PB&J isn’t complicated—it’s all about premium ingredients and creative combinations. Swap that white bread for artisanal sourdough, brioche, or even croissants. Trade processed jelly for fresh fruit compotes, gourmet preserves, or actual fresh berries that burst with flavor.
Quality nut butters make all the difference. Think creamy almond butter, rich cashew spread, or that perfectly salted natural peanut butter from the farmer’s market. These simple swaps instantly elevate your sandwich from ordinary to extraordinary.
Bread Options
• Artisanal sourdough
• Brioche
• Croissants
• Multigrain bread
• Cinnamon raisin bread
• Hawaiian sweet bread
• Whole wheat bread
• Thick-cut bread (for open-face)
Nut & Seed Butters
• Natural peanut butter
• Almond butter
• Dark chocolate almond butter
• Cashew butter
• Coconut butter
• Nutella
Fresh Fruits
• Strawberries
• Fresh blueberries
• Fresh raspberries
• Fresh peaches
• Kiwi
• Mixed berries
• Bananas
• Pears
Preserves & Sweet Spreads
• Honey
• Fig jam
• Mango preserves
• Raspberry preserves
• Grape jelly
• Marshmallow cream
Toppings & Add-ins
• Fresh mint leaves
• Granola
• Toasted coconut flakes
• Cream cheese
• Everything bagel seasoning
• Dark Chocolate Syrup
TRANSFORM YOUR HUMBLE PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY SANDWICH FROM LUNCH BOX BASIC TO GOURMET GREATNESS
COMBOS TO Try:
The Sophisticated Sweet: Nutella, sliced strawberries, and a drizzle of honey on brioche bread
The Panini Perfection: Peanut butter, fresh blueberries, and marshmallow cream pressed between sourdough slices
The Beautiful Mess: Your favorite nut butter topped with sliced fresh peaches, kiwi, or berries, then drizzled with golden honey or sprinkled with toasted coconut on thick-cut bread
The Grown-Up Classic: Almond butter, fig jam, and thinly sliced pears on multigrain bread
The Breakfast Crossover: Cashew butter, sliced bananas, and a sprinkle of granola on cinnamon raisin bread
The Tropical Twist: Coconut butter, mango preserves, and toasted coconut flakes on Hawaiian sweet bread
The Chocolate Dream: Dark chocolate almond butter, raspberry preserves, and fresh mint leaves on whole wheat
The Savory Surprise: Natural peanut butter, grape jelly, and a thin layer of cream cheese with everything bagel seasoning
PRO TIPS FOR LUNCHBOX SUCCESS
Toast your bread lightly for extra texture, even if you’re making it ahead. Create a barrier with your spread to prevent soggy sandwiches—apply nut butter to both sides, then add your sweet elements in the middle. Pack fresh elements separately and assemble just before eating when possible.
Cut into fun shapes with cookie cutters, wrap in parchment paper tied with twine, or pack in a bento box with complementary sides like apple slices, fancy crackers, or dark chocolate squares.
THE BOTTOM LINE
An elevated PB&J proves that sometimes the best meals come from taking something familiar and making it special. These upgraded versions will have everyone asking for the recipe—and maybe even offering to trade lunches.
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
Lymphatic Drainage Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) Red Light Therapy
PEMF Therapy
Superfoods & Supplements And more
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 1ST
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live: Glow-N-Fire
Toyota Center | 6:30 PM
Fans and families will be among the first to see the all-new Rhinomite truck, plus never-before-seen stunts by the Hot Wheels Monster Trucks, and thrilling tricks like the all-new No-Handed Front Flip performed by the FMX riders. Don’t miss the ultimate monster truck show this summer.
AUGUST 6TH
John Mellencamp Dancing Words Tour The Greatest Hits
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion | 8:00 PM
John Mellencamp’s Dancing Words Tour — The Greatest Hits is a landmark 19-city trek. It marks the first time he will perform all of his most beloved songs in a single night—including tracks like "Jack and Diane," "Small Town," and "Hurts So Good," plus long-unplayed classics like "R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A."
AUGUST 7TH
Morgan Freeman's Symphonic Blues Experience
Wortham Center | 7:00 PM
Step into a world where the deep, resonant tones of Mississippi Delta Blues meet the majesty of a symphony orchestra. Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience is a groundbreaking live concert experience that transcends time, weaving the deep-rooted history of the Blues with the grandeur of orchestral music. Guided by the legendary voice of Academy Award®-winning cinema legend Morgan Freeman.
AUGUST 7TH
Houston Horror Film Fest
The Houston Marriott Westchase | 5:00 PM
The Houston Horror Film Fest is the city’s largest premier Horror Film Festival and Expo. This three-day celebration features more than 70 horror films, special celebrity guests, exclusive Q&A panels, and an expansive vendor hall with over 100 artists, filmmakers, authors, memorabilia dealers, apparel makers, and more.
AUGUST 21ST
Santana & The Doobie Brothers - Oneness Tour 2026
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion | 7:00 PM
The Oneness Tour 2026 pairs two of rock's most iconic acts—Santana and The Doobie Brothers—for a massive North American co-headlining run. The tour features high-energy performances from both bands, with The Doobie Brothers playing their classic hits and material from their album Walk This Road, while Santana closes the night with a career-spanning set.
AUGUST 28TH
Mariachi Festival
Wortham Theater | 7:00 PM
Celebrate the incredible talent rising in our community. Experience the energy of Houston’s own collegiate and high school stars as they take the stage to kick off the 2026 Festival. This night, all are encouraged to wear guayaberas and traditional Mexican dresses.
Taste the Savings
Join us for Happy Hour Tuesday through Friday—kickstarting the week with all-day deals on Tuesdays and Wednesdays! Enjoy crave-worthy bites and refreshing drinks at feel-good prices. Bring your friends, bring your appetite, and let the good times pour.
