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May 07, 2023

Katy, TX News (September 15, 2017) – In June, the Katy Area Economic Development Council conducted a survey focused on the Katy area workforce. The survey, which was organized in partnership with the newly created Katy, TX Human Resources Networking Group, was formulated to gather information from human resources managers/recruiters and business leaders on workforce trends in the Katy area.

Approximately 21 companies representing over 3,300 employees in industries ranging from energy to healthcare took part in the voluntary survey which was open to all Katy area companies. The information gathered will provide useful data for benchmarking and workforce development purposes.

Overall, the survey highlighted numerous workforce trends in the Katy area. Respondents made it clear they believe the Katy area provides strong access to a quality labor force, both skilled and non-skilled. Most of the surveyed companies expect employment growth over the next five years with new jobs requiring highly-skilled employees, particularly in the technology sector. Turnover and absenteeism were noted by companies as being low as well. Please click here for the survey report.

"The information provided will be valuable moving forward as we seek to further enhance the Katy area business climate and labor pool," said Katy Area EDC President/CEO Lance LaCour.

Katy Human Resources Networking Group organizer Lorna Hall of Pepperl+Fuchs added, "We are pleased to be part of the growing Katy Area Economic Development Council, which was instrumental in helping us understand Katy and all of the opportunities available in this community."

Katy Area EDC would like to thank all of the companies that participated as well as the Katy, TX Human Resources Networking Group for its support of the project. Special thanks go to LaCenterra and Katy Mills Mall for providing prizes to be awarded to two survey participants via random drawing.

For more information on Katy Area EDC, please visit katyedc.org.

Katy, TX Blog (June 7, 2017) – Tell dad how much he means to you with a day of fun and new memories at one of these Katy businesses.

EVENTS

Wednesday – Saturday, June 14 – 17, 2017 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Dad's Day Feast Agave Rio 1185 FM 1463

Treat dad to a manly feast featuring one appetizer of his choice, and the choice of an 8 oz. grilled fillet with lump crab hollandaise or 8 oz. Chilean sea bass with lemon herbs, two sides, and a molten lava chocolate cake all for $55. Call 281-665-3337 for reservations.

Friday, June 16, 2017 3:00 p.m. Macho Nacho Night Oh My Stars 1935 Ave. D.

Dads can enjoy a yummy nacho bar while their loving wives shop for their gifts.

Saturday, June 17, 2017 8:30 a.m. Father's Day Breakfast Central Baptist Church 2855 Greenhouse Rd.

Join the CBC family for prayer, breakfast, and fellowship to celebrate all the wonderful fathers in our community. Visit centralbcs.org.

Saturday, June 17, 2017 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Fishing & Fun with Dad Oil Ranch 23501 Macedonia Rd., Hockley

Dad's get free admission when you mention their Facebook ad. Bring a fishing pole and bait for a quiet, relaxing day on the ranch or shoot some targets. The swimming pool is open as well.

Sunday, June 18, 2017 10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Father's Day Brunch Las Alamedas Mexican Restaurant and Bar 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd.

Treat dad to a meal that includes all his favorites like beef and chicken fajitas, pollo en mole poblano, snapper, salmon, waffles, bacon, and more. Adults are $34.95, children ages five through 12 $12.95, children four and under are free.

Sunday, June 18, 2017 12:30 – 5:30 p.m. Father's Day Appreciation Cane Island 2100 Cane Island Pkwy.

Cane Island dads can stop by the Welcome Center for special mustache cookies. Visit caneisland.com.

SPECIALS

Abuelo's Mexican Restaurant Dad receives a special gift when you dine on Father's Day, June 18.

Alamo Drafthouse Mason Park Get 25% off when you spend $100 or more with dad.

Boardroom Salon for Men – LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch Get 50% off annual Boardroom memberships, a free hand grooming with the purchase of a $100 gift card, or buy two, get the third 50% off all Black Jack Products on Fathers Day, June 18.

Splashway Waterpark & Campgrounds Dad's get in free on Father's Day when accompanied by a paying guest.

TCBY Bring dad in for a free, 6 oz. frozen yogurt on Father's Day.

Tilt Studio Buy one attraction, get one free on Father's Day, June 18.

Typhoon Texas Dad's get in free on Father's Day when you purchase a regularly priced above 48″, single-day ticket.

Katy, Texas Blog (June 13, 2017) – Texas Children's Hospital shares important information on the definition of secondary drowning, dry drowning, and how Katy families can take action if their child is submerged in water.

Recently, a mother posted on her blog, "Delighted Momma," the story of her almost 2-year-old son developing significant breathing problems after a brief, less than 20 second, submersion in the spa. Because he seemed "totally fine after he had calmed down," she decided to take him home rather than seeking medical care. Within an hour or so, her son seemed overly tired and began coughing, so she immediately took him to the closest emergency center. A chest x-ray showed that he had likely aspirated some of the water, which caused his lungs to not function normally. Fortunately, he was discharged after a 24-hour observation at a pediatric children's hospital, but the parental/public interest in "secondary drowning" after her blog went viral remains a significant topic of discussion! What is "secondary drowning"?

"Secondary drowning" is a confusing misnomer that has been used to describe delayed-onset breathing problems in a child who seems to be recovering after a submersion event. When referring to "secondary drowning," most people are referring to the complications that occur as a result of aspiration of water into the lungs. When a child aspirates any foreign substances, including fresh/salt/chlorinated water or vomit, it can cause progressive injury and inflammation within the lungs. As the lungs become more ineffective and fluid accumulates within the lungs, symptoms such as coughing, fast breathing, increased work of breathing, low oxygen levels, and altered mental status (irritability or lethargy) may quickly occur. Luckily, most healthy children who appear well after a submersion aspirate only small amounts of water, if any, and will recover spontaneously.

What do I do if my child is found under water?

If your child is unconscious, not breathing, and/or without a pulse, immediately give 5 rescue breaths, start effective CPR, and have a bystander call 911. If your child begins to vomit, gently roll your child to his/her side so that he/she does not aspirate the secretions. Also, be sure to keep your child's neck immobilized in a straight, midline position if any trauma has occurred to your child's head or neck (i.e., while diving in the shallow end of the pool).

If your child is awake and well-appearing after a submersion, keep your child warm/dry and call your pediatrician for further recommendations. Because most symptoms of non-fatal drowning occur within 6-8 hours from the submersion, it would be important to keep a close eye on your child and watch for breathing difficulties, skin color changes, persistent vomiting, or abnormal behavior. If any of these symptoms occur, you should seek medical care immediately.

What should I expect in the emergency center?

Dependent on the submersion events and your child's vital signs and examination, your physician will likely order a chest x-ray and possibly some blood tests. If your child's examination and x-ray and lab results are normal, he/she may be observed in the emergency center until it's been approximately 6 hours from the submersion. So long as your child continues to appear well while in the emergency center, he/she will likely be discharged home with detailed return precautions.

However, if your child's examination and/or workup are abnormal, he/she will be admitted for supportive care (i.e., oxygen, breathing treatments, intravenous fluids, etc.) and observation. Children who are very sick with decreased/lack of responsiveness, severe breathing difficulties, or very low oxygen levels are typically admitted to a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) for increased respiratory support/treatment and close monitoring.

Childhood drowning is quick and quiet!

Drowning is the second-leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages 1 to 14 years, with the highest rate of drowning in the 0- to 4-year-old age group. According to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services website, 18 Texas children have already drowned since January 2014. And, at Texas Children's Hospital, we have seen 67 near-drownings and 6 drownings between April 2013 and April 2014.

The "Delighted Momma" blog has not only brought "secondary drowning" into the spotlight, but also the fact that childhood drownings happen unexpectedly, quickly, and quietly! Lindsay Kujawa was sitting near her child and for "less than five seconds", turned to speak with a family member, while her child silently slipped under water. Unfortunately, this type of scenario is common, and I cannot tell you the number of times that parents have similarly told me they turned away from their child for "just a second"…to look for another child, converse with a friend, or make a quick meal….prior to finding their child in a pool, bathtub, or bucket/ice chest. Please take the necessary steps to protect your children while they’re in or around water…enclose and cover pools and hot tubs, safety proof your home (shut bathroom doors, safety-lock toilet seats, drain bathtubs, empty ice chests and buckets filled with water), enroll your children in water safety and swim classes, continuously (touch)-supervise or designate a responsible adult to watch over your children, and learn first aid and CPR!

Katy, Texas Blog (June 7, 2017) – Free breakfast and lunch will be provided to all children ages 18 and under at no cost this summer. Dates and locations below.

Breakfast served from 8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. | Lunch served from 10 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Courtesy of the USDA

Katy, TX Blog (June 5, 2017) – Seven Lakes High School graduate Caitlin Ricketts is now traveling the world modeling for top name brands

Written by Debbie McDaniel

As a young girl growing up in Katy, Texas, Caitlin Ricketts only dreamed of the life she's now living as a model for the Wilhelmina Agency in New York City. "I love being from Katy and I’m so happy I have all of my family still in Katy to come home to," she says. She grew up in Katy ISD, attending Roosevelt Alexander Elementary School, Beckendorff Junior High School, and Seven Lakes High School. "I have lived in New York City for years now, but Katy will always be my home and a place to bring me back to reality."

A Big Break Ricketts was introduced to modeling at a young age. "I started modeling when I was a baby for brands like Foley's and Palais Royal and stopped when I was about 5 years old. It wasn't until I was 14 when my older sister Chelsea convinced me to try it out again and go to an open call for Abercrombie." Ricketts shares how she ended up booking the job, and saw that she loved it. "I realized then how much fun and exciting it was!" The Abercrombie job jump-started her career. "It just took off after that," she adds. Ricketts went on to sign with the New York agency Wilhelmina Models when she was 16. She moved to NYC and has been there five years now, modeling full time. "Since then, I’ve worked for brands like CoverGirl, which was one of my big dreams, Maybelline, and Garnier, and have had the opportunity to live in so many amazing countries such as South Korea, London, Japan, and Australia," she says.

Traveling, People, & Projects She shares that while traveling is one of the most exciting parts of her job, it can also be one of the most challenging. "I’m thankful for the chance to travel the world, and even though it can be hard to be gone for months at a time, I wouldn't change a thing about it," says Ricketts, who has been to 26 countries in the last few years. "My next stop is Iceland and I can't wait." Another fun part of her career are the people and projects. "I have had the chance to work with so many talented people like Bruce Weber and Bobbi Brown. I also had the pleasure of being a part of so many fun ads for brands such as LeSportsac and Kendra Scott, and magazines like Glamour and Shape."

A career in modeling may seem glamorous, but Ricketts still embraces the Texas girl she truly is. "I love Tex-Mex, burgers and fries, and of course, some good ole’ Texas barbeque," she laughs. "I grew up going to the rodeo every year and spent Friday nights dancing with my high school drill team during football season. I still cheer on the Texans from NYC and am a big fan of JJ Watt."

Ricketts says she treasures her family, and also loves a glass of red wine and an episode of Game of Thrones. A great sense of humor is vital in her life and industry, and she recalls one of her most embarrassing moments. "I embarrass myself daily, but one memory that sticks out the most is when I dropped a shampoo bottle in a store and it busted open. I then ended up slipping in the mess and falling on my face right in front of the checkout line."

Being looked to as a fashion icon isn't always easy, but she describes her style as a mix of being very feminine and girly one day, to being very tomboy and gothic the next. "My style is ever-changing," she adds. Ricketts encourages other young women to embrace their dreams and go after them no matter how big or small they might seem. She says her favorite quote has always been, "Here's to strong women. May we know them, may we be them, may we raise them." KM

CAITLIN SIGHTINGS

Katy, TX (June 2, 2017) The drum roll from the Seven Lakes Junior High Band marked the official groundbreaking on Elementary #41, which is set to be built in the fairly new community of Cross Creek Ranch.

This new campus is being made possible in part from savings from the 2014 bond and will serve to address growing enrollment taking place throughout Katy ISD. The campus features diverse and transformative spaces that will blend learning with technology and opportunities for deepened engagement.

"In this area, we have four elementary schools which have opened up within the last five years and all of them have exceeded maximum capacity," said Superintendent Lance Hindt. "Elementary #41 will probably also open up near maximum capacity."

Newly appointed Katy ISD Board of Trustees President Ashley Vann along with other board members also participated in the commemorative event. "The growth you see here in Katy serves as a testimony to the community, the culture and the legacy that we have built here together," added Vann.

Katy, TX (June 1, 2017) Katy ISD recognized 88 high school seniors who were chosen by their campus administration for their dedication, perseverance and achievement during the 2016-2017 school year. Alongside each one of them, an outstanding teacher, who was selected by the student, was also acknowledged for having a profound impact in that student's life.

These students are the finest example of the character and commitment of the Katy ISD community. Their passion for excelling embodies the Katy ISD mission and vision to prepare and inspire each student to live an honorable, fulfilling life….to create the future.

"The accomplishments of this senior class are outstanding," said Superintendent Lance Hindt during the ceremony. "It is gratifying to know that Katy ISD will be well represented in colleges, universities, the military and the work force throughout our nation."

Congratulations to the Class of 2017 Awards of Excellence winners!

Katy, TX Blog (June 1, 2017) – Today is National Donut Day. Go nuts with donuts at these local shops and restaurants:

Shipley Do-Nuts 1135 S. Mason Rd. 20077 Katy Fwy. 27110 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 3811 N. Fry Rd. Get a free glazed donut with any purchase.

Dunkin’ Donuts 3061 N. Fry Rd.

Free classic donut with the purchase of any beverage.

Tom + Chee 21788 Katy Fwy.

Grilled cheese donut sandwiches are $2 all day.

The Grove Do-Nutz & Deli 815 Plantation Dr.

One free glazed donut with any purchase. One per customer while supplies last.

More Katy, TX Donut Shops

Best Donuts 811 S. Mason Rd.

Daylight Donuts 5160 Franz Rd. 6191 Hwy Blvd.

D’ Lux Donuts & Kolaches 4327 S. Front St., Brookshire

Donuts Delight 23945 Franz Rd.

Donut Shack 21411 Clay Rd.

Fluffy Donuts 6078 N Fry Rd.

Fresh & Best Donuts 1619 S. Fry Rd.

Glaze Doughnuts 5815 Franz Rd.

House of Donuts & Kolaches 3030 Falcon Landing Blvd.

Just Glazed Donuts 6840 S. Mason Rd.

Katy Donuts 23222 Kingsland Blvd.

Mr. Donut & Kolaches 8945 S. Fry Rd.

Riley Donuts 550 Katy Fort Bend Rd.

Simply Splendid Donuts & Kolaches 1797 N. Fry Rd.

Snowflake Donuts 1316 Pin Oak Rd. 1443 FM 1463

Southern Maid Donuts 5508 S. Peek Rd. 5929 FM 1463

Katy, TX Blog (May 30, 2017) – The 2017 Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1 and ends November 30. During these months, Texas is more susceptible to powerful and destructive tropical storms and hurricanes. The City of Katy encourages everyone to assemble a disaster supply kit of emergency supplies including:

Tips:

Helpful Links:

Katy, TX Blog (May 23, 2017) – From dining and dancing to shopping and painting, here are some of our favorite places to connect, unwind, or kick up your heels in Katy.

DINNER & DRINKS

LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 281-395-5533 | lacenterra.com You can't go wrong having dinner at local favorites like Dish Society or Las Alamedas. Take in social hour at Perry's Steakhouse Monday through Friday from 4 to 9 p.m., or relax on the patio at World of Beer.

Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar 23139 Grand Circle Blvd. 832-430-2253 | whiskeycakekaty.com Sorry boys, Wednesdays are all about the ladies. They have half off all wine bottles and glasses and other food and drink specials during their social hours on weekdays from 3 to 6 p.m. and 9 to 11 p.m.

Agave Rio Restaurant & Patio Oasis 1138 FM 1463 281-665-3337 | agaverio.com This tropical patio oasis has an adults-only patio section with live music on weekends. Catch up over wine and yummy appetizers, and make sure to try their Agave Mule signature cocktail. You’ll feel like you’re at a resort!

The Cellar Door 829 S. Mason Rd. 281-599-3303 | cellardoorkaty.com Jazz it up with a live performance by trumpeter Preston Smith every Sunday night at 6 p.m. They have incredible wine selections and a delectable menu.

Dekker's Mesquite Grill 8506 Syms St., Fulshear 281-533-0909 | dekkersmesquitegrill.net Dekker's has a super spacious outdoor deck that's perfect for a girls’ gatherings, great food, and happy hour Monday through Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m.

MidPoint Bar & Eatery 20920 Katy Fwy. 281-829-3749 | midpointbar.com Fancy a milkshake? This local favorite features "adult" milkshakes in flavors like pineapple upside down, chocolate stout, and salted caramel in addition to an extensive wine and food menu.

MOVIES

Cinemark 19 and XD 1030 West Grand Pkwy. N. 281-371-6008 | cinemark.com With their new plush comfy recliners, huge screens, and reserved seating options, Cinemark has it all…including cocktails!

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema 531 S. Mason Rd. 281-492-6900 | drafthouse.com Alamo has all of those classic "slumber party" movies like Clueless, Mean Girls, and Pretty in Pink, plus chairside service and a great menu make for an unforgettable evening.

PAINTING

A Painting Fiesta 6734 Westheimer Lakes N. Dr. 832-437-4359 | apaintingfiesta.com Throw on a smock and enjoy one of their many fun, step-bystep painting classes. You can also decorate your very own wine glass with friends, so BYOB.

DANCING

Arthur Murray Dance Studio 3750 S. Mason Rd. 832-916-5500 | dancelessonshouston.com Schedule a girlfriends’ group class and have a great time learning salsa, line dancing, and more.

HISTORIC KATY

No Label Brewing Co. 5351 1st St. 281-693-7545 | nolabelbrew.com Schedule a tour of the brewery to find out how craft beers are made or participate in one of their Paint on Tap events.

KT Antiques 5614 2nd St. 281-391-2299 | ktantiques.net Venture to historic Katy and check out the vintage treasures at KT Antiques. Fun collectibles, jewelry, decor, dishware, vintage signage, and much more.

TEA & TREATS

Leafology Tea Lounge 9006 S. Fry Rd. | 832-913-8707 27131

Cinco Ranch Blvd. | 832-913-6030 leafologytealounge.com Leafology has elegaant padded booth seating, free wifi, and too many delicious specialty teas, smoothies, and slushies to list. They also have affordable food. A dozen of their famous potstickers costs only $3.59! Hang out as long as you like.

Proud Pie 3522 S. Mason Rd. 281-392-2203 | proudpie.com For girls with a sweet tooth, Proud Pie serves delicious, amazing pies in flavors like bananas foster, snickerdoodle, state fair caramel apple, and bourbon pecan, to name a few. They sometimes offer Pie Bingo so call ahead!

Cocohodo 1645 Winding Hollow Dr. 832-321-5849 | cocohodo.us Cocohodo is known for their Korean walnut-shaped pastries, but they also serve specialty crepes and liquid nitrogen ice cream for every palate. KM

Katy, TX Blog (May 22, 2017) – LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch will now be offering shuttle and valet to the public for free.

Visit lacenterra.com.

Katy, TX Blog (May 10, 2017) – Unique Summer Camps for girls ages 12 – 15 in Katy, Texas

Written by Katrina Katsarelis

Be Unique is a new program offering Teen Camps designed to empower girls to recognize their unique qualities, increase self-confidence, and develop a mature Christian perspective. All camps include the guidance in creating a sophisticated and well-rounded young lady who is confident within herself, secure in her environment, and has a positive direction for her life. Call for dates. Space is limited.

INNER BEAUTY CAMP Girls will learn about self-confidence, developing a healthy lifestyle, and identifying her greatest strengths. Choose one of two five-day sessions, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

DAYTIME MAKEUP CAMP This program teaches skin care routines, facial symmetry, use of foundation, highlighter and contour, liquid eyeliner, and much more! Choose one of three five-day sessions, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

VISUAL POISE CAMP Lessons will be given in the importance of conversation, posture and walking, social stances and hand positions, the art of writing thank you notes, and more. Skills are tested in a final three-course lunch on the last day of camp. Choose one of two five-day sessions, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

"COLOR ME BEAUTIFUL" FASHION WORKSHOP Topics include knowledge of clothing styles, necklines, skirt lengths, handbag styles, use of belts, accessorizing, and more. Offering one four-day sessions, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

HEALTH AND NUTRITION CAMP Emphasizing the balance of body, mind, and soul, this camp covers the importance of body care, antioxidants, making healthy choices, portion size, and more. A healthy lunch is included. Choose one of two two-day sessions, 10 a.m. to 1p.m. KM

BE UNIQUE 5529 FM 359, Richmond 281-394-7004 beuniquetoday.com GOT A CAMP? List it here.

Visit our Katy Magazine Summer Camp Facebook page!

Katy, TX Blog (May 10, 2017) – We’ve got something for every kind of Katy kid!

Written by Kennan Buckner and Katy Magazine's Editors

Take a look at these area summer camp offerings to find the perfect camp connection for your Katy kid. Regardless of what your child is interested in, there's a camp available for making summer memories last a lifetime.

THE DANCER Becky's Academy of Dance 2501 S. Mason Rd. 281-398-9226

beckysonline.com

Becky's offers day camps for kids kindergarten through sixth grade, as well as dance and drill prep camp for junior high and high school students. Connolly Dance Arts 22760 Westheimer Pkwy. 281-693-1232 connollydancearts.com Dancers kindergarten through sixth grade can attend dance intensives. Dance and drill team prep is also offered for junior high and high school students.

THE MUSICIAN The Conservatory of Music 23922 Cinco Village Center Blvd. 3719 N. Fry Rd. 832-437-4511 | 832-321-3382 cincoranchmusic.com

Guitar camps are held July 10 through14. Camp A is designed for the camper with no prior knowledge of the guitar for ages 8 to 12. Camp B is for ages 13 to 15. The camps are two hours daily, Mon through Fri. Camp guitar materials and camp T-shirt included in price. Call for details.

THE ARTIST A Painting Fiesta 16734 Westheimer Lakes N. 832-437-4359 paintingfiesta.com

Campers can choose to attend a full-day or a half-day, but either way they are going to have a great time getting their hands dirty and learning some great painting skills. Snacks and materials are included in the cost.

THE FIT KID

ESN Health Healthy Kids Camp 2770 FM 1463 281-395-0827 esn-online.com Kids ages 8 to 12 will participate in daily fitness games, make fun crafts, and assist in preparing healthy snacks in the ESN Healthy Kitchen. Camp runs June 19 through June 22 from 12 to 3 p.m.

THE HORSE WHISPERER Circle Lake Ranch 1102 Circle Lake Dr. 281-395-4311 circlelakeranch.com

A horseback adventure awaits your animal loving campers ages 6 to 12 at Circle Lake Ranch's horseback riding lesson camps. Learn riding and horse care. They have an fantastic indoor classroom, too! Camps are held 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. weekdays. The camps run through August. Register early.

THE SCIENTIST Club SciKidz 700 S. Westgreen Blvd. CrossPoint Community Church 713-589-8958 houtson.clubscikidz.com

Outstanding week long science and technology day camps for first through eighth graders. Kids love their themed programs like space engineer, emergency medicine, programming, special effects, video game maker, grossology, chemistry concoctions, jurassic, quadcopter aerial robotics, and more.

THE VETERINARIAN Citizens for Animal Protection 17555 Katy Fwy. 281-497-0591 cap4pets.org

Kids & Kritters camp is the place for future veterinarians in third through sixth grade. Campers will enjoy games and crafts as well as hands-on animal experiences. Enroll early!

THE BILINGUIST Spanish Learning Castle 5024 E. 5th St. 832-437-6479 spanishlearningcastle.com

A unique Spanish immersion summer camp with themes like safari adventure, dramatic play, and two weeks of under the sea adventure. Camps are offered through July 24 for ages 18 months to 7 years old from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with extended hours available.

Listo Translating Services & More 830 S. Mason Rd. Suite B2-A 713-206-9744 houston-translation.com

A terrific way for kids ages 3 to17 to learn Spanish while enjoying summertime fun. Listo offers three different camps: Children's Spanish immersion summer camp, bilingual art camp, and summer AP language camp. Visit the website for more information.

THE WORLD TRAVELER Montessori Kids Universe 2004 S. Mason Rd. 713-344-1640 montessorikidskaty.com

Kids will be able to stamp their passports as they travel around the world this summer. Students kindergarten and up will "visit" several interesting countries exploring the culture through activities and hands-on projects and themed traveling fun.

THE CHURCH GOER Camp in the City Multiple Locations in Katy 877-474-6326 pinecove.com

Camp in the City is Pine Cove's summer day camp programs that are offered at local churches. Kidsentering first through sixth grade will enjoy bungee trampolines, water slides, and climbing walls. Camps held at Grace Fellowship UMC (July 10-14), and The Fellowship (August 7-11).

Vacation Bible School Multiple Churches in Katy

Numerous churches are having fun, themed camps for school-age kids. These are usually held in the mornings for a few hours a week. Check with your local church.

THE GYMNAST Katy Kips Gymnastics Club 923 S. Mason Rd. 281-578-5477 katykips.com

Children ages 5 and up will enjoy jumping, bouncing, and tumbling at Katy Kips’ annual summer fun tumbling camp. All day classes are available Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Weekly camps held all summer.

THE WATER LOVER Double T Hideout Typhoon Texas 832-426-7071 typhoontexas.com/camps

Weekly day camp starts with a swim lesson followed by games and activities galore. Offering both full-day and half-day camps for school-age kids. Camps run through August 11, but space is limited so register early.

Aqua-Tots Swim School – Fast Track Swim Camp 1542 W. Grand Pkwy. S. (281)769-8630 www.aqua-tots.com

Fast Track Swim Camp gives children a jump start on their swimming because they receive 10 continuous days of swim lessons. Classes are offered at different levels based on the student's needs. The courses are aimed at children who need to learn to swim or improve their swimming techniques.

THE GIFTED KID Katy GT Academy 21020 Highland Knolls Dr. 281-646-7360 katygtacademy.org

Offering innovative camps like public speaking, young chefs, debate, chess, mental math, origami, critical writing, and many more, Katy GT Academy has something for every kind of advanced learner.

THE ADVENTURER British Private Prep School Multiple Locations in Katy britishprivateprepschool.com

Make memories at one of British Private Prep's summer camps. Themes include lights, camera, action; science adventures; and lions, tigers, and bears! Camp is for students kindergarten through age 12. Includes a camp T-shirt and water carrier. Kids R Kids Multiple Locations in Katy kidsrkids.com

Kids R Kids offer a 10-week summer camp series, where kids explore their hidden talents, passions, and interests. Each boy and girl will experience art and cooking, engineering, community service, and everything in between! The full-day program is open to ages 5 through 12.

Primrose Schools Multiple Locations in Katy primrosesummer.com

These fun-filled, age-appropriate themed camps for ages 2 through 12 include basketball, flag football, soccer, cheerleading, art, robotics, science, drama, fashion design, and more. Camps will be running all summer.

THE FIELD TRIPPER Discovery Schoolhouse 4900 Falcon Landing Blvd 281-698-7234 discovery-schoolhouse.com

Programs are offered for children Pre-K through 13 years old which can be attended either three or five days a week. Children will experience field trips, charitable events, arts and crafts, and so much more. Educational activities include learning a new language, participating in a spelling bee, visiting the public library, and reviewing math skills.

Foundations Academy 20817 Westheimer Pkwy. 281-599-1200 cinco.foundations-academy.com

Students will build a time machine and visit cavemen, dinosaurs, gladiators, outer space, and more. Plus field trips, science experiments, team challenges, cooking, and splash pad play will have your kids wanting to go back each day. Camps run through Aug. 18 for kindergarten through sixth grade.

The Goddard School 24025 Cinco Village Center Blvd. 281-392-1912

5220 Ranch Point Dr. 281-392-1200 goddardschool.com

Get ready for some great field trips, STEAM activities, splash days, sports, and games galore. Also, fun mini-camps with cheer, dance, music, and cooking are available. Chose Preschool camp (ages 2 to 5) or Kids Club (K-5th grade.) Kiddie Academy Multiple Locations kiddieacademy.com

CampVentures, for ages 2 to 12, features age-appropriate programs, plus field trips, special visitors, and more. Day campers will create, explore, construct, design, investigate, and invent!

THE NATURE LOVER Monty Ballard YMCA 15050 Cinco Park Rd. 281-392-5055 ymcahouston.org

Nestled in a woodsy park-like area, YMCA's Camp Cinco offers exciting activities like archery, ropes courses, swimming, and more. It's held at the 200- acre Camp Cinco behind Creech Elementary and features sports fields, a basketball pavilion, misting stations, and a brand new playground. Camp is held from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. for campers ages 6 to 15.

THE COUNTRY CLUBBER Camp Willow Fork 21055 Westheimer Pkwy. 281-579-3508 willowforktennisshop.com

Campers will receive training in tennis, golf, and soccer. Includes a tennis racket, T-shirt, snack, and lunch. There are eight week-long sessions for ages 6 to 12. Camps run through August 4.

Falcon Point Country Club 24503 Falcon Point Dr. 281-392-7888 clubcorp.com/clubs/the-club-at-falcon-point

The Club offers PGA Junior Golf half-day camps that run weekly through August 11. Two full-day camps will be held on June 27-30 and Aug. 8-11. Tennis camps are also offered. Call for details.

Golf Club at Cinco Ranch 23030 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 281-395-7863 golfclubatcincoranch.com

Weekly half-day golf camps run through July 31. School-age kids will learn fundamentals of golf, as well as participate in friendly competitions, games, and more.

THE VOLLEYBALLER Katy Volleyball Academy Camp 2211 Porter Rd. 281-391-4121 katyvolleyball.com

Get ready for fall tryouts or just hone your volleyball skills with evening camps held four nights a week from 6 to 9 p.m. Various camps for fourth through 12th graders are held through August 10. Call for details.

THE BASKETBALLER Stampede Basketball Camp Camps held at Taylor High School 832-865-8416

A camp for second through eighth graders to learn basketball techniques from top coaches in a fun, positive atmosphere. Camps are held June 5-8 and July 10-13.

THE FOOTBALL PRO Katy Youth Football 713-331-1907 katyyouthfootball.com

Offering both conditioning camps and tackle camps for first through sixth graders. Camps are held July 11-14 and July 18-21 respectively. Camps are held in the late afternoon and evenings.

THE MARTIAL ARTIST Tiger Rock Martial Arts Taekwondo 625 S. Mason Rd. 281-829-9300 katytkd.com

5757 Katy-Gaston Rd. 281-202-3713 trmakatysouth.com

Offering martial arts trick camps where students learn flips, twists, kicks, and master the jump track. They also have a camp of champions, and a combat sword camp for juniors and teens (green belt and above). Led by skilled masters, camps run various weeks June through July. Call for details.

THE SOCCER STAR FFPS British Soccer Camp FFPS Soccer Complex George Bush Park 800-828-7529 ext. 101 ffps.org

Camp for ages 6 through 16 will be held July 10-14 and will cover dribbling, moves, passing, shooting, and more. Coaches use a positive approach and are British certified.

Pro's Katy Indoor Soccer 1005 Airline Dr. 832-704-3038 proskaty.com

They have a great summer camp program for ages 6 to 12. Campers will learn the sport of soccer with trainings and scrimmages and play a game or two of dodgeball all while staying cool in their indoor facility. Camp runs June 5 through August 11, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Register in person at the facility.

THE TRACK & FIELDER Katy Blazin’ Red Camp Held at Katy High School katyblazinred.com

This track and field camp has two sessions Mon. through Thurs. 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. for kids ages 3 to 12. Choose June 5-29 and/or July 6-16.

THE TENNIS PLAYER Katy Tennis Academy Camps held at Beckendorff JH or Seven Lakes HS 832-434-0205 katytennisacademy.com

Weekly camps cover areas like stroke technique, drills, singles and doubles, match play, serving, and more. Beginners, intermediate, and advanced players welcome. Ages 5 through 17. Camps run through Aug. 11.

THE RUGBY KID Texas Rugby Kids Multiple Locations 832-600-8412 texasrugbykids.com

Five fun-filled days of non-contact rugby fun for boys and girls,ages 3-14. Weekly camps run Mon- Fri 9 am-noon throughout June and July. Teamwork, physical activity, and coordination for the little ones; skill development, off-season training, agility work and game play for our older ruggers.

THE ROBOTICS KID American Robotics Academy 700 S. Westgreen Blvd. (CrossPoint Community Church) 281-599-7626 roboticsacademy.com

Their mission is to excite, inspire, and motivate youth about the fun, importance and impact of robotics technology in today's world. Their classes teach students to understand "how things work" through hands-on activities that demonstrate the principles of simple and motorized machines. Offering both morning and afternoon camps. Camps run through August 11.

THE ACTOR Spotlight Acting Academy The Villagio Town Center 22758 Westheimer Pkwy. 832-913-6884 spotlightactingacademy.com

Offering summer camps, classes, and workshops for ages 3-18 including the Triple Threat Workshop and the Never Grow Up Preschool Camp. Be part of the High School Musical, Jr. performance. Providing excellent theatre instruction through fun activities for thespians of all ages.

THE SMART COOKIE The Lifelong Learning (LLC) Summer Camp 1701 East Ave (346) 387-6955 www.texaslifelonglearning.com

Their summer camp specializes in youth and adults ages 12-22 with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Weekly activities consist of arts and crafts, cooking shows, field trips, game days, and much more. KM

Got a camp? Email [email protected]! Call to confirm individual camp sessions and prices. Visit our Katy Magazine Summer Camp Facebook page!

Katy, TX Blogs (May 9, 2017) – Treat the most special woman in your life to a delicious food, fun, and pampering on Mother's Day. Here is a list of events and specials in Katy, Texas. Don't forget to tell them you found it on Katy Magazine!

EVENTS

Friday – Sunday, May 12 – 14, 2017 11:00 a.m. Mother's Day Combination Special Los Cucos Mexican Restaurant

Katy Mills 5303 Bell Patna Dr.

Historic Katy 5831 Highway Blvd.

The Mother's Day special will include four grilled shrimp, one fish filet sauteed with crab, pico, and lemon butter, chicken and beef fajitas, and a small queso with chorizo with rice and beans for $44.99. They will also have Mother's Day cocktails like blackberry sangria and watermelon margaritas for sale.

Saturday, May 13, 2017 8:45 -9:45 a.m. Free Mother's Day Boot Camp LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch – Central Green Park 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd.

Join other moms for a free, fun baby boot camp in celebration of Mother's Day. Bring a stroller, water, and snacks.

Saturday, May 13, 2017 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Mother's Day Card Crafting Cane Island 2100 Cane Island Pkwy.

Little ones can make special cards for their moms.

Sunday, May 14, 2017 8:00 a.m. Whiskey Cake Katy 23139 Grand Cir.

They will open an hour early and offer their usual brunch menu items for Mother's Day.

Sunday, May 14, 2017 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. All-You-Can Eat Buffet Agave Rio Patio Oasis & Restaurant 1135 FM 1463

Surprise mom with a fun, all-you-can-eat buffet. Price is $55 for adults, and $12 for kids 6 years and up, and includes a salad station, omelet station, scrambled eggs and frittata, bacon, sausage, barbecue carving station, crawfish, shrimp and grits, chicken picatta, and a children's buffet. There will also be a cash bar. Call 281-665-3337 to make reservations.

Sunday, May 14, 2017 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Mother's Day Buffet Hasta La Pasta 1450 Grand Pkwy.

They will be serving a special buffet to celebrate Mother's Day. Call 281-392-0045 for reservations.

Sunday, May 14, 2017 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Landry's Seafood House 22215 Katy Fwy.

They will offer a special menu with brunch favorites from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and a carving station, a starters bar, seafood and farmhouse favorites, a children's table, and desserts. Price is $32 adults and $11 for children ages 4 to 10 years old.

Sunday, May 14, 2017 10:30 a.m. Jimmy Changas Fresh Mex Fun 300 Westgreen Blvd.

In honor of Mother's Day, they will offer a special Cancun platter complete with lobster tail, shrimp, and beef and chicken fajita for $23.99.

Sunday, May 14, 2017 10:30 a.m. Mother's Day Brunch Omni Houston Hotel at Westside 13210 Katy Fwy.

Mother's Day plates are $56.95 for adults, $27.95 for children ages 6 through 12.

Sunday, May 14, 2017 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Breakfast at Tiffany's Mother's Day Brunch Alamo Drafthouse – Mason Park 531 S. Mason Rd.

Treat your mother to a special screening of a movie that leaves everyone divinely and utterly happy, Breakfast at Tiffany's. Their brunch menu will include Danish pastries, creole crab cake, salad, caviar, and panna cotta.

Sunday, May 14, 2017 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Mother's Day Special Menu Antonia's Cucina Italiana Katy 2001 Katy Mills Blvd.

They will offer a selection of delicious special menu items from appetizers to desserts in celebration of Mother's Day. Call 281-644-6000.

Sunday, May 14, 2017 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Orleans Seafood Kitchen 20940 Katy Fwy.

Moms can enjoy a grilled lobster tail with shrimp and scallops served with a summer squash medley and dirty rice for only $23.99.

Sunday, May 14, 2017 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Mother's Day Live Music LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd.

Trumpeter Preston Smith will perform smooth jazz live from Heritage Square.

Sunday, May 14, 2017 4:00 – 9:00 p.m. Perry's Steakhouse 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd.

They will offer a three-course Sunday Supper special that includes a salad, a sweet, smoky Perry's pork chop, and a dessert trio for only $29.95. Make a reservation at PerrysSteakhouse.com.

SPECIALS

BH Hair Studio – Complimentary deep-conditioner, champagne, and sweet treats from Friday, May 12 – Saturday, May 13, 2017. Call 281-395-5010 to book an appointment.

Black Walnut Cafe – Purchase a $25 gift card for mom, and receive a $5 Walnut Bucks card.

Cici's Pizza – Get a free adult buffet for large, one-topping pizza to go when you purchase at $25 gift card for mom.

Las Mananitas Mexican Restaurant – Their Mother's Day special will include a free, small margarita and live mariachi music from 1 to 3 p.m.

Tilt Studio – Moms get a free game for every game of mini-golf and mini-bowling purchased.

Katy, TX Blog (May 8, 2017) – After weighing two pounds at birth and suffering multiple organ failures, Logan Buelna proves that life is worth fighting for

Written by Meagan Clanahan | Select photography by Candace Cook

For Dr. Molly Obergfell and Dr. David Buelna, the early stages of their first pregnancy with their son Logan was picture perfect by all medical standards. After meeting at Kingsland Animal Hospital where they were both employed as veterinarians and subsequently marrying in 2013, they were overjoyed to be expecting their first son. They never expected the twists and turns that would come when he burst onto the scene in the early hours of June 18, 2015.

Unexpected Arrival It was early June when Molly started to feel like something wasn't right. One Saturday she landed in the hospital, but was sent home being told she had Braxton Hicks contractions. The next week she noticed that she felt extremely sluggish, but chalked it up to working long hours and not knowing what to expect during a first pregnancy. Little did she know that she would find herself in the emergency room fully dilated at just 25 weeks pregnant. Her doctors at Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital did everything they could to slow down delivery including doses of magnesium and steroids, but it was too late. Logan David Buelna made his appearance weighing in at a tiny 2 lbs., 2 oz. and 13 inches long. Molly tearfully recalls those first moments. "They took him immediately to intubate him and get him stabilized," she remembers. "There was plastic stuff all around him and I could barely see him." Because the NICU at the local hospital could not accommodate a micro preemie, plans were immediately made to chopper him to Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital in the Medical Center. "I was still recovering, so I had to stay behind while David made the trip with Logan," she says. "I had one chance to see him and he grabbed my finger before they left. Not being with my baby was the longest night of my life."

Predictably Unpredictable Seven long days passed before they were even able to hold their precious son using skin-to-skin, a.k.a kangaroo care. A few weeks into their NICU journey, he went into congestive heart failure because his PDA (patent ductus arteriosus) never fully closed, thus leading to multiple organ shut down, including his liver and kidneys. The Buelnas made the difficult decision to transfer Logan to Texas Children's Hospital (TCH) for heart surgery on his PDA. Once at TCH, doctors were able to stabilize him, repair his heart, and get the rest of his organs functioning again. From there, it became a feeding and growing game, as well as also working on his ability to breathe without the use of the CPAP and oxygen.

The Will to Fight While both David and Molly spent every weekend at the hospital with Logan, Molly was the primary caregiver for Logan during his NICU stay while David held down the work front. She spent weeks pumping precious breast milk for Logan, setting her alarm every three hours for a session, day and night. With the exception of a few frightening nights, the Buelnas made a deal that she needed to come home every night, but she was right back crib side every morning for rounds to catch up on the latest news. "Just seeing our baby down there, it broke my heart to leave him every day," she recalls. "He was fighting so hard, you could see it. He wanted to be with us. I was his advocate, I had to be there. His will to live was my will to fight."

Surpassing Expectations As his official due date drew nearer, Molly and David began to breathe sighs of relief. After passing his mandatory carseat test with flying colors and receiving good news on his retinal optic tests, it was finally time to go home, three and a half months after their journey began. After stocking their freezer with over 400 bags of breast milk from Molly, the family was finally released from TCH with their tiny fighter weighing almost five pounds more than he did at birth.

One would never guess today that Logan had such a tumultuous start. While still on the smaller side of the charts, he is a rambunctious, happy, and healthy 19-month-old who is the resident comedian of the household and a daddy's boy through and through. He has surpassed all medical expectations and was released from all outside therapies including occupational and physical. The future is bright for this little warrior and he's especially enamored with his new little brother, Eli, whom his parents welcomed full term in November 2016. KM

Katy, TX Blogs (May 5, 2017) – "After 26 years in international education, one of the things I have enjoyed the most has been the rich, diverse and rewarding discussions with colleagues around the world. One of the common themes across Nord Anglia Education in recent years has been, how do we educate our students for their future?

Part of that discussion has been increasingly around the design of school buildings and learning environments. How can we expect to develop learning to meet the needs of 21st century learners when the buildings we work in still follow the same ‘industrial’ concepts used for years?

So, imagine being given the opportunity to be part of designing, building and opening a brand new, state-of-the-art, ‘school of the future’. Along with the Nord Anglia Corporate Development team and lead architect, Ed Schmidt, that's exactly what we just did in Houston.

The basic premise was quite simple, instead of building a school around a standardized model of education and the requirements of teachers and teaching, what happens if you build it around the varied and personal needs of learners and their learning?

The usual concept for school buildings has traditionally been classrooms, each belonging to a teacher, all connected by corridors. Students move from room to room either based on their age or based on the subject they are being taught at that time. Rooms, furniture, displays are usually fixed. Of course, this model matches the traditional, industrialized and standardized model for education that has been in place for many years. In addition, rectangular boxes, joined by straight corridors are cheap and easy to build.

But, the real world does not work in isolation and we know that learners do not learn best in isolated classrooms. Connectivity is everywhere and modern schools must be willing to adapt.

Imagine the conversation with our teachers a few years ago. It went something like:

We are going to have a new campus (lots of cheers).

But, teachers will not have their own classrooms (fewer cheers).

There will not even be offices for individual administrative staff (even fewer cheers).

There will be no teacher's desks, teacher's white boards or even fronts to rooms (deafening silence and obvious shock in the room).

I have to give full credit to our staff. They have been incredibly open minded, hardworking and willing to try new ideas. This transition could have been very tough without such a team and they deserve a great deal of the credit.

Our new 275,000 square foot campus opened this summer. Spanning 34 acres and accommodating over 2000 students, the school features an array of facilities and exciting learning areas that enrich the student experience.

General Concepts:

One of the things that never ceases to amaze me is that every time I walk around the building the layout is different. The neighborhoods change every hour, depending on the needs of the learners.

Architectural Learning Concept

In his book ‘From the Campfire to the Holodeck: Creating Engaging and Powerful 21st Century Learning Environments,’ David Thornburg talks about the need to create a balance in spaces such as caves, campfires, watering holes and mountain tops. Each has a particular learning function, from quiet reflection to research, discussion, collaboration and presentation.

Similarly, every area in our school purposefully has possibilities.

The center of the building is the Agora, the Greek ‘Market Place’ where anyone can come to share ideas, research and collaborate. This is the heart of the building, from where you can see the whole school in motion. The glass allows visibility in to all learning spaces and sometimes I just like to sit here and observe.

At any time in the Agora you will see younger children reading, older students researching, a class being taught, teachers lesson planning and a few parents chatting over a coffee, all at the same time. You will also see several administrators working, since this has become the chosen ‘office space’ for the leadership team. It's a great place to be easily found.

Impact

While we need more time and a larger study to measure the full impact of the new learning environment, some things have been immediate and obvious. We have had many visitors come in the new facility since it opened and everyone seems to have the same feedback: students in all year groups are highly engaged and move around the building with a high level of purpose and ownership of their learning.

This is very clear to all of us who work in the building on a daily basis. We need to study it in more detail, but we believe it has a lot to do with the fact that the entire building is built for learners; it is their school. In this school, learning is not something that is done to students. Instead, it is something that we empower our students to embrace and nurture, encouraging them to take responsibility for their individual growth on every level.

I have to say that this project has surpassed our expectations in many areas. We learned so much from our NAE colleagues around the world and from visiting other schools, so we would like to warmly invite anyone who is in the area to come and take a look. We never get tired of showing people around."

Courtesy of Andrew Derry, BISH Principal

Katy, TX (May 5, 2017) – Polling locations for the City of Katy mayoral and city council election.

Election Day Saturday, May 6, 2017 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Ward A Katy City Hall 901 Ave. c

Ward B Katy Municipal Courthouse 5432 Franz Rd.

Click here to see the most current City of Katy Ward map.

Katy, Texas News (May 2, 2017) – Katy families may have seen and taken photos with the brightly-painted locomotive on the railroad tracks in Historic Katy. What Katyites may not know is that the train is more than a great photo op. The #1988 SD70ACe locomotive is part of a larger, Presidential Heritage fleet from Union Pacific that pays tribute to the Missouri-Kansas-Texas railroad, and the historical significance it plays in American history.

Other locomotives in the fleet include:

"Union Pacific has introduced the latest addition to its Heritage Series locomotives – the Katy locomotive. Incorporating historic colors and graphic elements of the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, the new locomotive pays tribute to the men and women of the Katy.

"Our reputation as America's greatest railroad has been strengthened by the many lines that are now a part of the UP," said Dick Davidson, chairman and CEO. "The creation of our Heritage Series is just one way we can pay homage to those railroads and the generations of men and women who helped to build a great nation and the foundation for our future."

The Katy Heritage Series locomotive joins the Missouri Pacific and Western Pacific locomotives unveiled in July. Three more Heritage Series locomotives, the Chicago & North Western, Southern Pacific, and Denver & Rio Grande, will be introduced in 2006. All honor the people and the railroads that have made Union Pacific what it is today.

The Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, affectionately referred to as the Katy, was created in 1865. By the time it joined Union Pacific in 1988, the Katy served six midwestern states with more than 3,377 miles of track. It was an important north-south link between the Midwest and Texas, especially for the growing coal business. The Katy had primary operating centers in Denison, Texas; Bellmead, Texas; and Parsons, Kan.; and was headquartered in Dallas.

The new Katy Heritage Series locomotive is numbered 1988 to reflect the year its namesake joined Union Pacific, and the locomotive will initially operate within territory served by the Katy.

The Heritage Series marks the fifth time in company history that Union Pacific has painted locomotives in colors other than the traditional UP "Armour Yellow" paint scheme. Previously, locomotives were custom painted in 1991 to honor UP employees serving in the Persian Gulf War, in 1994 to call attention to the United Way Campaign, in 1996 for the Atlanta Games Olympic Torch Relay Train, and in 2002 for the Salt Lake City Games Olympic Torch Relay Train.

Union Pacific Corporation owns one of America's leading transportation companies. Its principal operating company, Union Pacific Railroad, links 23 states in the western two-thirds of the country and serves the fastest-growing U.S. population centers. Union Pacific's diversified business mix includes Agricultural Products, Automotive, Chemicals, Energy, Industrial Products and Intermodal. The railroad offers competitive long-haul routes from all major West Coast and Gulf Coast ports to eastern gateways. Union Pacific connects with Canada's rail systems and is the only railroad serving all six major gateways to Mexico, making it North America's premier rail franchise."

Katy, Texas (May 2, 2017) – The Katy Flyer was built by American Car & Foundry in 1953 as 44-seat coach No. 5468. It was renamed the Katy Flyer in 1993.

In 1896, the Missouri Kansas & Texas Railroad announced the inauguration of the Katy Flyer, with service between St. Louis, Mo., and southwest Texas. By 1905, "The Fast Train to St. Louis" raced between Galveston, Texas, and St. Louis in about 37 hours. The Flyer carried a boilerbuffet-sleeper for the convenience of those passengers who wished to have their meals served aboard the train. Other passengers were permitted to detrain at Parsons, McAlester or Dallas, Texas, to eat at the company-owned dining station where "the price is only fifty cents and the railway spares no pains or expenses to please the most fastidious."

By the mid-1920s, the Texas Special and Katy Limited were receiving most of the attention on the Katy. Nevertheless, Nos. 5 and 6 still carried the St. Louis-to-Galveston passengers, handling not fewer than six sleepers, many of them destined for San Antonio, which Katy proclaimed "The Winter Playground of America." In 1936, for the Texas centennial, the temporarily renamed Katy Centennial Flyer carried tourists to a variety of celebrations on the Katy's service area.

By the end of World War II, the Katy Flyer was on a downward slide, meal services were cut back, and by 1961 the train name disappeared, with Nos. 5 and 6 offering only coach service. All passenger service ended June 30, 1965. Nonetheless, Katy and its passenger train service played an important role in opening and promoting the Texas Southwest. No Katy train was more prominent in this effort than the Katy Flyer.

KATY, TX (April 27, 2017) – The Quality Texas Foundation has awarded Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital the Texas Award for Performance Excellence (TAPE). The prestigious award recognizes strong dedication to quality and high performance.

"We are honored to be among the select group of organizations to achieve this distinction from the Quality Texas Foundation. Winning the TAPE award is a reflection of the focus on clinical excellence, quality, and patient safety that the team at Memorial Hermann Katy provides every day," said Heath Rushing, Senior Vice President and CEO, Memorial Hermann Katy.

The Quality Texas Foundation, known as a national leader in its field, was chartered to recognize the best organizations in Texas. The group uses an extensive evaluation process that includes hundreds of hours spent through on-site visits to evaluate and score applicants in several criteria.

Dr. Mac McGuire, CEO Quality Texas Foundation said, "This award is no small achievement. It's not about a particular test, or one day evaluation. It is a critical look at both the processes and results shown by Memorial Hermann Katy, in accordance with the Baldrige Criteria. Those who receive the TAPE award have a proven record of excellence."

The Baldrige Excellence Framework is used by businesses, healthcare providers, schools, government agencies and other nonprofit organizations to improve and excel in their industries. This distinction takes Memorial Hermann Katy one step closer to achieving the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award. Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital received the prominent award in 2016.

"We know the hard work isn't over yet. The Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award is a lofty goal, but we believe our staff already provides the high quality care outlined by the Baldrige Excellence Framework, and we are confident that we will prove that to the organization in the coming months," said Rushing.

"I want to congratulate the team at Memorial Hermann Katy on this significant award," said Dr. Benjamin Chu, President and CEO, Memorial Hermann Health System. "It is a rigorous journey to receive the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, and this is an impressive step in the right direction."

Memorial Hermann Katy will receive the award during the Quality Texas Foundation annual conference June 27, 2017 at the Houston Westin.

Katy, TX (April 26, 2017) – Katy ISD namesake and career educator, Catherine Bethke, continues to fuel a love for reading and passion for learning in students.

Written by Lacey Kupfer Wulf | Select photography by Anetrius Wallace

Catherine "Gigi" Bethke has devoted her life to young children, literacy, and reading. She developed reading intervention programs and a literacy library to help all students feel the same love of reading she has, allowing her to reach students beyond her kindergarten class. Carrie Lowery, principal of Catherine Bethke Elementary (CBE), adds, "When students are comfortable with literacy skills, their world is opened up for learning geared toward their passions." It is little wonder why Bethke was chosen as the namesake for Katy ISD Elementary 39, which opened in August 2016.

As the sixth of 12 children, Bethke had plenty of practice teaching – helping her younger siblings with homework, and reading aloud with them. That love of teaching never faded. She says, "Even now at Bethke Elementary, my enthusiasm for teaching is renewed when I look into the beautiful faces of the children, hear their sweet voices, and feel their arms around my waist."

A Special Gift Bethke's reading programs included more than just reading books, "We read daily affirmations, recited jivy jingles to help them with word attack skills, and sang songs to help them with comprehension in addition to standard reading practice." These other activities not only helped students improve their reading skills, but also built students’ confidence in their ability to learn. "She has a gift for making everyone feel special," adds Lowery. As Bethke's former student and special education resource and in-class support teacher at Bethke Elementary, Christin Puyol adds, "When you go through your teaching certification courses, they often ask you to picture your favorite teacher and think about what you liked most about that class. I always pictured Mrs. Bethke's class because I felt so welcome.

Celebrating Success Through the reading intervention program REACH (Reaching Empowers All Children), which she created and coined, Bethke has learned how to help those students in first through fifth-grade who have negative feelings about reading and learning in general. She says, "An educator needs to take the time to build a trusting relationship with kids so they will be willing to put forth their best efforts." She also believes that preventing these negative feelings from developing in the first place is the best course of action. "In the beginning it is necessary for the teacher to accept and celebrate small successes because they lead to reading gains." Bethke's example and experiences show that this teaching philosophy works.

Bethke Bisons "When I was told that a school would be named in my honor, I felt blessed, humbled, and amazed," Bethke says. "I feel a huge responsibility to help CBE become another successful Katy ISD campus." She is already impressed by the strong leadership, dedicated teachers, and parental involvement. "I am very proud of this beautiful school and I am delighted to have a permanent link to Katy ISD." Even the kids have had to adjust to the new school name and mascot. Bethke says, "It is not unusual to see and hear some of the sweet kindergarten or first-grade students eagerly waving and smiling at me as they call out, ‘Hi, Mrs. Bison!’ or ‘Hi, Bethke Bison!’"

Lasting Contributions Even after retiring in 2012, Bethke continues to volunteer at Alexander Elementary, where her two granddaughters attend school, and Bethke Elementary three times a week tutoring, reading to classes, and teaching junior achievement. "Every time I hear her read a book to students, it reminds me of the excited feelings I had in kindergarten during story time," Puyol adds. Bethke also works as a substitute GT proctor for Katy ISD. "I still want to be involved in a school setting as long as I feel I can contribute effectively," she says. For Bethke, teaching has many rewards. "When struggling readers beam with pride because they can read a word today that they didn't know yesterday, or when they leave the classroom hugging a book they can read, it is extremely gratifying," she says. "I think my favorite is just four simple words: I love you, teacher." KM

Katy, TX News (April 24, 2017) – Early voting for the May 6, 2017 election starts Monday, April 24 and ends on May 2. The Harris County Clerk's office will conduct elections for eight political subdivisions serving over 900,000 registered voters in Harris County. Fifty-four additional political entities in Harris County will also conduct elections on the same day. The deadline to submit an application for a mail ballot is April 25.

Voters residing in the political entities in which the County Clerk is running the election can find sample ballots, the early voting schedule, and the election day polling locations at www.HarrisVotes.com. The County Clerk's office is conducting elections for the City of Humble, City of Pasadena, Houston Independent School District, Humble Independent School District, Northgate Crossing Municipal Utility District 2, Northwest Harris County Municipal Utility District 28, Oakmont Public Utility District, Harris County Water Control & Improvement District 91.

Voters in the other political subdivisions within the county may visit the www.HarrisVotes.com website to find out if there is an election taking place in their area by searching via the "Find Your Poll" search engine. Over half of the county's 2.2 million registered voters are eligible to vote in a May 6 election.

"Contact information for the political entities is provided via the "Find Your Poll" search engine on www.HarrisVotes.com." said Harris County Clerk Stan Stanart, the county's chief election officer. "Voters should communicate directly with political entities conducting their own elections to obtain more information about their elections and voting locations."

For more information about the acceptable forms of photo identification and other means to vote at the poll, the requirements to vote by mail, the early voting period and voting on election day in the upcoming May elections, voters may visit www.HarrisVotes.com or call 713.755.6965.

Katy, TX (April 20, 2017) – As the Houston Rockets continue to lead in their playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Academy Sports + Outdoors is taking 20% off all Rockets gear (including clearance items) at the Katy locations on Grand Parkway and FM 1093, as well as other Houston locations. The discount will last until Sunday, April 23, 2017.

Katy, TX News (April 20, 2017) – On Thursday, April 27, 2017, Wood Group will host a community recycling drive at its Park Ten campus to support its environmental stewardship program. A portion of the recyclable proceeds will benefit the Heart of Mustang, Wood Group's 501 (c3) charitable organizations. Heart of Mustang raises money to benefit a variety of causes, and its success is a direct result of dedicated employees who generously volunteer their, time, labor and monetary gifts.

Wood Group is committed to protecting the environment and supporting its local community. Drives like this and other initiatives throughout the year allow Wood Group to provide employees and the community a convenient way to donate recyclable items, promote environmental awareness and encourage environmental best practices. The Greater Houston community is invited to drop off their recyclable materials.

Acceptable donations include: E-waste recycling for outdated or end-of-life electronics – provided by TechnoCycle. Paper, cardboard, aluminum, and free onsite shredding of confidential documents – provided by SE Shred. Boys and Girls Harbor & Katy Christian Ministries accepting donations for new and gently used clothing, furniture, housewares; non-perishable food. New Eyes collecting used eye glasses, frames, eye glass accessories. Pet food, new or gently used pet supplies for local animal rescues.

The event will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Ten West Center One in the parking lot. The address is 17420 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77094.

Contact Bobbie Ireland at [email protected] or 281.828-3505.

Katy, TX News (April 20, 2017) – The Katy ISD Volunteer Celebration will be held in the Merrell Center on Friday, May 12th from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Hosted by Partners in Education and the Volunteers in Public Schools Executive Board, this annual event honors the thousands of school district volunteers who donate their time and talents to our students and teachers.

This year's guest speaker is former NFL player and sportscaster Spencer Tillman. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma, Tillman was part of the 1985 National Championship team and won MVP of the Orange Bowl that year. He went on to have a successful career in the NFL, playing for the Houston Oilers and the Super Bowl Champion San Francisco 49ers. Tillman is now the Color Analyst for Fox Sports 1 alongside Tim Brando. He can be seen just about every College Football Saturday on FS1 and every NFL Sunday on KTRK, giving expert analysis on our Houston Texans. Off-camera, Spencer Tillman has been the featured keynote speaker at some of the country's most notable companies.

The VIPS Celebration entertainment will include students from every high school, the West Memorial Junior High Theater Troupe and a surprise performance from one of the district's principals. The morning will also honor the 2016-2017 Campus Volunteers of the Year and debut this year's principal video homage to volunteers. All Katy ISD volunteers are invited to attend and should RSVP no later than May 9th by visiting the "Community" page at www.katyisd.org and clicking "Partners in Education." Doors will open at 8:15 a.m. and the program will begin at 9:00. For more information about the event, volunteers should contact their campus VIPS Liaison or [email protected]. Volunteers in Public Schools, a Katy ISD Partners in Education program, offers moms, dads, family and community members a wide variety of volunteer opportunities at their chosen campus. To learn more, visit Partners in Education under the "Community" tab at www.katyisd.org or contact your campus Volunteer Coordinator.

SurveyMonkey Link to RSVP to the VIPS Celebration

Katy, TX News (April 19, 2017) – The dates for early voting and election day for the 2017 Katy ISD Board election have been announced. The Board is comprised of seven members who are elected at-large to fill available positions. In accordance with the provisions of the Texas Education Code, a person may not be elected as a trustee of Katy ISD unless the person is a qualified voter.

An individual seeking election as a member of the Board of Trustees must have been a resident of the state for 12 months and a resident of the District six months prior to the last date on which the candidate could file to be listed on the ballot. The following persons have filed as candidates for the upcoming election.

Dates, candidate information, polling information, and more below.

EARLY VOTING DATES & LOCATIONS

Monday, April 24, 2017 – Tuesday, May 2, 2017 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

ELECTION DAY POLLING LOCATIONS

Election Day is Saturday, May 6, 2017 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Click here to locate your precinct based on county boundaries.

CANDIDATES & POSITIONS

Position 3 Candidates

Position 4 Candidates

Position 5 Candidates

Courtesy of Katy ISD. Visit katyisd.org for more information .

Katy, TX News (April 19, 2017) – 2017 Prom Dates for Katy Area High Schools

Katy, TX Blogs (April 19, 2017) – Elena Carlberg and her husband David have been best friends since they met over 20 years ago when she was just 18. Today, she's mom to their 11 biological children and counting her blessings one by one. Katy Magazine caught up with Elena to compile some of her best advice for other Katy supermoms.

Written by Kennan Buckner

1. Less is More Since organization has never been one of Elena's strengths, she relies on minimalism to keep things running smoothly. "I have 13 of everything in the cupboard," she says. "Thirteen white plates, 13 white bowls, and 13 cups." And in her hall closet, there are 13 towels. "Each child has enough clothes for two weeks’ worth of school, and that's all," she says.

2. Have Humor Elena is always making her family laugh; whether it's by talking in her silly Marilyn Monroe voice or encouraging Arya to use her English accent. "I don't know if I’m funny, or if my husband and kids are just easily amused," she laughs.

3. Do Something for Yourself Being a mom doesn't usually lend itself to time alone. Her guilty pleasure is recording episodes of The Bold and the Beautiful and binge-watching them later. She also plays bunco and has joined her mom in her home décor business. She adds, "I spend a few hours a night designing items after the kids go to bed."

4. Stay Calm Elena describes herself as calm, but not quiet. The couple's laid-back style reflects in their children's natures, too. "People are usually shocked at how well-behaved our children are, and we quite often get complimented on it."

5. Work as a Team When it comes to the nighttime routine, they divide and conquer. "David and I tackle it together and high-five each other when they’re finally all in bed. It's like completing a marathon," she says. Her husband's support doesn't end there. "When I’m having a rough day, I can always count on him to try to make me feel better," she adds.

6. Get a Support System While she would tell her younger self to accept advice, she says not to take to heart every opinion. Elena finds balance by getting support from those who matter most. "I couldn't do it without my family – especially my mom," she says. "She's been through this journey with me every step of the way."

7. Plan Ahead for Meals "We order our groceries online and use the pick-up service. This new option has been life-changing for us," she says. Every night's dinner has a theme. Monday might be breakfast for dinner and Tuesday is Italian night. The following week, they just change up the menu items but still follow the theme.

8. Everybody Helps With more kids come more messes, but also more help. Alec and Aidan do laundry and take out the trash. Andrew and Abby are the sweepers, Adam is the duster, and Ashton cleans counters. Addison and Adrian are in charge of getting everything off the floor. "Annie keeps an eye out for me, ensuring everyone is doing their job properly," says Elena. Annie, who has cerebral palsy, is also in charge of their music and the family agrees that she has amazing taste. They often listen to John Williams, The Beatles, or Prince.

9. Celebrate Victories "There's no such thing as a little victory in this house," Elena says. "Anything that was achieved through hard work gets met with a huge cheering section." Last year, Andrew came in last place in a race during field day. This year David trained with him, and he placed first. The whole family called to congratulate him. "You’d think he was just elected president," Elena boasts. "He couldn't stop smiling for days."

10. Focus on Relationships Elena says David uses any spare time to play with or teach the children new things. "David listens intently when the kids talk," she shares. As a result, the kids shower him with love, devotion, and sincere affection. "When you focus on the individuals you’re around, rather than just the things that need to get done, the result is deeper relationships. What you get out of a relationship is dependent upon what you put into it," she adds.

11. Count Your Blessings Counting her blessings comes easily for Elena. "I’ve been blessed with getting to stay home with my kids and having the best role models in my mom, grandma, and aunts," she says. "I’ve been blessed in having a husband who always puts us before anything else. I’ve also been blessed with 11 of the most kind-hearted, unique, and gracious children in the world." KM

Katy, TX News (April 14, 2017) – Phaneendra Kondapi, a veteran engineering educator who helped develop the nation's first subsea engineering program at the University of Houston, has been named founding director of engineering programs at the University of Houston at Katy.

Kondapi is returning to the University after serving as director of subsea engineering at Texas A&M University for the past year.

The UH Cullen College of Engineering began offering two energy-focused engineering courses at the Houston Community College (HCC) Northwest-Katy Campus last fall, in advance of the planned opening of a new UH System facility in Katy in 2018. The UH System site will be home to UH Katy and the University of Houston-Victoria at Katy. The graduate-level course offerings are focused on areas in high demand in Houston's Energy Corridor, including petroleum, subsea, electrical and environmental engineering.

Five graduate-level classes will be offered at the HCC Katy campus this fall, in electrical engineering, subsea engineering and environmental engineering. Kondapi will teach one of the subsea courses, flow assurance.

"Dr. Kondapi was vital to developing the first subsea engineering program in the U.S. here at the Cullen College. I am tremendously proud that he will now help to bring our top-ranked engineering programs to the Katy community," said Joseph. W. Tedesco, Elizabeth D. Rockwell Dean of the Cullen College of Engineering.

Kondapi taught the UH subsea engineering program's inaugural course, flow assurance, in 2011, and has worked on to standardize global subsea education through the UH-led Global Subsea Education Alliance.

Formerly an adjunct professor of subsea engineering, Kondapi has more than 20 years of experience managing engineering projects at energy industry giants FMC Technologies and KBR.

He said he wants students to learn not just the technical material but to gain an enthusiasm for the field. "My motivation is to make my students successful by encouraging them to get ready for industry," Kondapi said.

Kondapi was awarded the 2013 SPE Teaching Excellence Award from the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) International, which recognizes petroleum engineering faculty who have demonstrated innovative teaching techniques and creative pedagogy methods in the classroom.

The HCC building in Katy is easily accessible for Energy Corridor professionals pursuing degrees or certificates to enhance their skills. "We are here in Katy to serve both the community and the industry to improve their technical and engineering careers," Kondapi said.

Katy, TX (April 13, 2017) – One of the most commonly used modalities in stretching routines is the foam roller, which mimic a therapist's myofascial release techniques and has been shown to increase range of motion, reduce soreness, improve tissue recovery and decrease the overall effects of stress placed on the body. Rollers come in several different lengths, densities and surface structures.

Foam rolling should be done before dynamic or static stretching exercises to increase body temperature and improve the tissue's ability to lengthen during a stretch.

When using the foam roller before exercise, roll eight to 10 times at a moderate pace along the muscle and follow with dynamic stretching. When using post-exercise, slowly roll the targeted area until the most tender spot is found. Hold on that targeted area for 20 to 30 seconds until discomfort is reduced. If discomfort becomes intolerable, back off the area.

The most common troubled areas cyclists experience are the iliotibial bands (IT bands), hamstrings, quadriceps, glutes, hip adductors, calves and the back. These areas are very susceptible to tightness, which can lead to injury. With rigorous training programs and competitions it is vital that these areas are addressed to decrease the chances of injury and potentially increase performance.

Individuals who have been medically diagnosed or are experiencing symptoms related to osteoporosis, diabetes, high blood pressure, varicose veins or pregnancy, or who are unsure about their condition, should consult a physician before beginning to apply soft-tissue therapy.

Katy, TX (April 3, 2017) – Katy Summer Academic Term (KSAT) is a seamless extension of the academic school year which provides Katy ISD students differentiated learning experiences and opportunities to earn original and restoration credit. See below for locations, registration information, and schedules.

DATES: SEMESTER 1: June 13 – 27, 2017 SEMESTER 2: June 28 – July 13, 2017

LOCATIONS: Original Credit & Credit Recovery Seven Lakes High School 9251 S. Fry Rd. 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

EOC/TAKS Remediation Clinics & Summer Testing Taylor High School 20700 Kingsland Blvd.

High School – Original Credit Courses

High School – Credit Recovery Courses

Register online at katyisd.org.

Katy, TX (March 29, 2017) – Katy Magazine gives a shout-out to all the good news happening in our community.

Katy ISD's Lunch Angel An anonymous donor contributed $650 to pay off negative balances for free and reduced lunch students at Mayde Creek Junior High, Cardiff Junior High, Mayde Creek Elementary, and Mayde Creek High School.

Katy Million Meal Pack-A-Thon Host churches Redeemer Community Church, The Fellowship, and Westland Baptist Church held an event where 626,000 Feed the Hunger meal packages were packed by 2,500 Katy area volunteers.

Katy High School Faculty Faculty and staff raised $4,450 to donate to The Ballard House.

Santa Cops Katy ISD's Santa Cops program helped 674 children and more than 330 families by providing toys and clothing.

Raising Cane's The chicken finger restaurant sold white plush puppies to patrons. The sales of the puppies went to help the animals at Special Pals Shelter.

Fort Bend Rancher's Ball The ball raised almost $290,000 through the hard work and dedication of Katy residents as well as Commissioner Andy Meyers. The money has been donated to Katy Christian Ministries, Simonton Christian Academy, and Katy Contemporary Arts Museum.

Watercrest at Katy Residents of Watercrest at Katy raised $1,746 to donate to Katy Christian Ministries.

KISSUE During an evening charity event, the upscale clothing boutique donated 20% of its sales to Clothed by Faith.

Cinco Ranch Giving Circle The members, made up of Katy area residents, collected $1,521 to donate to Child Advocates of Fort Bend.

Chick-fil-A Employees brought clothing items to their company party and donated everything to Hope Impacts.

Impress Computers The company collected teddy bears to donate to the Joe Joe Bear Foundation.

Fulshear Police Department For every Red, White, & Rescue calendar sold, the police department donated funds to Special Pals Shelter.

Camp Bow Wow Katy Employees and patrons dropped off pet food, toys, and other needed items for animals in foster care.

Monty Ballard YMCA at Cinco Ranch The health and fitness club partnered with Cigna to offer free health screenings to help people find out their four health numbers: blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and BMI.

BH Hair Studio The salon gave away free makeovers to five lucky patrons.

Girl Scout Troop 129068 Scouts prepared pancakes, bacon, and eggs for dinner, then served them to residents at The Ballard House.

Katy Triathlon at Firethorne The event raised more money than expected and is increasing scholarships from $1,500 to $2,000.

Houston Methodist West Hospital Volunteers from the hospital visited families delivering teddy bears donated by Beckendorff Junior High, tigers from Katy Junior High, and blankets donated by National Charity League Katy Chapter.

Katy, Texas (March 22, 2017) – Officer Luis Santiago with the Katy ISD Police Department delivered 20 "Teddy Cop" Bears to some of our students today! Their goal is to give every PPCD, ECAP, YCAP, Lifeskills & TIP child in our school district a Police Officer Teddy Bear … specialized with a uniform and Katy ISD Police Officer badge!

In the first 5 months since the program was started, they raised over $11,000 to purchase 497 bears for students at 23 KISD elementary schools. They still need to purchase about 600 more bears for 14 more of the KISD elementary schools.

We are asking for your help to PAY IT FORWARD! Please consider making a donation for this wonderful program! You may send donations to the NCE front office. We will accept cash or checks (payable to Katy ISD), or you may purchase a gift card from the Build-a-Bear Workshop at Katy Mills Mall where the bears are made.

Here are a few pictures from this morning! More pictures can be seen by visiting the Nottingham Country Elementary School Official Facebook page.

Thank you in advance for your help, and thank you Katy ISD Police Department for the bears!!

Courtesy of Katy ISD

Katy, TX (March 21, 2017) Stretching and soft-tissue therapy are essential components of a complete exercise program. Incorporating them into your fitness routine will increase performance, reduce injury, improve range of motion and benefit overall physical fitness.

Stretching Static stretching is a slow and constant stretch, with the end position held for 20 to 30 seconds. A static stretch includes the relaxation and elongating of the stretched muscle. Dynamic stretching is a type of stretching that actively moves a joint through the full range of motion. It closely duplicates movements required for a sport or activity.

Soft-Tissue Therapy One of the most commonly used modalities in stretching routines is the foam roller, which mimic a therapist's myofascial release techniques and has been shown to increase range of motion, reduce soreness, improve tissue recovery and decrease the overall effects of stress placed on the body. Rollers come in several different lengths, densities and surface structures.

When to Use Foam rolling should be done before dynamic or static stretching exercises to increases body temperature and improve the tissue's ability to lengthen during a stretch.

How to Use When using the foam roller before exercise, roll eight to 10 times at a moderate pace along the muscle and follow with dynamic stretching. When using post-exercise, slowly roll the targeted area until the most tender spot is found. Hold on that targeted area for 20 to 30 seconds until discomfort is reduced. If discomfort becomes intolerable, back off the area.

Common Areas The most common troubled areas cyclists experience are the iliotibial bands (IT bands), hamstrings, quadriceps, glutes, hip adductors, calves and the back. These areas are very susceptible to tightness, which can lead to injury. With rigorous training programs and competitions it is vital that these areas are addressed to decrease the chances of injury and potentially increase performance.

Precautions Individuals who have been medically diagnosed or are experiencing symptoms related to osteoporosis, diabetes, high blood pressure, varicose veins or pregnancy, or who are unsure about their condition, should consult a physician before beginning to apply soft-tissue therapy.

Katy, Texas – The top five ailments to watch for in Katy this year

Written by Lana Timbs

Being sick is no fun for families, and is often inevitable. Katy doctors and pediatricians see certain illnesses often. Learn more about some of these common diagnoses and how to protect your family.

1. Ear Infections

Ear infections commonly occur when fluid behind the eardrum, or in the middle ear, becomes trapped due to inflammation and becomes infected. Colds, sinus infections, throat infections, or even allergy attacks can cause the inflammation. Symptoms include ear pain and fever.

2. Strep (Streptococcus)

Streptococcus bacteria, commonly called strep or strep throat, has been a prevalent illness among children and families. These contagious bacteria can cause chills, headache, stomachache, vomiting, fever, and sore throat – many of which are flu-like symptoms. Anyone can get strep, but some are more susceptible to it. Families with multiple children may have one child that gets strep more often than any other children in the family.

3. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is very common in childhood. This is a contagious, viral disease, originating from the coxsackievirus. Symptoms include a pimple-like rash around the mouth, soles of the feet and on the palms of the hands. Sores can occur in the back of the throat causing pain, and most children will refuse to eat even their favorite foods. There will also be a low-grade fever, around 101 to 102 degrees.

4. Impetigo

Impetigo is a skin rash, seen commonly in preschool and school-aged children. The rash is caused when streptococcus (strep) or staphylococcus (staph) bacteria get into a cut or abrasion or an area that is already irritated, like under the nose after blowing it a lot. The rash causes sores that resemble blisters that ooze fluid and look crusty. There is no fever with impetigo, and the rash is contagious. Scratching can cause it to spread from one area to another.

5. Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)

Conjunctivitis, commonly called pink eye, occurs when the eye conjunctiva, clear tissue lying over the white of the eye, becomes inflamed. There are two types of pink eye, infectious (either bacterial or viral) or non-infectious (due to allergies). The infectious type of pink eye is a common illness in younger children. Symptoms include redness and discharge in one or both of the eyes, and sometimes swelling of the eyes and eyelids.

Katy, TX (March 10, 2017) – Has the "stomach bug" hit your household? It might be the highly contagious Norovirus. Read on for some information and tips from Texas Children's Hospital West Campus.

What is norovirus?

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes acute gastroenteritis. Following introduction of rotavirus vaccination, norovirus has become the most common cause of gastroenteritis in adults and children. Viral gastroenteritis is an infection that can cause diarrhea and vomiting. It happens when a person's stomach and intestines get infected with a virus. Both adults and children can get viral gastroenteritis. The Center for Disease Control estimates norovirus to be responsible for 19-21 million illnesses, including 50,000 to 70,000 hospitalizations as well as 570 to 800 child deaths every year in the U.S. alone. Anyone can get infected with norovirus and become sick.

Your child can become infected with norovirus by accidentally getting vomit or stool from infected people in their mouth. While that may sound weird, this usually happens by: consuming contaminated food or drink, touching contaminated surfaces or objects then putting fingers in the mouth or having contact with someone infected with norovirus. Typically, norovirus outbreaks happen when infected people spread the virus to others. Outbreaks can occur in numerous institutional settings including schools, child care centers and colleges because it lives on surfaces and is resistant to many common disinfectants.

Someone with norovirus is most contagious when they are sick and the first few days after they recover.

The most common symptoms of norovirus include; diarrhea, throwing up, nausea and stomach pain. Other symptoms can include; fever, headache and body aches.

These symptoms usually appear within 12 to 48 hours of being exposed to norovirus. For most people, norovirus illness is not serious and they get better in one to three days. A person may become extremely ill and throw up or experience diarrhea multiple times a day which can lead to dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration include; decreased urination, dry mouth and throat, and feeling dizzy when standing up. Young children who are dehydrated may cry with fewer tears and usually are sleepy and fussy.

Unfortunately, there is no specific medicine to treat people infected with the norovirus illness. Norovirus cannot be treated with antibiotics because it is a viral – not bacterial – infection. If your child has the norovirus illness have them drink plenty of liquids to replace fluid lost from throwing up and diarrhea to help prevent dehydration.

These tips will help protect you and your child from norovirus.

Katy, TX (March 9, 2017) – Everybody loves a freebie now and then. We’ve tracked down all the places in Katy to get a free product, service, or meal. Take a look!

BIRTHDAY

Applebee's – Get one free birthday entree.

Arby's – Diners get a free small shake with any purchase on their birthday.

Auntie Anne's – One free birthday pretzel.

A&W Restaurants – Get a free root bear float on your big day.

Baskin Robbins – Get one 2.5 oz ice cream scoop on the house for your birthday.

BJ's Restaurants – Birthday boys and girls get a free pizookie dessert.

Buffalo Wild Wings – Free snack-size wings.

Camp Bow Wow Katy – All birthday dogs will get a free bath, a "Happy Birthday" bandanna, and a photo on their Facebook page. No credits – baths must be given on your dog's birthday. (Dogs must pass all camp requirements.) Visit campbowwow.com.

Chuck E. Cheese – Birthdays get 100 free tickets.

CiCi's Pizza – One free buffet with the purchase of an adult buffet and a regular drink.

Corner Bakery – A free cookie or bakery sweet.

Denny's – Their Grand Slam Breakfast is free on your birthday.

Fuddrucker's – $5 off your check, and kids receive free burgers on their birthday.

Great American Cookies – Get a slice of cookie cake at no charge with the purchase of a regular drink.

Grimaldi's – Get a large, one-topping pizza for free on your birthday.

IHOP – Birthday diners get a free stack of Rooty Tooty Fresh N Fruity pancakes.

James Coney Island – Enjoy a cheese coney on the house on your birthday.

Jason's Deli – Receive a $5 discount on your check.

La Madeleine – Get a free pastry on your special day.

Landry's Seafood House – Choose from a complimentary appetizer or dessert with the purchase of an entree.

Marble Slab Creamery – Receive a free small cup or cone.

Marco's Pizza – Anyone celebrating a birthday can get a free medium, one-topping pizza.

Nothing Bundt Cakes – Free Bundtlet cake on your birthday.

Olive Garden – Get a free app or dessert with the purchase of two adult entrees.

Panera Bread – Get any bakery item at no charge on your birthday.

Rainforest Cafe – Birthdays get a free appetizer with purchase of an entree.

RedBox Movie Rental – Complimentary Blu-Ray or DVD rental.

Red Lobster – Go in on your birthday and receive $5 your check with the purchase of two entrees.

Rita's Italian Ice – Get a free regular Italian ice on your big day.

Schlotzky's – Redeem one free sandwich on your birthday.

Smashburger – Enjoy a hand-spun shake on the house with the purchase of an entree.

Smoothie King – Birthdays can purchase a 20 oz. smoothie for only $2.99.

Starbucks – Free hot or cold drink, bottled beverage, or food item on your birthday.

Taco Cabana – Birthdays get a free flauta plate that includes three chicken flautas, rice, beans, pico de gallo, sour crea,guacamole, and two tortillas.

Texas Roadhouse – Chow down on a free appetizer or sidekick of ribs with the purchase of an entree on your birthday.

Which Wich – Redeem a free small sandwich on your birthday.

Wing Stop – Enjoy a free order of large fries on the house.

Zaxby's – Birthdays will receive a free Nibbler sandwich.

Zoe's Kitchen – Enjoy a free entree on your special day.

TEACHERS/SCHOOLS

Barnes & Noble – Teachers get a 20% discount on qualifying purchases when they are a part of the B&N Educator Program.

Leafology Tea Lounge Katy – Katy ISD teachers and faculty will receive 25% off a menu item when they present a valid ID. Visit leafologytealounge.com.

McDonald's – Katy ISD teachers and faculty will receive a free small McCafe coffee when they present their school ID during the 2016-2017 school year. (Participating locations – see our blogs page for details.)

Katy Budget Books – Teachers will receive 20% off in-store pick-up or school delivery when they order new books for their classrooms. They also have a Used Book Credit Account that has been donated to public school teachers for the purchase of used books for the classroom. Visit katybooks.com.

Michael's – Teachers can get 15% their entire in-store purchase.

Peter Chang Restaurant – Katy ISD teachers and faculty can receive 10-50% off in January and August. Visit peterchangtx.com.

Texas Roadhouse – Teachers can get 10% off their meal every Tuesday with a valid school ID.

Verum Vi CrossFit Katy – Full-time teachers and students receive 10% off of their membership.

MILITARY/FIRST RESPONDERS

24 Hour Fitness – Active, reserve, and retired military and dependents receive 10% off their membership, and free workouts on Memorial Day weekend.

A&W – Active military can present valid military ID for a special discount at their Katy store. Details vary by location.

Aeropostale – Active, retired, and reserve military and their dependents get 20% off their purchase at any store nationwide.

Anne Taylor Loft – The Katy Mills Mall location offers 15% off full-priced items for active, reserved, and retired military and their dependents.

AT&T – Active, reserve, and retired military as well as veterans will receive a 15% government discount with a valid military or VA ID. Veterans must show a copy of your DD214 at all Katy locations.

AutoZone – Offers free shipping for online orders for any FPO or APO address for active, retired, and reserve military. Check with individual Katy stores for additional military discount programs.

Banana Republic – Their Katy Mills location offers 10% off in-store purchases on the first Monday of every month for active, retiree, reserved, veterans, and dependents.

Bass Pro Shop – From the 15th to the 22nd of every month, active, retired, reserve, veterans, and dependents can receive a store-specific discount when they present active military ID or DD214. Discount does not include reels, electronics, firearms, ammunition and reloading equipment, scopes, bows, arrows, taxidermy, gift cards, Tracker boats, Mercury motors, or ATV's.

Camp Bow Wow – All military personnel receive 10% off all boarding and day camps, and 5% off of retail services. Just show proof of employment for the discount to be applied. (Dogs must pass all camp requirements.) Visit campbowwow.com.

Country Park Portraits– Active military personnel can receive a complimentary portrait session and 8 x 10 photo when they present a military ID.

Eddie Bauer – Active, retired, and reserve military and their families can receive 10 – 15% off in-store purchases. Must ask about veteran discounts at your location.

El Pollo Loco – Military service members receive 15% off of their order.

Goodwill – Offers 30% discounts to first-responders and their families every Friday.

Lowe's Home Improvement – They offer a 10% military discount to active military, retired veterans, and immediate family. Must present a valid DD214 or other proof of service. Personal purchases only.

Michael's – Military and immediate family can receive 15% off their entire in-store purchase when they present a valid military ID.

Peter Chang Restaurant – Police officers can get discounts in April and October, family members of military in the month of May, and firefighters (regular, volunteer, and family) in the month of September. Discounts range from 10 – 50 percent and valid occupation ID is required. Visit peterchangtx.com.

Texas Roadhouse – Military members get 30% off their meal every day.

Verum Vi CrossFit Katy – Police, firefighters, EMT, and active military receive 15% off of their membership. Veterans receive 10% off of their membership.

WellPet Center Veterinary Hospital – Pets of active or veteran military and public service members get 15% off of their service.

SENIOR CITIZEN DISCOUNTS Applebee's – Diners aged 60 and up can get 10 to 15% off their meal at certain locations.

Burger King – Ages 60+ receive 10% off their order plus additional discounts on coffee and soft drinks.

Carrabba's Italian Grill – AARP members get 15% off their entire meal.

Denny's – Most locations offer 15% AARP members who are 55 and older.

Dunkin’ Donuts – AARP members get a free donut with the purchase of a large or extra large coffee.

El Pollo Loco – Seniors 60 and over receive 10% off their order.

Fuddrucker's – Get 10% any senior platter if you are over 55 years old.

IHOP – They offer special pricing on breakfast items for diners over 55.

Office Depot/Office Max – AMAC members get 10% off office products.

Stein Mart – Shoppers over the age of 55 get 20% every Monday.

Katy, TX News (March 8, 2017) – Teachers can get their coffee fix every Monday during the school year at one of these McDonald's locations.

Seven Meadows 7104 S. Fry Rd.

Cross Creek Ranch 6748 FM 1463, Fulshear

Spring Green 27140 Cinco Ranch Blvd.

Stop by and present a school ID for a free small McCafe coffee.

Katy, TX (March 7, 2017) – Katyites can pack up the family vehicle and embark on a spring break adventure without ever leaving Texas.

Written by Kennan Buckner

Make special memories with your kiddos as you make new friends, both human and animal, at these spring break hot spots. From cooling off by a lake to sipping drinks poolside, vacationers are sure to have fun they’ll never forget at these Texas destinations.

AUSTIN

AUSTIN AQUARIUM austinaquarium.com Visit the Austin Aquarium for a close-up with sharks, stingrays, corals, and a giant Pacific octopus. You might even see a mermaid on weekends. Buy tickets online and save $3.

BARTON SPRINGS POOL austintexas.gov Inside Zilker Park, you’ll find your own oasis at Barton Springs Pool, fed from underground springs with an average temperature of 70 degrees.

LAKE TRAVIS ziplaketravis.com Bring your fishing reels for shoreline fishing and a picnic basket for lunch beside beautiful Lake Travis. Thrill-seekers can visit Austin Outdoor Zipline Adventure to zip through the trees and over

the water. Lodging is also offered.

CORPUS CHRISTI

HURRICANE ALLEY WATERPARK hurricanealleycc.com

After a day at the sandy beach, head over to the Hurricane Alley Waterpark which offers everything from a lazy river and water slides to a kid's cove with mini slides and a swimup bar offering kid-friendly beverages.

USS LEXINGTON usslexington.com

Resting in Corpus Christi Bay is the USS Lexington, which served as a carrier during World War II. Take a self-guided tour of the ship or visit the museum, virtual battle stations, or the 3D mega theater.

TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM texasstateaquarium.org

Touch and feed stingrays at the Texas State Aquarium or make friends with sea turtles at Tortuga Cay. Families will also enjoy the underwater view of a 125,000-gallon exhibit featuring an entire ecosystem. Save $3 on weekday tickets online.

DALLAS

DALLAS ZOO dallaszoo.com

Trot the globe without ever leaving Texas at the Dallas Zoo. From elephants to penguins, visitors can embark on a fun day of discovery. The children's area features friendly goats, pigs, and other farm animals.

GREAT WOLF LODGE greatwolf.com

Go from swimming and splashing back to your wolf denthemed room or premium suite without ever having to get in your car. The Great Wolf Lodge offers endless indoor water fun, character appearances, dining, shopping, spas, and more – all under one giant roof.

LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER dallasfw.legolanddiscoverycenter.com

A LEGO lover's dream, this one-of-a-kind experience offers a LEGO factory tour, 4D cinema, and adventures like the Merlin's apprentice and kingdom quest rides. Visitors can also build and test their own LEGO car or explore the Star Wars miniland model display.

GALVESTON

BOLIVAR PENINSULA bolivarpeninsulatexas.com

Ride the Galveston-Port Bolivar ferry from the mainland to Bolivar peninsula. The free trip, which sails 2.7 miles, lasts about 18 minutes. Then visit the peninsula's lighthouse built in 1852. It's survived the 1900 and 1915 storms and Hurricane Ike.

MOODY GARDENS moodygardens.com

Have an educational adventure while exploring Moody Gardens. The Aquarium Pyramid, Rainforest Pyramid, Discovery Museum, and 3D and 4D theaters immerse visitors in a tropical paradise. Adventurers can also try the five-tier ropes course or zip line over Palm Beach.

SCHLITTERBAHN schlitterbahn.com

Schlitterbahn Galveston Island Waterpark opens March 4 and features indoor family fun on the Boogie Bahn surf ride or amid the 70,000 square feet of slides, pools, kids’ area, and secluded beaches. Open daily March 11 to 19 for spring break.

SAN ANTONIO

THE ALAMO thealamo.org

Visit the Lone Star State's historical landmark where the first stone for the Spanish mission was laid in 1744. It's open year-round and entrance is free. Last July, archaeologists discovered an adobe wall about 23 inches below the flagstone surface.

RIVERWALK thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Shopping, dining, art, and river taxi rides await along the San Antonio Riverwalk. Visitors can walk the Riverwalk all the way from the hip Pearl District to the Shops at Rivercenter, Tower of Americas, and the Mission Reach.

SEAWORLD seaworldparks.com

Meet Jack Hanna during the family favorite "Wild Days" taking place March 4 to 26 when SeaWorld brings you brand new shows, rides, and attractions. Or get up close with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, beluga whales, and sea lions during an interactive swim at Discovery Point. KM

Katy, TX (March 6, 2017) – Katy Magazine has compiled a list of Easter Sunday services and family events for 2017.

EASTER SUNDAY SERVICES

Church services in Katy, Texas on Sunday, April 16, 2017

Bridgepoint Bible Church 13277 Katy Fwy., Houston

Services will begin at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. There will be an Easter egg hunt for children immediately following the 11 a.m. service. Visit bridgepointbible.org.

Central Baptist Church 2855 Greenhouse Rd., Houston

There will be an Easter drama performance in lieu of a service at 11 a.m. Visit cbchou.org.

Higher Dimension Church 5819 10th St.

There will be services at 8, 9:15, 10:30, and 12:30 on Easter Sunday. Visit higherd.net.

Kingsland Baptist Church 20555 Kingsland Blvd.

They will have a 7 a.m. sunrise service, and services at 8, 9:30, and 11 a.m. There will also be a Saturday service at 3, 5, and 7 p.m., and a Spanish service at 6:15 p.m. in the Courts. Visit kingsland.org.

Second Baptist Church – West Campus 19449 Katy Fwy.

Join the SBC family for 9:30 and 11 a.m. services. Visit second.org.

Bethel Bible Fellowship 25335 Fulshear Gaston Rd., Richmond 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.

The Church at Cane Island Katy High School 6331 Highway Blvd. 9:30 a.m.

Church of the Holy Apostles 1225 W. Grand Pkwy. S. 8 and 10:30 a.m.

CrossPoint Community Church 700 S. Westgreen Blvd. 9 and 11 a.m.

Epiphany of the Lord Catholic Church 1530 Norwalk Dr. 8, 9:45 and 11:30 a.m., and 5:30 p.m.

The Fellowship 22765 Westheimer Pkwy. 8:45, 10:05, and 11:25 a.m.

First Baptist Church of Katy 600 Pin Oak Rd. 8:30 and 10:30 a.m.

First United Methodist Church 5601 5th St. 8:30, 9:45, and 11 a.m.

Grace Anglican Community 24968 Katy Ranch Rd. 9:30 a.m.

Grace Community Fellowship Exley Elementary 21800 Westheimer Pkwy. 10:45 a.m.

Grace Fellowship United Methodist Church 2655 S. Mason Rd. 8:45 and 10:45 a.m.

Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church 6035 S. Fry Rd. 9, 10, and 11 a.m.

Holy Covenant Methodist Church 22111 Morton Rd. 8:30 and 11 a.m.

St. Edith Stein Catholic Service 3311 N. Fry Rd. 9 and 11 a.m., and 6 p.m.

St. Paul's Episcopal Church 5373 Franz Rd. 8 and 11:30 a.m.

St. Peter's United Methodist Church 20775 Kingsland Blvd. 6:30, 8, 9:30, and 11 a.m.

The Waters Church 2710 N. Mason Rd. 9:15 and 11 a.m.

Westland Baptist Church 1407 W. Grand Pkwy S. 8:30, 9:45, and 11 a.m. (11 a.m. service will have a deaf interpreter)

EASTER EVENTS

A list of family-friendly Easter events in Katy, Texas

Saturday – Sunday, April 15 – 16, 2017 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Easter Extravaganza Blessington Farms 510 Chisolm Trail, Wallis

Families can enjoy a day of Easter fun with egg hunts, playing in Farm Funland, and picking strawberries. Visit blessingtonfarms.com.

Friday, April 14, 2017 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Hop Into Spring with the Easter Bunny LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd.

Families can take a photo with the Easter Bunny while enjoying musical performances, games, and more. Visit lacenterra.com.

Friday, April 14, 2017 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. Journey to the Cross and Personal Lord's Supper Family Walk-Through Kingsland Baptist Church 20555 Kingsland Blvd.

The Journey to the Cross walk through is a brief, come-and-go experience for preschool and children's families to gain a better understanding of the events that led to Jesus Christ's ultimate sacrifice. Interactive stations will encourage discussion and participation for the entire family, located in the Crawford Center. The Lord's Supper is a powerful way to remember Christ's sacrifice. Guides will be provided to walk families through an intimate time of reflection, located in the Worship Center. Visit kingsland.org.

Friday, April 14, 2017 6:30 p.m. Bethel Bible Fellowship 25335 Fulshear Gaston Rd., Richmond

Join them as they remember Christ's sacrifice on Good Friday. Childcare will be provided for ages 4 and under.

Saturday, April 15, 2017 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Easter Festival Central Baptist Church 2855 Greenhouse Rd.

Enjoy the Easter festival with family and friends. They will have games, food, candy, a petting zoo, pony rides, face painting, and much more.

Saturday, April 15, 2017 10:00 a.m. EGG-Stravaganza Easter Show and Egg Hunt The Fellowship 22765 Westheimer Pkwy.

Children and parents alike will enjoy award-winning ventriloquist, story-teller, and musician Dennis Lee. Kids can visit with the Easter Bunny and the Chick-fil-A Cow. Admission is free, but tickets must be reserved online at thefellowship.org.

Saturday, April 15, 2017 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. or 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Easter at the Ranch Smith Ranch 25440 Beckendorff Rd. Kids can run, play, and hop until their hearts content with a special day of fun at this 40-acre ranch. Hunts will be divided by age. Visit smithranchkaty.com.

Saturday, April 15, 2017 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Cypress Custom Pools 14119 Grant Rd., Cypress

They will have an Easter egg hunt, games, and food for everyone. Visitors will have the opportunity to look around the design center and see two demonstration pools. There will be door prizes so make sure to invite the whole family.

Saturday, April 15, 2017 5:30 – 9:00 p.m. Fun Glow Run & Flashlight Egg Hunt Jordan Ranch 30722 Sonora Ridge Dr., Brookshire

You don't want to miss this nighttime Easter adventure. Families can participate in a 3-mile run, walk, or bike ride through the neighborhood. After the race, children and teens can participate in an egg hunt by flashlight. Proceeds benefit the March of Dimes Foundation.

Sunday, April, 16, 2017 10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Easter Brunch Sammy's Steakhouse 7035 W. Grand Pkwy. S.

Specialty drinks and a custom brunch menu for those with a reservation. Call 281-762-0866.

Sunday, April 16, 2017 11:00 a.m. Easter Celebration The Church at Cane Island 6331 Highway Blvd.

There will be a fun, day filled with Easter egg hunts, crafts, music, and more.

Sunday, April 16, 2017 12:30 or 1:00 p.m. Glow-in-the-Dark Hunt TILT Studio 5000 Katy Mills Cir.

Get your glow on with two Easter egg hunts! Kids ages 2 to 6 will pick an egg from display in the Black Light Mini-Golf course at 12:30 p.m., while kids ages 7 to 11 will hunt in the Black Light laser tag arena at 1 p.m. Visit tiltstudio.com.

Katy, TX News (March 2, 2017) – Are you and your family headed out to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo this year? We have great news! You can get carnival ticket packs for half-price if you order by Saturday, March 4, 2017.

$10 Carnival Pack ($34 Value)

$50 Carnival Pack ($133.50 Value)

$20 Carnival Food Card ($30 Value)

Half-Price Carnival Packs may be used during the WCBBQ from March 2 – 4, 2017, and a show from March 7 – 26, 2017. Order online at rodeohouston.com/carnivaltickets.

Katy, TX News (March 2, 2017) – When it comes to working toward a successful business, Sam Zavary says the key is planning, planning, planning.

That was the message of the Exclusive Furniture CEO's presentation Thursday night at the University of Houston-Victoria Katy Campus. Zavary shared his knowledge with UHV students, alumni, faculty and staff, and community members as part of the UHV School of Business Administration Distinguished Speaker Series.

"The Distinguished Speaker Series gives UHV students access to some of the wisdom and personal experiences of leaders in the business world," said Farhang Niroomand, dean of the UHV School of Business Administration. "Sam Zavary's presentation was full of insight and advice that reinforces many of the concepts taught in our classrooms. We are grateful for his participation in the series."

Zavary began selling furniture 18 years ago in a 2,000-square-foot store. Now, the company has access to 250,000 square feet of space, including warehousing and seven Exclusive Furniture locations throughout Houston.

The CEO took a more interactive approach to his presentation than many previous speakers. Instead of a long lecture, he opened with a 10-minute presentation, then took questions from the large audience.

"This was a great opportunity for our students to have personal interaction with someone who was just like them 18 years ago," said Jifu Wang, associate dean of the UHV School of Business Administration. "Students can learn the theory of how to be successful in the classroom and even get some experience through simulations, but it's important for them to see these high-caliber, successful stories in person."

In addition to planning, Zavary emphasized the importance of communication and training. Poor communication can lead to all kinds of problems for businesses, he said. And because the market constantly is changing, it is vital that employees go through training that reflects those changes.

"My employees undergo training every day," he said. "It is what makes us different from our competitors."

At the end of the discussion, Zavary referred to the changing attitude many people have toward shopping and making major purchases. Today, more and more customers are interested in buying everything from clothes to furniture online instead of going to a store. If retail businesses want to remain successful, they must find a way to integrate those changes into their business models, he said.

"The point about the importance of integrating online sales and social media is an important one for today's students," Wang said. "At its core, business is about getting results, and we train our students to create solutions to the changes in customers’ preferences and shifts in the business environment."

In addition to Zavary's presentation, the winners of the December 2016 undergraduate and graduate Case Conferences were recognized during the event. The first-, second- and third-place teams and honorable mentions were given plaques and honored for their achievement.

Since 2011, the UHV School of Business Administration Distinguished Speaker Series has brought in area executives to discuss contemporary business issues. Past speakers have included Mike Rydin, Heavy Construction System Specialist CEO; Helen Sharkey, a former consultant with Dynegy; Ben Keating, president and owner of Keating Auto Group and Viper Exchange Racing; and Roger Dartt, DeLorean Motor Co. president.

Katy, TX News (March 1, 2017) – Katy ISD is sharing information about the State, district and your child's campus as part of our obligations under the federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB). An information letter, along with a copy of the 2015-16 Federal Report Cards for the State, district and individual campuses are available for review online at tea.texas.gov.

An optional notification letter in English and Spanish is available if you choose to use this method of communicating. This is not a requirement. It is not necessary to send the Federal Report Card home with students.

Katy, TX (February 27, 2017) – Parker Brown, a 5-year-old Katy boy with hydrocephalus who loves cars and blowing bubbles, shows others that living with a disease can't stop him from enjoying life.

The path of life is different for every family, with unique plans for everyone. A big part of the Brown family plan was revealed over five years ago, when Dave and Leah Brown found out they were going to be the parents of a very special little boy.

At Leah's 20-week ultrasound, where doctors commonly check the anatomy of the growing baby inside the mom, it showed that Parker had an excess of fluid in his brain, a condition called congenital hydrocephalus. The fluid surrounding Parker's brain was not allowing his brain to grow as a normal one would, and was causing great damage. Fluid was pushing his brain to the outside of his skull, making the brain appear almost non-existent.

Parker Mason Brown was born at 36 weeks on September 16, 2011 via C-section. Two days after his birth, Parker had his first brain surgery, where the doctors removed two pounds of fluid, and inserted a brain shunt. A shunt is a device with tubing that allows the cerebrospinal fluid from the brain to flow out through a tube down to the abdomen where the fluid is absorbed back into the body. Parker's first shunt was placed at the back of his skull, near his neck area.

Parker was at Texas Children's Hospital in the care of the NICU for 16 days following his birth. "Saying that now, it sounds very short, only 16 days, but when you are going through all of that, those days feel like a lifetime," says Leah. Leah and Dave learned how to feed baby Parker through the use of a feeding tube enabling them to bring him home.

Getting Through as a Family A side effect of hydrocephalus is epilepsy, and at 3 months old, Parker began having seizures. His seizures, controlled with a daily medication, usually occur now when he outgrows his dosage. "You learn to deal with it and how to handle it," says Leah, as this is just part of her everyday life.

At 6 months, his brain shunt failed. Shunt failure is very common, and Parker had a second brain surgery to receive a new one placed near the front, right side of his head. When Leah discusses the shunt and the procedure, little Parker will reach to the top of his head and feel for it. He doesn't mind if others see and touch it; he's even proud to show off the scars on his neck and abdomen.

Living Life Currently, Parker attends a PPCD (preschool program for children with disabilities) in Katy. He has a daily routine and seems to love school. Leah and Dave want Parker to be around other children his age because he rarely is and interacts mostly with adults. When asked what his favorite part of school is, Parker says, "riding the school bus," which makes sense, as Parker is infatuated with cars and garages. He loves to go for rides around the neighborhood, and different neighbors will swing by to take him for a ride. Parker says shyly, "My favorite car is a Corolla." He loves them so much that a Corolla even made his Christmas list!

Parker works with physical therapists to build up his weaker muscles, on applied behavior therapy for life skills, and occupational therapy for motor skills. Parker is about the size of his little sister Emery who is 2 years old. Leah says that Emery and Parker are starting to interact some, and Emery has a sense that Parker is not typical. She often lends him a hand with things; for example, when they are playing with bubbles. Parker has a tremor with his arm and hand so sometimes it is hard for him to hold the bubble wand, so Emery will help her brother out.

The Most Loving Boy Sweet and cuddly definitely describe Parker. He loves to touch, feel, and be loved on. Leah recalls a time when they were out shopping, waiting to check out, and Parker reached out and started rubbing on another shopper's behind. "It is quite embarrassing. People look at us as if we are crazy because my son is rubbing on them. They don't realize that he doesn't know not to do that to strangers," says Leah.

In the words of Leah, "Parker is truly one-of-a-kind, no one in the world is like him." She means that literally, as no one in the world has the same amount or type of brain damage as Parker. KM

LANA TIMBS is an Aggie and mother of two who loves spending time with family and friends.

Katy, TX (February 20, 2017) – Childhood cancer survivor and Seven Lakes High School graduate, Samantha Loos-Polk, goes back to where it all began.

The afternoon Samantha Loos-Polk was training at the gym was like any other. In preparation for an upcoming Taekwondo tournament, the then 13-year-old freshman at Seven Lakes High School and second-degree black belt was performing strength and conditioning training. But when she swung a dumbbell as part of a squat exercise, she immediately felt pain in her back and knew something wasn't right. The events that followed, and the diagnosis that awaited her, would change the course of her life forever.

More Than a Routine Injury Aside from sore muscles following her injury, Samantha was also unusually fatigued. Accustomed to a rigorous schedule with her studies, choir, and martial arts, she suddenly wasn't able to keep up. "I was exhausted all the time, and it was difficult to walk from class to class," she remembers. She also began to develop bruises on her legs, along with tiny red spots on her wrists and eventually throughout her body.

Concerned and on a mission for answers, she and her parents, Margaret Loos-Polk and James Polk, visited a battery of doctors, and she eventually underwent blood tests. Around 4 a.m. the morning after her tests, Margaret received a call instructing them to take Samantha to a hospital immediately. Her platelets were extremely low, so much so she could have bled to death.

The Diagnosis Samantha was eventually taken to Texas Children's Hospital (TCH). It was here, in room one on the ninth floor of the West Tower, her symptoms were given an official name: acute lymphoblastic leukemia. She soon underwent 10 days of intensive chemotherapy. And while the treatment effectively fought the cancer, it wreaked havoc on her immune system.

When Samantha was eventually released, she was very weak and in constant pain. A few days after being home, she developed a fever and was rushed back to the hospital. After a series of tests, doctors determined she had acquired a rare type of fungal infection called Fusarium. It was prevalent in her blood, in and around her lungs, kidneys, left eye, and skin. From here, Samantha endured eight eye and four nose surgeries over the course of a nine-month stay at TCH. To date, she is the longest-known survivor of this type of infection.

Destiny Determined Samantha's journey nurtured a passion within her to help others with similar obstacles. So inspired by the level of care she received from the nurses at TCH, she set her mind on achieving a nursing degree, with a specialty in pediatric oncology, from University of St. Thomas. She reflects, "I knew I wanted to pursue a career that made a difference in people's lives prior to my diagnosis, but I didn't know what exactly that would look like until I survived cancer and the fungal infection. From that point on, I knew the superhero I wanted to be was a nurse."

And now, from the very place she was diagnosed and treated, the ninth floor of the West Tower of TCH, she cares for and comforts young patients facing cancer. "I know I can help others in their battle because of my personal understanding of what they’re going through. My unique perspective enables me to treat patients holistically and ensure their families are provided much needed support," she says.

When asked about her greatest source of encouragement during her toughest times, she credits her parents, who were by her side every minute of every day. She is also grateful for several organizations that ministered to both her and her family, including Harley's Helpers Angel Ministry, Snowdrop Foundation, and B.I.G. Love Cancer Care. These groups supplied parking tokens, gas and gift cards, groceries, laundry baskets, blankets, and regular visits. In fact, Samantha was awarded three scholarships from two of these organizations.

The Path Ahead Samantha is now a five-year cancer survivor. She undergoes yearly checkups at TCH, along with regular assessments by her ophthalmologist. During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and boyfriend, Ryleigh; snuggling with her cat, Binx; reading; and watching movies. She also serves as co-secretary of St. Thomas’ Sigma Theta Tau International nursing honor society.

Her story is one of struggle, determination, perseverance, and triumph. It's also a poignant reminder that adversity, when met with hope and a fighting spirit, can be an unexpected but most impactful teacher. KM

ANNA-CATHERINE ROSE lives in Katy and is a firm believer that struggle is what connects us and is always accompanied by a purpose.

Here are some fun, unusual, and traditional birthday parties that has something for every kind of Katy kid. Enjoy this list of the coolest and most creative places to throw a kids birthday party in Katy.

KATY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2020

by Katy Magazine Editors

KATY GYMNASTICS & SPORTS PERFORMANCE

22570 Franz Rd.

281-215-3442

Book your child's awesomely fun gymnastics party package that includes supervised gym time, obstacle courses, games, a private party room and more.

Call 281-215-3442 or visit their website to make a reservation.

FUNTASTIK LABS

615 S. Mason Rd. 281-819-6363

IRACE

24984 Katy Ranch Rd.

281 394-5083

Two levels of Kart racing, NASCAR Simulators, Bowling, iBlast, Hologate Virtual Reality, Arcade Games, Garage Bar and Restaurant. Awesome Party Suites are available.

USA NINJA

22564 Franz Rd.

281 394-1986

A full physical fitness program for today's youth ages 4-17. Every obstacle course includes corresponding conditioning and flexibility stations. The desired result of this program is to improve children's strength, flexibility and all-around athleticism.

iFLy

9540 Katy Fwy.

281 942-4359

Indoor skydiving is the perfect activity for Katy daredevils. iFly offers birthday parties to corporate events and everything in between. It's a fun activity for kids of all ages and we have a feeling skydiving could become families with kids new hobby, right here in Katy!

Cinemark 19 1030 W Grand Pkwy N,

281-371-6008 Parties include a party room and movie. Upgrade to a private movie screening with 20+ guests. Each child receives a Movie Snack Pack. Contact the Theater Manager to schedule.

The Crazy Canvas

You Choose Your Location

(281) 253-3294

Now mobile with no permanent studio location, The Crazy Canvas brings the party to you. Kids paint parties are $30/guest for a 2-hour party which includes 30 minutes for cake, presents and painting supplies for an 8×10″, 12×12″ or 16×20″ canvas paint class and you select the painting to be instructed.

Katy Inflatable

2482 South Mason Road, Katy

281-574-3033

Katy's only private Inflatable Birthday Party Place and bounce facilities in Katy. Custom designed 16,500 ft facility designed with safety and functionality in mind. Use their online reservation system to book and confirm birthday party packages online.

Alternate Reality Escape Rooms 21788 Katy Fwy,

281-394-7848

Choose from 3 rooms…Bunker 57, Piece Meal, and Steampunk. For children 12 & up and parents can book a game room for up to 20 people for $150 per hour.

Jo-Ann Stores 1219 N Fry Rd,

281-599-3091

Craft birthday classes include 2-hours of an instructor led craft class for children 5 – 12 years old. Parties also include a gift for the birthday child and invitations. Parents can bring snacks, cake, drink and decorations.

Dear Marlowe Photography

Board & Brush Creative Studio 1315 W Grand Pkwy S,

281-914-5358

The wood sign party includes a staff member to guide them during the 2 hours of studio time. Parents can bring in cake, snacks and drinks. Geared towards children ages 6-15 years old.

Katy Go Karts, Mini Golf & Batting Cages 2482 S Mason Rd,

281-574-3045

Packages can include a combination of a round of golf, batting cage and/or go cart . You will have an outdoor table for 2 hours and we provide plates and eating utensils. Pizza can be added for an additional charge. Parents supply cake/cupcake and drinks.

Glowzone 830 Katy Fort Bend Rd,

281-383-9380 There are five uniquely themed party rooms to choose from like private access to Nerf Cannons, XBox Gamer Room, Interactive Dance Floor and Just Dance 15, and a customizable dance floor. Seat 20 – 25.

Pros Katy Indoor Soccer 1005 Airline Dr Suite B,

832-704-3038

Rent this facility for 2-3 hours playing games such as soccer, dodge ball, and kickball with a game director. Facility provides paper good. Parent supplies food and other decorations

Painting with a Twist 20020 S Fry Rd,

281-578-8862

During your 2 hour party, an Instructor will guide your children (6+ years) to create a painting chosen by you. Parent provides the food and decorations.

TopGolf Katy 1030 Memorial Brook Ln.

281 406-3176

TopGolf has Interactive golf games for all ages and skill levels that are a nice change from traditional arcade games. Two hours of Topgolf game play and selection from kids menu options for birthday party packages.

TILT Studio

5000 Katy Mills Cir.

281 644-2340

A one stop entertainment guarantee inside Katy Mills Mall, with arcade games, mini golf, and laser tag, four party packages to choose from including party host and food.

Stephanie Durango

Paloma Trails 10655 Katy Hockley Rd,

713-715-9363

Choose between 3 birthday packages each includes time with a pony/horse. Parents provide food and decorations.

Smith Ranch 25440 Beckendorff Rd,

281-371-3318

Two party options includes waterslide/bounce house, pizza, drinks, pavilion, invitations, paper products, balloon bouquet and gift bags. Add-ons include paddle boating, pony ride, hayride, petting zoo, snow cones and cotton candy. Parent supplies the cake and decorations.

Jamie Mills

The Storybook Cottage 5814 1st St,

281-574-5707

Four tea party options. Everything provided. Parties for children 4 & up.

Typhoon Texas Waterpark

555 S Katy Fort Bend Rd,

832-426-7071

Base birthday includes pizza, drinks, birthday shirt and reserved space at the Birthday Barn. Add-ons include goodie bags, cupcakes, cabana, fast pass, VIP host and souvenir bottle.

Vortexic Martial Arts 3760 S Mason Rd.

832-819-4862 Choose between the Ki-Hap, Ninja, and Samurai parties that includes an 1.5 hour basic training in Tae Kwan Do by a certified black belt instructor. Parents provide food, drink, and decorations. The guest of honor will enjoy cutting their cake with a samurai sword and having the unique opportunity to break a real board in front of their friends.

More Birthday Party Places in Katy

Altitude Trampoline Park

24952 Katy Ranch Rd

281-394-9227

Build-A-Bear Workshop

5000 Katy Mills Circle

346-307-8192

Chuck E. Cheese

2002 Gulfmont Dr,

281-644-4949

Giggles and Fun

20117 Park Row,

281-492-2000

Hooray Indoor Playground

3750 S Mason Rd,

346-387-6635

Inflatable Katy

2482 S Mason Rd,

281-574-3033

Jumpstreet

5000 Katy Mills Cir,

281-347-3911

Main Event

24401 Katy Freeway,

281-394-480

Mason Road Skate Center

535 Applewhite Dr,

281-392-9555

Monkey Joe's

511-A S Mason Rd,

832-321-4420

My Gym Katy

414 W Grand Pkwy,

832-437-8940

The Little Gym

23010A Highland Knolls,

281-347-1400

Times Square Entertainment

402 W Grand Pkwy S,

281-395-8555

Westwood Gymnastics & Dance

23333 Taswell Dr,

281-347-2000

Katy BIRTHDAY Cuties

Stephanie Durango

Jacob By Jb Photography – Time Captured

Fazzarna Rabbi

Rebecca Navarette Lucero

Jaime Lannou Shipley

Alexandra Marie Herrera

Michelle Daniel

Katy, TX (February 16, 2017) – Time is running out to submit your nomination for the naming of the second stadium! This new facility will join Rhodes Stadium in the Academy Sports + Outdoors Student Activities Complex this fall.

The deadline for nominations is tomorrow, February 17 at 4 p.m.

For specific facility naming guidelines check out the Katy ISD Board Policy CW (Local). To submit a name for the Katy ISD second stadium, please use the Nomination for Naming a New School or Facility Form which can be submitted:

To learn more about the facility naming process visit the Katy ISD School or Facility Naming webpage.

Katy, TX (February 13, 2017) – Valentine's Day has become a holiday filled with lots of candy and treats. Try to take the focus away from all of the candy this year by making some delicious and healthy treats with your children instead! Red fruits like strawberries, cherries, pomegranates and raspberries are natural ingredients for Valentine's Day treats. Frozen fruits are a good substitute if you can't find a fresh alternative and will work in many of the recipes below.

Here are some recipes you and your children can make and enjoy at home:

Have your children help make these treats to "share the love" with family and friends:

*Based on recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, certain foods like nuts, seeds, hard pretzels, etc. may pose choking or allergy risks for children under the age of 4. Please consult your child's pediatrician before serving these foods to children under age 4.

Katy, TX (February 6, 2017) – With a brand new music video, "The Real Me," out and an EP on the horizon, this Seven Lakes High School senior is headed for stardom.

Ever since attending her first concert with her father, Greg Conklin, at the age of 4, Taylor Thi has been consumed with a passion for performing and songwriting. "We saw James [Vernon] Taylor, and I was so amazed by all the cheering that I turned to my dad and asked him why everyone was making noise. He said, ‘See that man up there? They’re clapping for him.’ Ever since then I’ve wanted to be a singer."

Drawing Inspiration Although she began formally training at the age of 15, she considers her sixth-grade performance her official debut. "I performed ‘Material Girl’ by Madonna at the Beckendorff Junior High pop concert," she says. And she has been strategically placing herself in local gigs in order to build a following ever since.

"The rush of adrenaline is unexplainable; you can walk on stage and be whoever you want to be. You can be confident, a completely different person and just let loose," she adds. "You forget everything and just feel free in that moment." Thi spends hours at a time writing notes and lyrics. "Every song I write has a special meaning to me because I never want to write about something I don't mean or feel."

Wildest Dreams The young songwriter finds strength to pursue her dreams close to home. "My family has always been my biggest supporters no matter what. I’m extremely family-oriented and they are the ones I show all my music to first. Everything I do, they see or get to hear before I announce or release anything," she says.

Thi comes from a family not afraid to pursue their wildest dreams, and credits her father for giving her the courage to try. "He was from a small town, lived on a farm, and grew up being told by everyone he knew that he would never achieve his dream of being a pilot. He has now been a pilot for 41 years. Every time someone tries to tear me down, I think about my dad, and I know I’ll prove them wrong."

Thi recently directed her own music video for her original song, "The Real Me," which received over 20,000 views on YouTube. "It was such an amazing experience," she says.

Armed with a notebook full of material, Thi plans to continue working on singles and eventually produce her first EP. But her future plans also include receiving an education. "I would love to go to college for audio engineering or songwriting," she adds. "I’m still deciding, but I’m positive I’ll be around music no matter what." KM

Katy, TX (January 23, 2017) – Two teachers at British International School in Katy, Texas did exceptionally well at the Houston Marathon earlier this month. Mr. Tim Barnett (primary, year six) placed second in his age category and third place overall with a race time of 39:20 and Mr. Ben Brown (primary, year one) placed second in his category at the Choco Loco 10K.

Katy, TX January 17, 2017

Models don't just live in Milan, Paris, or New York. There are stunning and talented models who were raised or live right here in Katy.

Written by Lacey Kupfer Wulf

Modeling is not an easy profession. It comes with harsh criticism, working long hours in uncomfortable clothing or weather, and demanding bosses. These five beautiful girls and women share how to look past the hard stuff and revel in the spotlight of being a top model.

Legendary Model Tatiana LaBello, formerly Tatiana Anderson, is a model with ambition. By age 9, she had over 150 trophies in modeling, beauty pageants, dance, pep squad, cheerleading, and baton twirling. She even taught aerobics classes in Katy at age 14. After graduating from Katy High School, LaBello became a professional cheerleader for three major sports teams: the NFL Denver Broncos, the NBA Houston Rockets, and the USFL Houston Gamblers; wrote a fitness book, and received many fitness pageant titles.

Her greatest claim to fame, however, is being the host of ESPN's top-rated fitness show Kiana's Flex Appeal. She also hosted a lifestyle show with Robin Leach on CBS and was interviewed on extra, Inside Edition, and appeared in episodes of Friends, Baywatch, and She Spies. Now, as a healthy lifestyle coach and owner of LaBello Lifestyle, she has relocated to Houston to be closer to family. She says, "True beauty comes from the inside. We need to work equally on the inside, mentally and spiritually, as much as the outside."

On a Whim When Amy Gonzales heard about a casting call for a local Houston magazine, JMG Magazine, she decided to try out. She says, "I was so nervous when I walked in and saw so many tall, beautiful girls who knew exactly what they were doing." Despite her lack of modeling experience, she was chosen and was shooting outdoors in 100-degree weather two weeks later. "It was quite the warm welcome to the industry!" she says.

Since that first experience, she has modeled for JCPenney, Paul Mitchell, Mary Kay, and local designers in Houston and Dallas. Gonzales says, "Every job is different which is so fun for me! It doesn't feel like work when you’re having fun doing it."

Defying Standards Like many little girls, Brianna Key grew up with a dream to participate in pageants and be in magazines. Although she did some modeling as a child, her career really started at age 12 after appearing in ads for Wimpy's Hamburgers in downtown Houston, and participating in music video pilots for the Disney Channel. She is a former Texans Cheerleader and has won Miss USA titles like Miss Texas Continental and has modeled for Sierra Pacific Bridal and Cane Island.

In her work, Key has been told that she is too short or not good enough to be a model. "Once I step outside that room, I have to realize who I am and be proud of who I am. I can't control what I look like, but I’ve come pretty far. I have defied standards," she says. "I’m good enough for myself, and that's what matters." At age 25, she now owns her own business, Key Designs, and takes modeling opportunities as they arise.

Born with a Talent At 9 months old, Kyrie McAlpin danced on top of the table when her great-grandmother played music and acted out songs she listened to. She says, "I was born with that natural talent. I love modeling, acting, and dancing." After attending Drama Kids Camp and taking acting and modeling classes with the Neal Hamil agency, Kyrie's career has taken off. Her credentials include Academy Sports and Outdoors weekly ads, a Nationwide Insurance commercial, and a Macy's showcase.

Five-year-old Kyrie's mom, Kadene says, "Be yourself and get as much training as possible. You can never have enough." Although Kyrie occasionally travels for gigs, including to California to play a young Mary in a Mary J. Blige music video, she and her family live in Katy for the amazing schools.

A Young Pro Unlike most toddlers, who often fight standing still for pictures, 3-year-old Cami Valverde loves having her picture taken. Her mother Patty says, "She sees a camera, and she starts posing, and she loves to look at the pictures to see how they came out after we are done." Cami started modeling clothes and headbands for small clothing shops at just 9 months old.

Her pictures have been printed in magazines like Semana News, Magnificent Magazine, Big City Kids, and Stylish Milk Magazine. She is also on Instagram for brands like Cherokee, Munchkin, and Igloo Coolers. Patty says, "She is so free-spirited, so I think her poses are always fun and different with a little bit of sass." KM

LACEY KUPFER WULF is a wife, mother of twin toddler boys, and a freelance writer.

Katy, TX (January 17, 2017) This year seven Katy ISD high school students earned the highest possible ACT composite score of 36. On average, less than .1 percent of all test takers earn the top score. Only 2,235 out of the nearly 2.1 million students who took the ACT in 2016 earned a composite score of 36.

"Your achievement on the ACT is significant and rare," says ACT Chief Executive Officer Marten Roorda, in a letter recognizing the students’ exceptional achievement. "While test scores are just one of multiple criteria that most colleges consider when making admission decisions, your exceptional ACT composite score should prove helpful as you pursue your education and career goals."

The following Katy ISD students earned a perfect score on the ACT:

Seven Lakes High School

Cinco Ranch High School

Taylor High School

The ACT consists of tests in English, mathematics, reading and science, each scored on a scale of 1-36. Exceptional scores of 36 provide colleges with evidence of student readiness for the academic rigors that lie ahead.

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Katy, TX (January 10, 2017) A Katy ISD student's dream of sending something into outer space has become an "out-of-this-world" reality when her artwork is selected by NASA's Commercial Crew Program to become a part of a space calendar.

Katy Junior High sixth-grader, Sylvie Mei Lim, competed against submissions from across the world. Yet her artistic masterpiece ended up winning the first spot in the Children's Artwork Calendar for the month of January 2017. Drawings from Spain, Romania, India, Portugal, London and now even Katy, TX, will be beamed into orbit for astronauts to enjoy during their stay in the International Space Station (ISS).

Katy Junior High sixth-grader, Drew Alvarez, was also selected for an Honorable Mention. The odds of two Katy ISD students being recognized and being the only two from Texas, is kind of "extra-terrestrial". Congratulations!

Click here to see Lim's drawing and full calendar.

Katy, TX (January 10, 2017) It's no secret that young children are full of natural energy, and it's often more difficult getting them to sit still than be active. But did you know that the amount of time children spend daily being physically active is decreasing? Despite children's active nature, it's still important for parents to encourage and support their physical development starting from birth. Research shows that children who develop basic motor skills through physical activity are more likely to become healthy, active adults, and there is increasing evidence that daily physical activity helps children perform better academically and avoid anxiety and depression in their teenage years.

"At Primrose Schools, we believe children's physical development is as important as their intellectual, creative and social-emotional growth," says Lou Ann McLaughlin, Franchise Owner of Primrose School of Woodcreek Reserve. "Through our exclusive Balanced Learning® approach, we’re able to help children build important physical skills as they’re developmentally ready through a combination of purposeful free play and meaningful, age-appropriate activities."

As part of the Balanced Learning approach, children at Primrose School engage in physical activity each day through the Thumbs Up!® program. Through Thumbs Up!, children practice proper techniques for movement, balance and motor skills through fun exercises like running, hopping, throwing, catching, bouncing and more. Thumbs Up! balances structured, teacher-guided games and skill development with free play, which helps children develop physically and psychologically. Studies show that children exert themselves more during free play and learn essential life skills like decision-making, problem-solving, creativity and self-control as they exercise their curiosity and explore their environment. Even infants develop physical coordination and build early motor skills through group play, games and exercise.

Thumbs Up! activities are brought to life by the Primrose School teaching staff, who participate in all activities and encourage children throughout the lessons. The Primrose approach to physical development also follows the highest professional standards and guidelines for developmentally appropriate practice developed by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) and the Council for Physical Education for Children (COPEC).

"Study after study shows us that developing healthy habits in young children leads to active, healthy adults," says Lou Ann McLaughlin. "By building the right foundation, all children can develop the fundamental physical skills needed for lifelong health. We love partnering with parents and working together to create excitement for physical activity in young children, because we know we are planting the seeds for a brighter future."

For more helpful parenting tips and information, visit our blog at www.PrimroseSchools.com/blog and sign up for the Pointers for Parents newsletter.

Katy, TX – January 6, 2017 Katy ISD is pleased to announce the establishment of an Athletic Hall of Honor to recognize the efforts and contributions of former student athletes, athletic teams, coaches and special merit individuals who have brought distinction, honor and excellence to themselves and to the District.

Nominations are now being accepted through March 15, 2017. Submissions will be reviewed by the Katy ISD Athletic Hall of Honor Honorary Board and voted on by the Katy ISD Athletic Hall of Honor Committee. Once submitted, a nominee's application will remain active for five years with the Honorary Board. Due to the sheer volume of alumni worthy of such an honor, nominations will be accepted annually.

The Hall of Honor Committee has already selected the following four state championship teams to be honored in the inaugural class of the Athletic Hall of Honor:

Individuals and state championship teams will be honored at a 2017 fall banquet and a Katy ISD football game. State championship teams will continue to be added to the Athletic Hall of Honor every year. For more information and access to the requirements and nomination form, click here.

Katy, TX – January 4, 2017 Katy ISD is one of 433 school districts in the United States and Canada being honored by the College Board with placement on the 7th Annual AP® District Honor Roll for increasing access to Advanced Placement (AP) course work while simultaneously maintaining or increasing the percentage of students earning scores of 3 or higher on AP Exams.

Since 2015, the number of Katy ISD students participating in AP exams increased by 16 percent, and the number of students receiving a 3 or higher increased by 11 percent.

To be included on the 7th Annual AP District Honor Roll, participating districts must:

For more information on the AP District Honor Roll, visit the College Board website.

Courtesy of Katy ISD Communications Department

Katy, TX – January 4, 2017 Students who have not received a high school diploma because they did not meet the passing standard on sections of the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) Exit Level will have the opportunity to retake the necessary subject area tests in March, 2017. The TEAMS and TAAS tests are no longer being offered; however, individuals eligible to take TEAMS or TAAS will take the appropriate part of the TAKS Exit Level English language arts and/or mathematics tests.

Students currently enrolled in school who need to retest are automatically registered; however, those who are out of school must register online by 5 p.m., February 10, 2017. Individuals will need to register online for the TAKS test by accessing the website at www.TexasAssessment.com/taksoos. The registration process will be online only. The online submission, beginning December 12, 2016, must be completed by 5 p.m., by February 10, 2017. Online registrations received after this date will not be processed. Test-takers can register at a participating campus on the day of testing, if the campus can accommodate them. All test-takers should arrive at the test site 30 minutes before the designated testing start time of 7:30 a.m. Test-takers must present picture identification (such as driver's license, DPS ID, military ID, school ID or resident alien card) to test.

The 2017 March TAKS tests will be administered online only on the following dates:

Katy ISD is offering the March Exit retesting at Miller Career and Technology Center located at 1734 Katyland Dr. For additional information, contact Dr. Christy Gregory in the Katy ISD Department of Research, Assessment and Accountability at 281-396-2128.

Courtesy of Katy ISD Department of Communications

Katy, TX – December 27, 2016 Deciding where to celebrate New Year's Eve can be stressful, but if you go to one of these amazing places, you can't go wrong. We have put together the best places to dine, stay, and ring in the new year with your family, a date, or group of friends.

PARTY AND STAY THE NIGHT

The Crystal Ballroom 909 Texas St., Houston Enjoy a night of dancing and a midnight crystal ball drop. There will be live music by Empire 6, a DJ, premium bars, and a breakfast buffet at 1 a.m. Visit crystalballnye.com.

Hotel Sorella – City Centre 800 Sorella Ct., Houston Check in at Hotel Sorella, enjoy live music, a balloon drop, and champagne at the Monnalisa bar. Roxy Roca will light up the night with a live performance. Call 713-973-1600 for New Year's Eve packages or visit hotelsorella-citycentre.com.

Hotel Zaza 5701 Main St., Houston Zaza-style fun from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Tickets are $75 and include entrance to the party, entertainment, and a champagne toast. Room packages are also available. Visit hotelzaza.com.

The Hyatt Regency Houston 1200 Louisiana St., Houston Have a blast at Houston's longest-running New Year's Eve party! With a giant balloon drop, a live DJ, and a champagne toast, you won't be disappointed. Visit houston.regency.hyatt.com.

Omni Houston Hotel 13210 Katy Fwy., Houston Four Riverway, Houston Join the Omni Houston Hotel for an unforgettable evening of dancing and bubbly to ring in 2017. This includes an overnight stay, champagne toast, balloon drop, party favors, photo booth, and DJ all just steps from your hotel room door. Call 713-871-8181.

EVENING OUT

Artisans Restaurant 3201 Louisiana St., Houston If you haven't tried the French cuisine at Artisan's, New Year's Eve is a great time to explore a new eatery. The restaurant offers reservations from 5 to 10 p.m. for $120 per person. Visit artisansrestaurant.com.

Club Amnesia 406 W. Grand Pkwy. S. Ring in the New year at Katy's new night club for their first New Year's bash! Visit amnesiakaty.com.

Fireworks Dinner Cruise Kemah Boardwalk, Kemah Cruise the night away on Clear Lake and Galveston Bay while enjoying fireworks, dining, and dancing. Visit boardwalkfantasea.com.

The H-Town Countdown Silver Street, 2000 Edwards St., Houston Complete with a New Year's Eve champagne toast, open premium bar, and a balloon drop, this event is one of the most anticipated in Houston. With two DJs from 104.1 KRBE, this party will be taken to a new level. Visit htownnye.com.

Perry's Steakhouse & Grille 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Perry's Steakhouse & Grille offers diners New Year's Eve entertainment and a set menu. Make a reservation for 5:30 p.m. and earlier for $59.95 per person. Any reservations after 5:30 p.m. are $79.95 per person. Visit perryssteakhouse.com.

Ray's Grill 8502 FM 359, Fulshear Enjoy fresh seafood, organic vegetables, and more dining options at this popular, unique neighborhood grill. Visit raysgrill.com.

Topgolf 1030 Memorial Brook Blvd., Houston Experience a night of neon featuring live entertainment, a chef-inspired menu, and plenty of music and dancing to ring in the New Year! General bay reservations are $225 and VIP bay reservations are $450. Visit topgolf.com.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY

New Year's Eve Historical Bash George Ranch Historical Park 10215 FM 762 Rd., Richmond Prepare for the countdown to 2017 with a historical mask-making and noisemaking craft. At noon, a countdown will be held at the 1830's Jones Stock Farm followed by a special New Year's Eve meal at 12:30 p.m. Visit georgeranch.org.

Rockin’ New Year's Noon Bash Children's Museum of Houston 1500 Binz St., Houston This is Houston's longest-running New Year's Eve celebration for kids. The bash rings in the New Year at noon with a parade and countdown to the shimmering ball drop. Visit cmhouston.org.

Sharkey's New Year's Eve Party The Downtown Aquarium 410 Bagby St., Houston Celebrate the new year with a buffet, balloon drop, contests, and giveaways for the kids. Reservations are required. Visit aquariumrestaurants.com.

Katy, TX – December 27, 2016 All are welcome to try the facilities at any YMCA in the Greater Houston area!

At the Y, they can help you design a wellness routine that promotes positive improvements in your health and wellness. Become a part of something that nourishes the soul, strengthens your muscles, and keeps you motivated.

Members say that they feel like part of a family at the Y, and that sense of support keeps them motivated, holds them accountable and helps them attain their goals without giving up. From the greeter at the front desk who knows your name, to fellow exercisers in the locker room who make sure you won't miss a workout, to a friend on the treadmill keeping you company as you burn calories, the Y is a place that makes working out fun.

What's more, research from the Journal of Preventative Medicine and the Journal of Behavioral Medicine suggests that a support system helps people better adhere to their workout goals.

This is a one-day event on January 7th, and you are not going to want to miss it!

Katy, TX – December 22, 2016 Internationally ranked professional golfer Patrick Reed stopped by Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital with his wife, Justine, to deliver special treats for pediatric patients who are hospitalized during the holidays.

The Reeds graciously donated dozens of toys, games, coloring books and infant rattles, delivering the gifts in an oversized Santa bag much to the delight of the boys and girls at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital.

The presents provided a welcome distraction for the children and their families, helping brighten their days during a difficult time and bringing a taste of the season to the patients who are unable to go home.

The Reeds partnered with the hospital in an effort to give back to the community that has embraced them. Patrick Reed, who is ranked eighth in the world and was a member of the 2016 Ryder Cup championship team, has established his home in Houston with his wife and young daughter.

"We are so grateful for their thoughtful gesture which brought joy and cheer to the children across our hospital," said Susan Distefano, Senior Vice President and CEO of Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital. "This time of year can be a struggle for families in the hospital, but kind acts like this help restore a little magic back into their holidays."

Katy, TX – December 22, 2016 Fourth graders at Griffin Elementary gave the gift of warmth, and advice, to newborns and their mothers at Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital. The students knitted caps for the newborns and wrote letters to the parents, offering "words of wisdom". It's a part of their "Caps for Cubs" program. Women who give birth at Memorial Hermann Katy will have the opportunity to take home the caps and letters over the next few weeks.

Katy, TX – December 16, 2016 From Jeff Stocks, Principal of Taylor High School:

Katy, TX – December 12, 2016 Children who bite others cause a great deal of concern for the parents. The parents of the child who has been bitten are also usually very concerned about infection. Biting is an unacceptable behavior that needs to be stopped at an early age to prevent it from happening again.

Why young children bite

Biting is fairly common in young children, and it is often worrisome to adults. A family member, playmate, or classmate at daycare or preschool may be the one bitten. Biting can be painful and frightening when it happens. It upsets other children and often angers teachers and other adults.

Biting is usually caused by 1 of 4 different factors, including the following:

Experimental biting

Experimental biting is done by infants and toddlers as they explore their world. They put everything in their mouths and sometimes bite in the process. You can help decrease biting by telling them, "No—biting hurts!" and being firm. Offer them things that they can safely bite on such as teething rings.

Frustration biting

Frustration biting happens when young children become frustrated and unable to cope with a situation. Until they learn how to play cooperatively, they may respond to the demands of other children by hitting or biting. Some helpful guidelines for decreasing this type of biting include:

Powerless biting

Powerless biting happens when a child is in need of feeling powerful. Sometimes, the youngest child in the family uses biting to gain power. To help prevent this type of biting:

Stressful biting

Stressful biting is done when a child is under a lot of emotional stress. Biting may be a sign of distress or pain when the child is upset or angry. If this occurs:

If your child bites, respond firmly, but calmly, to the biting. Let your child know that you disapprove and remove him or her from the situation. Help your child learn new ways to handle things. If your child bites repeatedly, be sure to talk with your child's healthcare provider about the problem.

What do I do if my child is biting others?

While every child is different, the following are some recommendations that may be used to help with the child who bites:

Katy, TX – December 16, 2016 It's the season of giving and Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center (TMC) is getting in the spirit by unveiling a new installment in the Rick Smith Gallery entitled The Ultimate Gift. The latest installation highlights the importance of organ donation through the portraits of organ donors, donor families and recipients. Gratitude, sacrifice and hope can be seen in the eyes, smiles and embraces of those photographed, who all share one thing in common: their lives have been forever changed by the ultimate gift – the gift of life.

The Ultimate Gift was a deeply personal project for all those involved, including local photographer Troy Fields who captured all of the moving images for the gallery. Fields’ 7-year-old daughter, Abby, will likely need a lifesaving liver transplant in the future. A self-portrait of Fields with his daughter is featured in the installation.

"When I was 10 years old, I was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis, which required a liver transplant," said Tyree Hunter, who is also featured in the gallery. "Now, 20 years later, I work as a surgical technologist assisting with transplants here at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center. It really has come full circle. I hope that people are able to see these photos and realize the importance of organ donation, and how it has an effect on the lives of so many different people."

The Rick Smith Gallery, which was funded through employee contributions to the annual employee campaign several years ago, was created in memory of Rick Smith, the late director of Chaplaincy Services at Memorial Hermann-TMC who understood the importance of healing the body, mind and soul. Located near the main lobby of Memorial Hermann-TMC in the Hermann atrium, it is open to all employees, patients and visitors, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

This is the gallery's ninth installment since it opened in 2012. Previous exhibitions have featured a tribute to the late Dr. James H. "Red" Duke, Jr.; paintings, photographs, mixed media and sculptures by physicians and hospital employees; professional photographic images of the Campus’ beloved therapy pets; hand-drawn portraits of caregivers by pediatric patients; Holocaust Museum Houston's Butterfly Project; and a history of Memorial Hermann Life Flight®.

Watch the behind-the-scenes video that takes a look at how the project came together, and sign up to become an organ donor today.

The publishers of Katy Magazine honored 10 extraordinary citizens at the Katy Area Economic Development Council's general assembly meeting

Katy, TX December 13, 2016—Today, Katy Magazine officially announced their People of the Year award winners at the Katy Area Economic Development Council General Assembly meeting held at the Education Support Complex. Ten outstanding Katy area residents were presented with awards in front of a large audience of business and community leaders at the Katy Area Economic Development Council's monthly assembly meeting. The 10 honorees are also featured in the Dec/Jan issue of Katy Magazine and will be showcased in their upcoming Katy Business Magazine launching in early 2017.

This list of honorees includes Katy area residents from all walks of life– extraordinary educators, volunteers, heroes, and community leaders across Katy. The oldest honoree is 93-year-old Avadele Short, an active volunteer who's logged more than 10,000 hours serving at Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital. The youngest honoree is Nolan Stilwell, age 27, a beloved Katy entrepreneur who thrives despite having Down syndrome. One honoree, Stan Stanley, was named posthumously, for his dedicated service and humanitarianism in Katy.

The 2016 Katy People of the Year Honorees are as follows:

"We couldn't be more honored to celebrate these extraordinary citizens who are definitely making Katy a better place for all of us," says Publisher Katrina Katsarelis. "Each honoree exemplifies the loving, caring spirt of Katy, Texas."

Last year's 2015 Katy People of the Year recipients included: Da’dra Greathouse, singer, songwriter, musician, and speaker; Rebekah Gregory, Boston Marathon bombing survivor; Andy Dalton, NFL quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals; Christina Dismuke, 2016 TASA Region IV Elementary Teacher of the Year; Alton Frailey, former Superintendent of Katy ISD; Coach Gary Joseph, head coach for the Katy Tigers; Shari Nightingale, founder of Lindsay's Light; Mayor Fabol Hughes, elected mayor in 2013 and reelected in 2015.

CONTACT: Katrina Katsarelis, Editor-in-Chief & Publisher Katy Magazine 281.579.9840 [email protected]

Katy, TX – December 8, 2016

Michael Guevara, Co-Founder and Co-Owner of The Conservatory of Music at Cinco Ranch and North Katy, has recently been named as one of America's PremierExperts® in recognition of his knowledge and passion in music.

Michael Guevara has recently been acknowledged by America's PremierExperts® as one of the leading experts in his field. America's PremiereExperts® recognizes leading experts, across a wide array of industries, who are willing to provide information and education to consumers as a public service.

Michael is a composer, musician, speaker and business mentor. He is a founding member of the Katy Jazz Association and member of the Katy Jazz Festival Committee. In 1986 he received his Bachelors of Business Administration in Finance, and he moved to Houston to begin his career in insurance. Throughout the years he taught children to play the piano when his scheduled allowed. In 2006 Michael and his wife, Berta, opened their first school of music, The Conservatory of Music at Cinco Ranch, which is inclusive of being the only founding school of Carnegie Hall Royal Conservatory Achievement Program in the greater Houston area. The Conservatory of Music currently teaches more than 25,000 lessons a year and was recently named as "The Best Music Studio / Lessons in Katy for 2016."

Katy, TX – December 7, 2016

Cox Media Group Houston stations – including The Eagle (106.9 and 107.5), Country Legends (97.1) and The New 93Q (92.9) – hosted a two-day live event at Texas Children's Hospital in December which helped raise more than $655,00. These critical funds will help benefit patient care, education and research at Texas Children's Cancer Center, the building of a new pediatric tower in the medical center for the most critically ill children, and the opening of a community hospital in North Houston – Texas Children's Hospital The Woodlands.

Katy, TX – December 7, 2016

Patients at Memorial Hermann Cancer Center-Texas Medical Center now have access to hands-on music therapy thanks to a multiple guitar donation from Joan Holst and Michael Fuller, of Fuller's Guitar, a guitar store located in Houston's Greater Heights. Fuller and Holst were inspired to make the donation by their friend, Paul Jardell, who is currently undergoing cancer treatment at the Center. The guitars will be available as a musical diversion for patients to play while they receive treatment. They will also be used by the Center's music therapy support group.

"It's important to me that the patients are engaged in the music, not just by listening, but by participating," said Maegan Morrow, music therapist with TIRR Memorial Hermann, who also dedicates some of her time to Memorial Hermann Cancer Center-TMC. "By picking up a guitar during long treatments, it can be a distraction that puts the brain in a more positive state. Some patients might already know how to play guitar, but now we have the resources if someone wants to learn as well. We are so grateful to Fuller's Guitar for their generous gift."

Katy, TX – December 7, 2016 A recent survey found that Americans plan to spend more than half of their total holiday budget on non-gift items like holiday decor, entertaining and gifts for themselves. While incorporating these expenses into your holiday spending plan is smart, it's easy to overspend in these areas and break your budget while wrapping up the rest of your gift list.

Fine-tune your holiday spending by avoiding these common gotchas and start the new year without a massive credit card bill.

1. Self gifting. According to the National Retail Foundation, nearly six in 10 Americans plan to buy gifts for themselves, spending around $140, up 4% from last year and marking the second-highest level of personal spending in the survey's 13-year history. If you get in the habit of buying a gift for yourself every time you pick one up for a loved one, you’re going to find yourself over budget and in debt. When you find yourself reaching for an impulse self gift, give yourself 24 hours to consider the purchase. Chances are the urge to buy that unnecessary present will pass and you’ll save yourself big bucks. Alternatively, you can add the item to your wish list and help a loved one with their holiday shopping!

2. Indulging in decor. Many consumers get swept up in the holiday spirit and indulge in new decor to deck their halls. If you already have bins full of lights, ornaments, garland and other holiday tchotchkes, don't buy more before Christmas. Wait until Dec. 25 passes to pick up a few new decor pieces for next year when you can expect to save over 70% in most cases.

3. Missing out on savings. The holiday season is filled with promotions of all kinds and if you don't know where to find the best deals, you could miss out on major savings. Sign up for retailer newsletters to get coupons and learn about upcoming sales events. Create a new email so you don't get bombarded with such offers though! Use money-saving apps like Coupon Sherpa to get coupons right to your phone or check their online database for offers from popular retailers such as 20% off with a JCPenney coupon. Lastly, it's important to track price drops with MyAlerts.com so you know when to request a price adjustment on any gifts that you buy that go on sale shortly afterwards.

4. Spending more to save more. A popular promotion offered during the holidays, the "buy more, save more" deal often compels shoppers into spending more money than they planned. Such tiered offers as $25 off $75 or $50 off $150 are designed to make you think you’re getting a better value when you spend more, but you actually save the same percentage in most cases. Instead, spend what you planned and enjoy whatever savings you receive as a result. And whenever you see that slogan, remind yourself that when you buy more, you spend more!

5. Opening a new store card. An additional 10 to 20% off your purchase tempts many shoppers into opening a new store card, especially during the holiday season. However, this savings strategy is anything but smart; store cards carry low credit limits and high interest rates which can prove dangerous to your credit score if not carefully managed. Plus, you’re likely to buy more during that transaction to benefit from the limited deal. Unless you shop with the store frequently and can commit to paying off balances in full each month, it's best to avoid these cards. While paying with cash is the best strategy to stay on budget, sticking to one credit card that provides cash back or miles and earn rewards faster is another good option.

6. Overstocking stockings. Most shoppers don't budget for stocking stuffers as they do regular presents that go under the tree, yet these small gifts can put a dent into your spending. Make a plan of how much money you will spend per stocking for your family members and don't waste your money buying junk just to fill it! To keep your budget in check, consider making little gifts to fill out stockings. You can make a small ornament with a favorite picture or bake a few small treats to supplement the gifts you purchase.

7. Picking up extra gifts at checkout. Checkout aisles are stocked with all sorts of impulse buys because retailers know shoppers can't resist festive fuzzy socks, coffee mugs and scented candles. While they’re cheap, these small purchases of $1 here and $5 there can add up quickly and eat into your budget. Distract yourself when checking out at any store by reviewing your haul for unnecessary impulse buys, updating your gift list or checking in with your shopping budget to ensure you’re still on track.

8. Buying more to get free shipping. While free shipping is a popular promotion, more online retailers are requiring minimum order thresholds of $50, $75 or even over $100 before free delivery kicks in. Spending more to qualify for free shipping means it's not free. Look for free site-to-store pick-up options or sign up for a free 30-day trial at ShopRunner for free, two-day shipping from hundreds of popular stores like Eddie Bauer, Express and Lord and Taylor. Otherwise, wait for Free Shipping Day on December 16 when hundreds of retailers waive minimum order requirements, offer extra discounts and guaranteed delivery by Christmas Eve.

9. Racking up debt to pay for gifts. A new survey conducted by MagnifyMoney found that more than one in four Americans plan to rack up holiday debt and many of those shoppers expect they will take three months or more to pay it off. Accepting that you’ll go into the debt for the holidays is a dangerous kind of complacence and something that shouldn't be taken so lightly! Instead, determine what you can afford and boost your budget by shopping the sales, using coupons, stocking up on discount gift cards, re-gifting gently-used products or even selling items for extra cash.

Katy, TX – November 23, 2016 Katy Aquatics received a special appearance from Olympic gold medalist Anthony Ervin earlier this month on Tuesday, November 15th at the Katy High School Natatorium. Ervin's visit was part of an outreach effort presented by the USA Swimming Athlete Partnership Program to encourage young swimmers to lead champion lifestyles and stay physically active. These appearances directly promote the sport and the healthy lifestyle it represents.

Anthony brought his Olympic gold medal from Rio to share with the kids and inspire them to continue and persevere in the sport of swimming. Ervin was able to speak to our Age Group swimmers and share his journey from learning how to swim, to becoming an Olympic athlete. He spoke about his struggles, successes and how he used both to make his come-back during the 2016 Olympics in Rio. Anthony did a great job speaking to our athletes on their level and relating to them through his own experiences in the sport. Anthony captivated both our athletes and their families in a very motivational speech and concluded the evening with group photo sessions.

All of the Katy Aquatics swimmers and parents thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to meet Anthony on a personal level and would like to extend a heart-felt Thank You to USA Swimming for creating an awe-inspiring visit with our team. This event was a special memory for our athletes to share with one another for years to come! This was truly an exciting day for our entire club, and we wish you all the best in your future career Anthony! Katy Aquatics has professional coaches on our competitive and non-competitive staff who provide challenging and innovative training to support the development of each individual swimmer. We offer instruction for swimmers of all ages and abilities, as well as host Water Safety events in our local Katy area throughout the year.

Katy, TX (November 22, 2016) According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), more people die every year from lung cancer than of breast, colon and prostate cancers combined. November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month and physicians affiliated with Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital are encouraging people to be screened for lung cancer.

"Current and former smokers are at a higher risk for having lung cancer. Unfortunately, those who grew up around smokers are also at a higher risk for developing lung cancer. As with all cancers, early detection is key to fighting the disease successfully," says Qi-Ming Zhu, D.O., a pulmonary and critical care specialist affiliated with Memorial Hermann Katy.

The ACS recommends the following guidelines for lung cancer screening:

"People often ask why the screening is done on people with no signs of lung cancer. Often, issues like coughing, wheezing, and chest pain will prompt a person to have the condition evaluated by a physician, who may recommend other tests. For those without symptoms, a low-dose CT scan is a good way to detect lung cancer before they start showing symptoms," added Dr. Zhu.

A low-dose CT (LDCT) scan provides more detailed pictures than a chest x-ray and uses a lower amount of radiation than a standard chest CT. It does not require the use of intravenous contrast dye.

"People should also be aware that a low-dose CT scan may also find other abnormalities in the body that may need to be checked out, but may not be cancer. Do your research and make sure the facility and physicians have experience in lung cancer screening and that they follow the recommendations from the American Cancer Society," says Dr. Zhu.

Several Memorial Hermann facilities, including Memorial Hermann Katy, offer low-dose CT scans for patients who fit the necessary criteria and have an order from a referring physician. You can learn more about the screening here.

Katy, TX – November 22, 2016 Special Pals is taking pre-orders for their 2017 Red White & Rescue Calendar, a project helping to fundraise for the shelter.

The Red White & Rescue Calendar is a collaboration between first responders and Special Pals. The calendar features first responders from the Katy, West Houston, Richmond, Rosenberg, and Fulshear areas along with their own adopted dogs, or adoptable dogs from Special Pals.

"Our goal for this calendar is to help raise funds and awareness for the shelter," said Melissa Houser, President of Special Pals. "We also want to recognize local first responders who protect our communities every day. They work hard to save human lives while we work hard to save animal lives."

Eight local agencies are represented in the 2017 Red White & Rescue Calendar: Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office, Katy ISD Police Department, Fort Bend EMS, Katy Fire Department, Richmond Police Department, Fulshear Police Department, Harris Country Sheriff's Office, and Fulshear/Simonton Fire Department. Photography was arranged and provided free of charge by Sandy Flint of Flint Photography.

Among the first responders and animals featured are Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy E. Nehls and his dog Archer. Nehls gained international acclaim after he—along with volunteers and KPRC television reporter Phil Archer—rescued a dog tied to a porch from rising flood waters in Fort Bend County. The rescue was caught on video and viewed millions of times all over the world. A few weeks after the rescue, Archer (named after Phil Acher) was adopted by Nehls and his family.

All funds generated from calendar sales will support operations at Special Pals and provide care for the animals currently living at the shelter. "After daily care, medical care, and ‘room and board’ it costs nearly $10 per day to provide care for an adoptable animal at the shelter," says Elizabeth Trick, Executive Director of Special Pals. "Purchasing this calendar will help us continue to care for the dogs and cats waiting to be adopted, and ensure we can continue to save more animals in 2017."

The Red White & Rescue Calendar is currently in production and will begin shipping during the week of Thanksgiving. Calendars may be purchased online for $24.99 including tax and shipping, or in person at Special Pals for $20.00 including tax.

To pre-order a copy of the 2017 Red White & Rescue Calendar, and for profiles of the first responders featured in the calendar, visit www.redwhiteandrescue.com.

Special Pals website: http://www.specialpalsshelter.org/

Special Pals Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/SpecialPalsShelter

Red White & Rescue Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/RedWhiteRescue/

About Special Pals: Special Pals is Houston's longest running no-kill animal shelter. As a non-profit 501(c)3 organization our mission is to make the world a better place for healthy cats and dogs by providing temporary shelter and health care, an alternative to euthanasia, adoptive homes and education to the community about the responsibilities of pet ownership and the importance of spaying and neutering. We offer adoption services, boarding, low-cost wellness clinics and low-cost spaying and neutering.

Katy, TX – November 22, 2016 Over the past few weeks, Katy ISD hosted dedication ceremonies for two of their newest schools, MayDell Jenks Elementary and Catherine Bethke Elementary. The Katy community, Board of Trustees, Fort Bend County officials, and the namesakes themselves, MayDell Krivacka Jenks, and Catherine Gigi Bethke, were all in attendance.

These new schools were designed and built as a result of the district's $748 million bond referendum approved by voters in November of 2014. VLK Architects was hired by Katy ISD to work in collaboration with the district and the community to create a new two-story elementary school prototype with Bethke and Jenks as the first schools to open. The hope with these new schools is to inspire students and engage different learning styles through the availability of collaborative and flexible spaces. In addition, these new facilities were constructed to address and accommodate Katy ISD's increasing student population.

"I could not be more proud to have this opportunity to open a new state-of-the-art facility," said Katy ISD Superintendent, Dr. Lance Hindt. "I am in awe to see the student adaptability and creativity as they develop individual modes of learning and collaboration through the use of flexible spaces."

At the Jenks Elementary School Dedication Ceremony, Principal Troy Kemp spoke about how humbling it is to be a part of and represent Jenks in his role as principal. "This week the ‘Book of Awesome’ showed up in my mailbox," said Kemp. "It is a book filled with pages of the little things in life that can turn an ordinary day into something very special. While opening a new school is by no means a little thing, I have to say it is awesome! It's awesome in the traditional sense that it is something to be enjoyed, revered, and respected. It is also awesome because of the children and the families that I have gotten to know by being a part of this school."

Mike Schofield, Texas House of Representatives, District 132 attended the Bethke Dedication Ceremony and spoke about how valuable it is to attend a new school and have the opportunity to pass wisdom down to descendants. "Fifty years from now, when some of the students who attend Bethke Elementary are retiring and happen to be driving by with their grandchildren, they will tell them ‘this is where I went to school. This is where I learned the lessons that I passed on to your parents, and they passed on to you," said Schofield. "I can't think of a higher calling or a better use for a piece of land than to be the place where that happens."

Katy ISD's Board of Trustees President, Rebecca Fox spoke at both dedication ceremonies and mentioned how much she enjoys seeing new campuses open within her own community. "There are no words that explain what a privilege and honor it is to represent you on Katy ISD's School Board," said Fox. "We are just so grateful that we get to be a part of a community that values education. You all have been supportive of us as we continue to grow and make more opportunities for our students to learn."

These projects have been a two-year journey to completion which was a success that greatly benefited from the cooperation of the district, bringing these campuses to life.

"I just want to say thank you to the Katy ISD community for the opportunity to design learning spaces that will be used by your next generation of learners," said Todd Lien, VLK Principal. "It was truly a collaborative effort and we could not be more grateful."

Katy, TX – November 21, 2016 Chick-fil-A®, Inc. has selected Katy resident Avery Fontenot as a recipient of the chain's $1,000 Leadership Scholarship, making her the 100th nominee of Chick-fil-A Operator, Rusty Wylie, to receive the award.

Wylie commented, "Avery is a fantastic young leader. She exemplifies everything we love to see in young people—a servant's heart, work ethic, and great attitude. I am so proud of Avery. She's worked extremely hard since she started, and this scholarship is only the beginning of great things in her future." Currently an assistant manager at Chick-fil-A Mason Road, Fontenot graduated from Taylor High School and is now a freshman at Lone Star College in Houston. She plans to transfer to University of Houston in the fall to study Hotel and Restaurant management. She has been actively involved in Best Buddies, Future Farmers of America (FFA), youth group, and worked as an Athletic Trainer. Avery said, "I love the energetic atmosphere at Chick-fil-A, the friends I have made, and the opportunities for growth. I want to be an entrepreneur someday and maybe even a Chick-fil-A franchisee. This is a great place to start!"

As Wylie stood with scholarship recipients Luis Gomez, Avery Fontenot, and Stefany Gonzalez he said, "We have been blessed since 1995 to be located here in Katy where there is a real sense of community, family, and a great school district. As for the 100 scholarship recipients, those 100 represent the very best of our team members…those hard working kids who grew up with us and are now teachers, nurses, engineers, pastors, and business owners."

Chick-fil-A, Inc. began awarding scholarships to Team Members in 1973 based on founder S. Truett Cathy's desire to incentivize Team Members to further their education. Since then, nearly 36,000 Team Members have received scholarships, bringing the total amount to nearly $36 million applied at more than 3,000 schools nationwide. In addition to the $1,000 scholarships available, the enhanced educational assistance initiative, called Remarkable Futures, increases the amount of scholarships awarded. in 2017, 1,850 students will have an opportunity to receive a $2,500 scholarship, with the ability to re-apply for up to four years – for a potential total of up to $10,000 for college while serving as Chick-fil-A team member. Plus, a new opportunity will exist for 12 students to receive an individual, one-time award of up to $25,000.

Katy, TX – November 17, 2016

Taylor FFA started the Ag Olympics for all the Katy ISD high school FFA students back in 2010 when they had just a handful of students participate. This year the event has grown to 355 FFA students from all 7 Katy high schools competing against each other in fun Ag related games, hence calling Ag Olympics. The teams are made up of students from each school and compete for points at each of the 10 different games.

The games range from Greasy Pumpkin Relay and Ice-Bucket Musical Chairs to Balloon Stomp and Tire Flipping Relay! And the Grand-finally is boys and girls from each school competing in the Tug-O-War into the mud! Cinco Ranch got 1st place betting 2nd place Taylor by only 1/2 a point and Seven Lakes won 3rd place. This is a great event for all of the Katy FFA Students to get to know each other and have a friendly completion with lots of laughing and getting dirty!

Katy, TX – November 16, 2016 The West Houston community is invited to join Houston Methodist West surgeons and the Girl Scouts for a hands-on demonstration of the new da Vinci Xi surgical robot on Monday, Nov. 21 at 4 p.m. in the Houston Methodist West Sky Plaza. Houston Methodist West is the only facility in the Energy Corridor to acquire this latest piece of surgical technology.

During this one-hour event, we will explain the background of the da Vinci Xi robot and the impact it will have on minimally invasive surgeries. Attendees will then have a chance to use the robot to complete simple tasks, followed by a group Q&A.

"There is a constant transformation in technology surrounding surgery," said Wayne Voss, chief executive officer of Houston Methodist West. "The da Vinci Xi is a great example of how we are committed to leading medicine in the West Houston and surrounding communities by providing the tools our surgeons need to deliver unparalleled safety, quality, growth and innovation."

Robotic-assisted surgery is a minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery that uses a robotic interface to control surgical instruments. With this specially designed system, the surgeon gets a magnified, three-dimensional view of the surgical area and is able to maneuver instruments more precisely during complex and delicate procedures.

At Houston Methodist West, our specially trained and credentialed surgeons are leaders in robotic surgery. Since its introduction a few years ago, robotic surgery has been used in thousands of procedures, proving its safety and effectiveness. Patients benefit from the least invasive, safest surgical treatment for even the most complex conditions. Compared to open surgery, robotic-assisted surgery results in less trauma to the body, less risk of infection, less blood loss and need for blood transfusions, significantly less pain and scarring, shorter hospital stay, and faster recovery and return to normal activities.

Please RSVP at events.houstonmethodist.org/DaVinciXi to try your hand at the new da Vinci Xi surgical robot.

Katy, TX – November 16, 2016

The 41,000 square-foot YMCA at Katy Main Street will feature strength training and cardio equipment, group exercise rooms, a basketball gym, an outdoor heated swimming pool, child watch rooms, cycle studio and gathering areas where members can meet for coffee. It will offer health and wellness activities, aquatics, youth sports, afterschool care, summer day camp, summer sports clinics, teen programs, senior activities and more.

"A lot of thought went into the design of this new facility. We’ve used best practice concepts from Ys across the country," said Brian Haines, district executive director at the YMCA of Greater Houston. "We hope many people will take advantage of the new membership incentive so they can gain access to both Ys in Katy as well as in the Greater Houston area."

The $12 million center is expected to accommodate the growing population of Katy, serving residents in west and north Katy and in neighboring communities.

The YMCA at Katy Main Street is expected to receive more than 400,000 visits a year. It will provide approximately $250,000 in community assistance and program/membership scholarships and create more than 200 area jobs.

Katy, TX – November 14, 2016

Inspiring athlete and amputee, Artis Thompson III, is a winning example of dedication on NBC's American Ninja Warrior

Artis Thompson III, whose goal is to be the next American Ninja Warrior, stretched his physical and mental strength to the limit and inspired amputees and others all over the world. He competed on the NBC reality TV show and says he will be going back for more. This powerful Katyite demonstrated that no obstacle is too great.

Thompson, who is also a personal trainer at 24 Hour Fitness in Katy, accepts no excuses from his clients, or himself. He boxes and plays semi -professional football with the Fort Bend Storm. Like many athletes, he spends hours in training, sprinting, doing calisthenics, and working on his upper body strength, all with a prosthetic leg.

A Devastating Loss He lost the lower part of his le leg in a motorcycle accident in 2012, just three years after his brother died in a motorcycle accident. "I lost my leg, but I didn't lose my life," says Thompson, who refuses to allow his physical challenge to slow him down. "You have to keep on going, push through, and live life."

Determined to Succeed Thompson said his biggest challenge was not losing his leg, but blocking out negativity from others. He was motivated by his aunt and some of his clients to audition for the show. "When I first started, there were a lot of people who said I couldn't do it or that I shouldn't do it. But it's all about me, how committed I am, and how hard I want to work," says Thompson.

American Ninja Warrior is a sports entertainment competition that challenges contestants with grueling obstacle courses designed to test their strength, balance, and endurance. Contenders compete in log runs, wall climbs, and spider crawls. They leap from platform to platform, swing from great heights, and propel their bodies over barricades. In the history of the show only a few have successfully completed the course.

One in a Million Participants are required to submit a video displaying their athletic ability and desire to win. "Having one leg is a great story, but I had to show them in my audition tape that I could still climb the treacherous Warped Wall. I had to demonstrate that I’m able to do everything in the show," says Thompson. In season seven, Thompson succeeded in making it to the third obstacle. One year later, in season eight, he made it as far as the fourth obstacle when he fell into the water during a log run. "They were amazed and said no other amputee who's gone on the show has been a true athlete. I was the first amputee they really thought had a chance to win."

Playing to Win  Thompson's goal was to make it to the finals, and despite his motivating achievement, he is disappointed in his performance. "I went on the show to win. Anything short of this success in my eyes is a failure," says Thompson. "My plans for the future are to keep training, go back into it stronger, and never give up until I complete it." In the eyes of his fans, however; he is nothing less than a winner. "People from all over the world have reached out to me to say they’re inspired by what I’ve done," says Thompson. "I’ve had amputees tell me they’re motivated to start working out. They’re motivated to do something with their lives." In the spirit of a true warrior, Thompson plans to keep hurdling over every obstacle that comes his way. "You never know what's going to happen next, so make the most of every day. My advice to others is to live life for yourself, reach forward to your goals, and never give up." KM

Sneak away from the hustle and bustle and re-energize at these countryside getaways.

Canyon Lakeview Resort 872 Ledgerock Dr. | Canyon Lake, TX canyonlakeviewresort.com Choose from cathedral cabins with panoramic views of Canyon Lake from every deck or lodge suites while staying at Canyon Lakeview Resort. Accommodations are equipped with deck tables, chairs, and BBQ grills for you to enjoy all the lake has to offer. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to add to their itinerary with guided tours, rafting, tubing, hike and bike trails, as well as visits to the local winery. If you feel like taking the whole crew out for some fun in the sun, stop by one of several boat rentals and pick your vessel for the day, or your entire trip.

Flying L Ranch 566 Flying L Dr. | Bandera, TX flyingl.com Slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, obstacle course – and that's just in Lone Star Lagoon. You’ll have more than enough to keep you busy. In addition to the waterpark, Flying L has tennis courts, basketball, volleyball, horseshoe pits, shuffleboard, playgrounds, hiking trails, fishing, western magic shows, s’mores roasts, sing-a-longs, and more. They also have an award-winning, 18-hole championship golf course on site. If you want to venture out, zip lining, Los Maples, Bear Springs Nature Preserve, Enchanted Springs Ranch, and Hill Country Wineries are all under an hour away.

Gruene Mansion Inn 1275 Gruene Rd. | New Braunfels, TX gruenemansioninn.com Nestled on the Guadalupe River, Gruene Mansion Inn reflects Victorian rustic elegance. e rooms lend to the ambiance with names like hayloft, reside lodge, river tree lodge, and Sunday haus. From private cottages to rooms overlooking the iconic Gristmill, guests will appreciate the authentic atmosphere coupled with luxury accommodations. Located in the heart of downtown Gruene, mansion guests have access to shopping, restaurants, dancing, and Rockin’ R River Rides which is open seasonally. Heading up there for a special weekend? Have a surprise basket of goodies delivered to your room.

Hoffman Haus 608 East Creek St. | Fredericksburg, TX hoffmanhaus.com Whether you choose stay in the Ivy with its French doors leading out to a private covered porch to enjoy your morning coffee, or the Evening Star which resembles an 1840s log cabin complete with an overstuffed sofa and limestone replace, you’ll be cradled in comfort at Hofman Haus. A complimentary breakfast is delivered to your room via picnic basket featuring such culinary treats as mushroom quiche, white chocolate and cranberry scones, sweet potato waffles, and lemon-blueberry muffins. Not sure of what to do while you’re there? Don't worry. Hoffman Haus provides suggested itineraries for the historic, active, shopaholic, and romantic traveler.

Horseshoe Bay Resort 200 Hi Cir. N. | Horseshoe Bay, TX hsbresort.com Any resort with its own mascot is bound to offer a great time, and Horseshoe Bay Resort has Manny the Macaw who interacts with guests every day and loves to have his photo taken. In the Bay's Whitewater activity center, you will find bicycles, Razor scooters, recreation equipment, arts and crafts, and even a snack bar which also serves adult beverages for parents. Don't miss out on a variety of lake and marina activities including kayaking, paddle boarding, or going out on a pontoon boat. If relaxation is what you’re looking for, the resort offers a full-service spa and salon where you can schedule treatments, relax in the eucalyptus infused steam rooms, or soak in the whirlpool.

Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort 9800 Hyatt Resort Dr. | San Antonio, TX hillcountry.regency.hyatt.com

Tucked away on 300 acres of a family ranch, the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort offers resort-style luxury with a countryside backdrop. Float down the lazy river, rock on the porch, tee off on the 27-hole golf course, join a game of water volleyball, lounge at a poolside cabana, or even rush down the 22-foot water slide. Located just miles from SeaWorld San Antonio, Fiesta Texas, Pearl Street, and the San Antonio River Walk, there are plenty of tourist attractions for you to visit as well.

Log Country Cove 617 Log Country Cove | Burnet, TX logcountrycove.com From the intimate Maegan Breann, also known as the honeymoon cabin, to Belle Oaks which sleeps up to 14 people, Log Country Cove can make room for your caravan. Some of the larger cabins also feature in-house entertainment including foosball tables, horseshoes, poker tables, swing sets – not to mention great views of the Colorado River. If you are looking for a family retreat, Big Timber Lodge makes a statement and sleeps up to 35 people. In addition to a party room, outside decks, and surround sound outdoors, this cabin also boasts grills, a gourmet kitchen, at screen TVs, paddle boards, and canoes to keep you entertained.

Rough Creek Lodge & Resort 5165 County Rd. 2013 | Glen Rose, TX roughcreek.com Imagine stepping out from your cabin and watching deer grazing in the nearby trees. That's the scenic atmosphere at Rough Creek Lodge & Resort. Guests can stay in the main lodge, cabins, or even vacation rental homes. Stop by the petting corral to visit miniature goats, horses, and rabbits, or feed your adventurous side with zip lining and rock climbing. If lounging is more your thing, relax poolside, fly a kite, take a hayride, or book some time at the spa. Don't forget that there are several museums, parks, live music, and Dinosaur Valley nearby.

Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort 1 Resort Way | Boerne, TX tapatioresort.com Resort amenities include golf, a spa, dining, and live music events on site. Guests looking for a unique experience can book the George Strait suite. With a private entry near the golf course, living room and entertainment area, a wet bar, hill country views, and George Strait memorabilia, it's truly suited for an ultimate getaway. For the adventure junkie, try adding hunting, fishing, or playing at Joshua Creek Ranch to your itinerary. If it's romance you’re after, saddle up for an equestrian ride, taste regional wines, indulge in a couple's massage, or book some time at the salt cave.

Travaasa Austin 13500 FM Rd. 2769 | Austin, TX travaasa.com/austin As soon as you arrive at Travaasa Austin you are encircled by cypress trees, live oaks, and rolling hills. Explore your cultural side with cooking demos, wine tastings, harmonica lessons, and reside chats. You can choose from an inclusive or a la carte experience adding on amenities such as chef prepared meals, spa treatments, and private fitness classes. These aren't your ordinary classes. Sure you can sign up for Pilates, but you can also strengthen your core during the mechanical bull workout. When in Texas. KM

Katy, TX – November 10, 2016

The Cinco Ranch High School Chapter of Future Business Leaders of America got together for their annual Halloween Katy Christian Ministries Can Drive. While Halloween commonly holds the American tradition of people of all ages receiving candy and joy from others, the Cinco Ranch Chapter of FBLA decided to take a refreshing reverse and give to others rather than receive. Members went above and beyond spending a round trip of as long as 6 hours placing flyers on their neighbors’ doors and then returning the next day to collect cans to donate to KCM. With the combined effort of hardworking and generous members, the Cinco Ranch Chapter of FBLA was able to collect a grand total of 1316 cans with Daniel Gaw donating the most at an impressive count 325 cans! Following the collection, they had a spooky social decked out with all kinds of creative costumes including teabags, snapchat filters, zombies, magicians, and much more! After dinner, the members gathered to participate in an exciting costume contest by competing against one another for the best costume on the runway! After a couple hours of fun and games, the winner was declared: Haylee Giang won the contest with her "tea-rrific" costume! Special thanks to PDQ for providing FBLA with a nice location and amazing food for this year's "Scare Away Hunger" can drive and Abby Rooney's dad for providing a large truck to transport all 1316 cans to KCM. The Cinco Ranch High School Chapter of FBLA had an enjoyable time making awesome memories and helping out in the community.

Katy, Tx – November 9, 2016 Written by Dr. Erica Wang, Texas Children's Pediatrics – Grand Parkway

For many parents, fever is one of the most concerning and alarming symptoms a child can have. There are many scary fever myths out there – and it's time to set the record straight! To many pediatricians, fever is considered a good sign that the body is mounting a response to an infection.

Here are my top five fever myths and facts:

Myth #1: Temperatures between 98.7°F and 100°F (37.1°C to 37.8°C) are low-grade fevers. Fact: These temperatures are actually normal variations and are not fevers. The body's temperature changes throughout the day and is naturally higher in the afternoon and evening.

An actual fever is any temperature of 100.4°F or higher.

Myth #2: Fevers are bad, can cause brain damage or seizures and are dangerous to my child. Fact: Fevers are a protective mechanism and a sign that the body's immune system is turned on. Most fevers are good for sick children and help the body fight infection. Fevers do not cause brain damage.

As for seizures, the vast majority (96 percent) of children do not have seizures with a fever. About 4 percent of children can have a seizure with a fever – this is called a febrile seizure. Febrile seizures are scary to watch, but they usually stop within five minutes. They do not cause brain damage or have long-term side effects. Children who have had febrile seizures are not at greater risk for developmental delays or learning disabilities.

Myth #3: All fevers need to be treated with fever medicine (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen). After treatment, the fever should go away completely. Fact: Fevers need to be treated only if the child is uncomfortable. For young children, that usually means fevers over 102°F or 103°F (39°C or 39.4°C). With treatment, fevers usually come down 2°F or 3°F (1.1°C or 1.7°C) but may not go away completely. There is no harm in not treating a fever.

Myth #4: The exact number of the temperature is very important. If the fever is high, the cause is serious. Fact: How your child looks is what's important, not the exact temperature. If the fever is high, the cause may or may not be serious. If your child looks very well, the cause is likely to be less serious. One exception is in babies who are less than 3 months of age. They should always be seen by a health care provider right away if they have a fever because their immune systems are not fully developed. If it's the weekend and your baby spikes a fever, it's best to call your doctor's office and take them to an urgent care.

Myth #5: If the fever doesn't come down (if you can't "break the fever"), the cause is serious. Fact: Whether a fever comes down or not, is not related to the seriousness of the infection. The height of the fever and how long it lasts does not tell us whether it is caused by a virus or bacteria. What matters most is how your child looks.

Courtesy of Texas Children's Hospital

Katy, TX – November 9, 2016 The holiday season is upon us, which means parties and presents and endless festivities. The change in schedule can unfortunately mean an increase in stress, for you and your pets. Here are five simple ways to help keep your pet stress-free during the holidays.

Stick to your routine. A predictable routine is important for your dog. Try to ensure specific things – meals, walks, playtime – occur at more or less the same time each day.

Get some exercise. Make a point of providing some type of exercise for your dog every day. Dogs who are not getting enough exercise can become restless, irritable, hyperactive and anxious.

Challenge your pet's brain. Engage your dog with a food puzzle or other interactive toy.

Give your pet some TLC. Lack of attention can cause your dog to feel stressed out, which can lead to bad behavior. Make time for your pet, such as snuggling together or playing with their favorite toy.

Enlist a helping hand. Visitors can help you train and provide entertainment for your pet, but if you need more help, bring your dog to Camp for a fun day of play. They’ll come home tired and ready to relax.

Katy, TX – November 2, 2016

Teenage Katyite turned Hollywood actor shares about her Katy roots and life on the silver screen Written by Kennan Buckner|Photography courtesy of JPI Studios and Marlow Photography

A typical day for recent high school graduate Paige Searcy includes getting her hair and makeup done, running lines with her co-stars, and taping scenes for Days of Our Lives. Searcy was born in Katy and moved to Los Angeles in 2009. "I attended Franz Elementary School which is right down the street from my old Katy home," she says. "Two of my favorite Katy memories are my sixth birthday party at our community pool on Lavenderwood Drive, and sitting in the passenger seat of my dad's Golbow's Garage tow truck chasing down cars that needed a tow."

Last year, Searcy landed her role as Jade Michaels, the love interest of Joey Johnson played by James Lastovic, on Days of Our Lives. "I like to say that my life has been a series of very fortunate events, each event leading to an even greater opportunity. When I first moved to L.A., my intentions were not to start acting," Searcy says. "I missed my hometown of Katy and wanted to move back as soon as possible, but fate had a separate plan for me and led me to the amazing path I’m on right now." Searcy's passion for being on stage began when she joined the musical theatre program at Millikan Middle School. "Actors like Juliette Lewis, John Travolta, and Natalie Portman have definitely influenced me to become an actor," she says. "They star in some of my favorite flicks including The Professional, Urban Cowboy, and Black Swan.

Landing the Role Searcy says the audition process started out a little shaky. She was supposed to receive an expedited passport so she could travel to Canada for a role in a lm, but due to computer difficulties, it didn't arrive on time. Discouraged, Searcy never would have guessed the closed door would quickly lead to the role of a lifetime. "The same day I went home disappointed, I came across another opportunity that absolutely paid off," she says. That's how she landed the role on Days.

Auditions can be nerve-racking, but Searcy learned to face her fears. "I was so hard on myself to get all of my lines right that I forgot the intentions of the scenes I was doing and that resulted in some, what I’d like to call, ‘interesting’ failed auditions," she shares. "I remember the day I got the audition for the role of Jade on Days of Our Lives; I was expected to learn my lines the night before and meet the amazing casting director Marnie Saitta the next morning." The two immediately hit it ff. "She saw something in me that she was proud to present to producers who loved my audition, call back, and chemistry read with James Lastovic."

Working with her movie star crush has been a dream. "James Lastovic has been a pleasure to work with. He is my absolute favorite on the show," says Searcy. Lastovic even attended her real-life high school graduation. "We’ve come a long way since we first started working on the show together."

Future Film "Some say they hate watching themselves act on TV, but honestly, I think it's pretty cool. I can see what choices I made that I like and don't like and learn from them," Searcy says. "My family and friends think it's incredible and fascinating. Who would’ve thought the shy, little Paige from the suburbs of Katy, Texas would make it to Hollywood to become a television star?" A few of her hometown supporters in Katy consist of her father Dylan, sister Brianna, grandmother Norma, grandfather David, and her mother's friend Inga who watches Days religiously.

Searcy is excited about her role in an upcoming independent film, calling it her favorite so far. She will play Charlie, "a young prostitute trying to find herself in the cold, hard world working the streets of the Bronx in New York, while Wednesday, Keke Palmer, her female pimp, encourages her to leave the life of prostitution." The movie is anticipated to release next year.

Searcy encourages others who aspire to acting, or any career to, "Never let anyone tell you that you can't, because you can do anything you set your heart and mind to. Never give up."

Katy, TX – October 27, 2016 364 golfers teed off at The 19th annual Bad Pants Open golf tournament at The Clubs of Kingwood recently, benefiting premature and critically ill babies at Texas Children's Newborn Center, the largest neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in the nation.

The tournament will donate $375,000 to Texas Children's Newborn Center, which will support research and advanced education for NICU providers and improve outcomes for the hospital's tiniest patients.

The colorful tournament, presented by RBC Wealth Management and Capital Markets, is a lighthearted and fun day of golf where the best prizes are awarded for how "bad" players look, not just how well they play! This year's tournament, chaired by Rob Cooksey, vice president of Texas Aromatics, featured prizes for the baddest pants as well NICU nurse of the year, awarded to Crystal Cruz. Becca Schiff, assistant clinical director of nursing for the Newborn Center, gave a speech about the impact funds from The Bad Pants Open have on babies born prematurely or critically-ill. Her own twins were born at 24 weeks gestation weighing just over a pound each. The two year olds are now thriving due to the great care they received in the NICU at Texas Children's Hospital.

Katy, TX – October 27, 2016 The Katy ISD Partners in Education department is once again inviting the community to support families in need this holiday season. Food for Families is an annual campaign that provides $50 grocery gift cards to Katy ISD students and their families. Principals from every Katy ISD campus identify students in need of assistance, and the gift cards are given to those students before winter break. Last year, our Katy ISD community raised $25,000 to support students and their families during the holidays. Since its inception in 2002, this initiative has blessed over 3,000 Katy ISD families thanks to the generous support of our community.

Those interested in participating may contribute cash or check by Thursday, Dec. 8. Donations of any amount are welcome and will be accepted by Partners in Education in person or by mail: Katy ISD ESC, 6301 South Stadium Lane, room 1520, Katy 77494. Please make checks payable to "Katy ISD Food for Families."

Food for Families, a Katy ISD Partners in Education yearly initiative, unites our Katy ISD staff and community in holiday support for select students and their families. To learn more, visit Partners in Education under the "Community" tab at www.katyisd.org or contact Tammy Stringer, 281-396-2645, [email protected].

Just Opened BICYCLE WORLD 24555 Katy Fwy.

BUY BUY BABY 24600 Katy Fwy.

DICK’S SPORTING GOODS 24600 Katy Fwy. DSW 24600 Katy Fwy.

DXL MEN’S APPAREL 24600 Katy Fwy.

FIELD AND STREAM 2400 Katy Fwy.

KIRKLAND’S 24600 Katy Fwy.

PETSMART 2400 Katy Fwy.

THE RUSTIC MILE FURNITURE 24539 Katy Fwy.

EATERIES AGAVE RIO S. of IH-10 on FM 1463

CREAMISTRY ICE CREAM 24515 Katy Fwy.

EL RANCHO 20420 S.W. Fwy.

IHOP Katy Ranch Crossing

LEAFOLOGY TEA LOUNGE 27131 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 9006 S. Fry Rd.

LEE’S CAFÉ 22044 Westheimer Pkwy.

PEI WEI FM 1493 & Spring Green Blvd.

SHOGUN JAPANESE GRILL & SUSHI BAR 20702 Katy Fwy.

SMALLCAKES CUPCAKERY AND CREAMERY 24437 Katy Fwy.

STEAK N’ SHAKE 20950 Katy Fwy.

TAD’S STEAK AND SEAFOOD 8710 Grand Mission Blvd.

Coming Soon

RETAIL FLOOR AND DECOR Katy Ranch Crossing Phase II

KROGER Grand Pkwy. & Morton Ranch Rd.

WALMART Grand Pkwy. & Morton Ranch Rd.

EATERIES ATAMI EXPRESS 569 S. Mason Rd.

CHICK-FIL-A Grand Pkwy. & Morton Ranch Rd.

FADI’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL Mason Creek Corporate 21788 Katy Fwy.

FREEBIRDS Grand Pkwy. & Morton Ranch Rd.

RITTER’S FROZEN CUSTARD ICE CREAM AND DESSERT S.W. corner of Spring Green Blvd. & FM 1463

TACO BELL Grand Pkwy. & Morton Ranch Rd.

WHATABURGER Grand Pkwy. & Morton Ranch Rd.

YORI YORI KOREAN KITCHEN 569 S. Mason Rd.

24 HOUR FITNESS S.W. corner of Spring Green Blvd. & FM 1463

GRAND MORTON ANIMAL HOSPITAL Grand Pkwy. & Morton Ranch Rd.

Katy, TX – October 26, 2016 The Cinco Ranch High School FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition Team 624 (CRyptonite) recently collaborated with the Houston chapter of Sewa International to organize a science event at the Katy ISD Robert Shaw STEAM Center (RSC) to foster interest in science and technology among children. The event was devoted to youth involved in ASPIRE – a Sewa program that provides education and mentoring services after school for young refugees and immigrants.

Over 30 children arrived at the RSC to engage in numerous hands-on activities set up by CRyptonite students, ranging from robot demos and lab tours to mini-experiments that explored topics such as air pressure, force, and elasticity. The trip also included a presentation on robot design and testing to introduce the basic principles of robotics.

After the success of this event and a previous partnership involving robot demos in an underserved neighborhood, CRyptonite and Sewa International look forward to future collaborations to help provide fun science-based activities for ASPIRE children and share the FIRST robotics mission to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders.

"We hopefully plan on doing this for many more years to come," CRyptonite Team President Alyssa Wu said. "It was amazing to see these kids all hyped over our science activities and it's really heartwarming to see our effect on their lives. I hope they continue to be this happy when working with science."

Katy, TX (October 25, 2016) Centerra Ranch Montessori School in Katy invited local law enforcement officers to their facility to show their appreciation and respect. Officers visited with students, let them sit in their vehicles, and explained the various technology they used. Students had a great time meeting officers and learning more about what they do. Owner Angeline Labbè-Auzenne adds, "We wanted our children to tour their police cars in hope of dismissing any anxiety our young children may have recently developed."

The officers also fielded questions from their young audience including, "How do you become a police officer?" To which they replied, "Stay in school, go to college, and be really nice to others."

In addition to their tours and high fives, the officers were also served a fajita lunch complete with cupcakes and caramel apples. They were also presented with a pledge from the staff and students at Centerra Ranch Montessori School which read, "Today we pledge to remind the few if ill of you they speak, that you are all that stands between the monsters and the weak."

To show their avid appreciation, students presented the officers with "thank you" cards and messages.

Katy, TX (October 24, 2016)

Cinco Ranch graduate, Brianna Garcia, shares her dream and journey to cheer for the big leagues.

Written by Debbie McDaniel | Select photography courtesy of See What Develops

As a child, Brianna grew up watching the Texans play football and remembers the anticipation of going to the stadium with her dad every season. Brianna was starstruck by the cheerleaders and couldn't wait to be one of them. "Ever since I was little, I would tell him, ‘I can't wait to try out for the Houston Texans Cheerleaders as soon as I turn 18!’" Her dad, Joey Yadi Garcia, has been a season ticket holder since day one, when the team first took the field as the Houston Texans. When Brianna heard her name called as one of the Texans Cheerleaders, she felt a rush of adrenaline like she had never felt before.

Dancing Through Life Texans Cheerleader started dancing when she was just 3 years old. Becky's Academy of Dance became her dance home, up until high school when she danced her way to the Cougar Stars dance team at Cinco Ranch High School, and served as social officer and spirit coordinator. Brianna says she couldn't have done it without her family, "My parents, family, and friends have all been such amazing supporters."

Intense Training Getting ready to try out for the Houston Texans Cheerleaders requires great commitment and hard work. "I started preparing months before tryouts by changing my diet and working out." Brianna trained under the guidance of personal trainer Alexis and worked out almost every day. In addition to these workouts, she took weekly dance classes designed specically for pro sports. "Because I was so passionate, it really helped me enjoy each step of the process, even though it was challenging."

That Magic Moment Brianna shares that when the names were called, she felt a rush of adrenaline and huge relief. "It was a feeling I can't explain. It is denitely a moment I will never forget." Brianna's devotion and desire to reach for her dreams is an inspiring reminder – hard work and determination really do pay off. "Trying out for the team is a huge commitment and just like anything else, you have to be willing to put in all of your eort to see the results you aspire to achieve."

Representing the Texans One thing she enjoys most about being a Texans Cheerleader is the ability to support the community and represent the Texans team. "Coming out to the events that the Houston Texans sponsor has been such an amazing experience, I love interacting with the community and fans!" The cheerleaders are often each other's biggest fans, "We are all very supportive of each other." One of the biggest challenges for Brianna is staying in good physical condition. "Staying away from sweets and cutting back on going out to eat is a struggle," she laughs. She admits that she loves sweet treats like cheesecake, ice cream, and crepes, and loves to try different foods from new restaurants.

Follow Your Passion Brianna says she is blessed to have attended such great Katy ISD schools and have the relationships she has built in the Katy area. "Growing up in Katy has been such a joy! Katy reminds me of one giant family. Everyone is so friendly to those around them; supporting each other throughout the community in both difficult and happy times." Her advice to Katy ISD cheerleaders and aspiring dancers is simple. "Always do what you love and are passionate about. Having passion in what you do in life will always show and get you further than you ever thought possible. Do what you love with condence and spirit." KM

DEBBIE MCDANIEL is a cheer mom to 9-year-old Gracie, who loves to jump, dance, and practice stunts on the furniture.

Katy, TX – October 24, 2016

"Outbacker of the Month" is Odessa Kilpatrick Elementary ‘s most prestigious award. Kilpatrick Outbackers exhibit "Koalaty" character: they always lend a helping hand, have a smile on their face, serve as role models, and go above and beyond to make OKE an exemplary school. Each month, one student from each grade level, a staff member, and a volunteer are selected "Outbacker of the Month." Our September Outbackers are teacher Rhonda Miller, students Edward Barbee, Grayson Sanchez, Declan Hoeferlin, Racheet Bedi, Caroline MacLellan , Tyler Cline and volunteer Felicia Schubert.

Katy, TX – October 19, 2016 Halloween arrived early for hundreds of Houston area families on Sunday as Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital celebrated a record-high turnout for its 6th annual Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) reunion.

Decked out in Halloween costumes, more than 900 NICU graduates and their families flocked to the Houston Zoo to reunite with their caregivers and enjoy a festive autumn morning of pumpkin decorating and carnival games.

"Every year, the NICU reunion is a much-anticipated event for our physicians, nurses and other members of the care team who look forward to the opportunity to re-connect with patients they haven't seen in months or even years in some cases," said Nicole Francis, clinical director of neonatal services at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital. "It's always so rewarding to see the tremendous progress these children make once they graduate from our care. Nothing brings me more fulfillment than seeing their smiles and witnessing their joy."

In addition to the many fun-filled activities and a free pass into Houston Zoo Boo 2016, the NICU reunion had a special treat this year that delighted the crowd, both young and old. Curious George®, the timeless storybook monkey who now has his own popular animated television show, made a surprise appearance as part of Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital's ongoing sponsorship of PBS KIDS on Houston Public Media.

"The kids were beyond excited to meet Curious George and have their photo taken with their favorite PBS character," Francis said. "We are proud to play our role in helping support such a cherished community partner that has made it a mission to foster literacy and educational development in children across the Houston area."

See more photos of the Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital NICU reunion.

Katy, TX – October 11, 2016 Recently, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses at Texas Children's Hospital were celebrated for the care they provide to the hospital's tiniest and most critically-ill babies. The nurses wore "bad pants" decorated with bright, colorful adornments in the spirit of the Bad Pants Open, an annual golf tournament that raises funds to support research and advanced education for NICU providers at Texas Children's. Houston media personalities acted as "bad pants" judges, checking out each nurse's bad pants and awarding the top three designs with hand-painted commemorative plates created by hospital patients.

The colorful celebration also included remarks from Becca and Mike Schiff, whose twins Elliot and Jonah were born at just 24 weeks gestation, weighing 1 pound, 6 ounces each. They were given a 25% chance of survival, but against the odds—and thanks to the specialized care they received in the NICU—Jonah and Elliott continued to grow stronger and are now thriving 2 year olds. Texas Children's Hospital has the largest NICU in the nation and cares for more than 2,500 premature or critically-ill babies per year.

Proceeds from the 19th annual Bad Pants Open golf tournament will support continued innovation and excellence in the research, treatment and care of critically ill and premature infants at Texas Children's Newborn Center. At the Bad Pants Open, the best prizes are awarded for how "bad" players look, not just how well they play! Presented by RBC Wealth Management/Capital Markets, this light-hearted annual golf tournament staged at the Clubs of Kingwood helps improve outcomes for infants by raising funds to support critical research, patient care and education initiatives. This year's tournament is chaired by Rob Cooksey, vice president of Texas Aromatics.

Katy, Texas – October 5, 2016– Cane Island's Living Arches, part of the Katy master-planned community's impressive arrival experience, has won a Texas Star Award for Best Special Feature of a Community.

Presented by the Texas Association of Builders, the Texas Star Awards showcase the outstanding work of builders, remodelers, architects, designers and sales, marketing and construction professionals throughout Texas. The award is the only statewide tribute to excellence in the home building industry.

Stretching over Cane Island Parkway, Cane Island's Living Arches are comprised of two steel sculptures incorporating hundreds of glass leaves and thousands of programmable LED lights which change colors with the seasons and for special occasions. A motion sensor activates the show as a car approaches, and its planter boxes allow for native Texas vines to grow and intertwine through the sculptures.

"When we designed Cane Island, we wanted to create an arrival experience that says ‘you’re somewhere special,’" notes Dan Naef, president of Rise Communities, developer of Cane Island. "It's certainly an honor to be recognized by our industry."

Cane Island also won Texas Star Awards for Best Showroom Sales Center and Best Sales Brochure by a developer.

One of the most sought-after master-planned communities west of Houston, Cane Island offers new luxury homes from the $200s to the millions, including those in gated sections and on prized cul-de-sac homesites from Coventry Homes, Toll Brothers, Ryland Homes, Shea Homes, David Weekley Homes, Perry Homes and Trendmaker Homes. Residents enjoy a resort-style Amenity Village along with easy access onto Interstate 10 via the Cane Island Parkway.

The community also offers The Estates at Cane Island, a gated custom home neighborhood with Houston's first street pantries. For directions to Cane Island and to sign up for e-mail updates from the community, go to www.CaneIsland.com.

Katy, Texas – September 22, 2016 Some of the best places to watch the game, enjoy good food and drinks, and have a great time

What better way to watch a sports game than heading to a local restaurant with your buds? There's no need to spend money on expensive cable sports packages, squeezing your friends into your living room with one TV, or cleaning up. Katy offers some great hangouts to cheer on your team.

BAKER STREET PUB 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 713-830-1858 | bakerstreetpub.com British-style food and beer are the standard findings at this pub. Grab a table or a booth in front of one of the big screen TVs and order up some shareables such as pub wings, loaded chicken nachos, or potato skins. Don't worry, you won't have to watch rugby or cricket; American football and basketball rule here.

BOURBON STREET SPORTS BAR 803 S. Mason Rd. 281-398-2424 | bourbonstreetsportsbarkaty.com There are six HD projection screens and 15 HD flat screens so fans who love the NFL, UFC, and NBA will enjoy catching the games here. Food specials include $0.60 cent wings, $4 1/3 pound cheeseburgers, and a $13.99 steak entrée with a baked potato and salad.

BUFFALO WILD WINGS Multiple Locations buffalowildwings.com This is one of the most popular places to go for some really good wings and sports. There are at least 30 flat screens positioned around the restaurant so you won't strain your neck trying to watch your team get a win, no matter the sport. This place has wings and many combinations of sauces to choose from, but make sure you try the other menu items as well.

OLD CHICAGO PIZZA & TAPROOM 24515 Katy Fwy. 281-347-0090 | oldchicago.com This restaurant welcomes customers with over 30 craft beers on tap, burgers, ale-infused pizza, hand-braided calzones, and classic and boneless wings. There are 15 50-inch HD televisions at the restaurant always tuned to the games.

THE PUBLIC HOUSE 22758 Westheimer Pkwy. 281-395-3473 | publichousekaty.com This Irish-themed pub supports local craft beer from the Katy and Houston area. The pub eats include a variety of dishes with unique names such as Kelliwood fried mushrooms, Grand Lake fish tacos, and Cinco Ranch boneless wings. Support your team at a place that supports Katy!

SAMMY’S SPORTS GRILL Multiple Locations sammyssportsgrillandbar.com With big screens everywhere you look, it's easy to catch any game you are interested in. The restaurant offers sandwiches, burgers, and entreés if you are looking to eat more than appetizers and wings.

STADIA SPORTS GRILL WESTGREEN 20900 Katy Fwy. 281-578-9900 | stadiasportsgrill-wg.com With over 50 TVs and six projectors, and all the available sports channels, no game will be missed. Drink and food specials are available on game nights. Customers love the wings, Angus beef burgers, and the new Stadia burger.

TOPGOLF 1030 Memorial Brook Blvd., Houston 281-406-3176 | topgolf.com You’ll never have a problem finding a place to watch the game here because there are more than 200 HDTVs. Try one of their signature drinks and then order some bacon mac ‘n cheese spring rolls, signature nachos, and cheese fries. Free WiFi available throughout the venue makes this the ultimate destination for fantasy draft parties. Even if your team is losing, you’ll be winning with this setup.

WORLD OF BEER 2643 Commercial Center Blvd. 281-394-9625 | worldofbeer.com For those who enjoy having a beer while watching the game, this is the place to be. They have over 500 beers on tap, so you’re set for every game. Share a bowl of house-made beer cheese, tavern tots, or southern fried pickles while you cheer on your team. KM

Katy, Texas – September 20, 2016 Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral illness that usually affects infants and children younger than 5 years old. However, it can sometimes occur in adults. Symptoms of hand, foot and mouth disease include fever, blister-like sores in the mouth (herpangina) and a skin rash. Hand, foot and mouth disease is often confused with foot-and-mouth disease (also called hoof-and-mouth disease), a disease of cattle, sheep and swine. However, the two diseases are caused by different viruses and are not related.

The initial symptoms of Hand, foot and mouth disease include:

Within two days, the symptoms typically include:

Hand, foot and mouth disease is highly contagious and is spread from person to person. The time period of contagion is the highest during the first week of the illness; however, the disease can stay in the body for weeks after all symptoms are gone and still be spreading the disease. Adults with no symptoms may also be spreading the virus without knowing they have the disease.

A person will come in contact with this disease through bodily fluids, which include:

Treatment for hand, foot and mouth disease includes taking over-the-counter medication to relieve pain and fever, such as acetaminophen or using mouthwashes or sprays to numb any mouth pain. However, if you are concerned and/or symptoms worsen, seek medical attention.

Find out more information about hand, foot and mouth disease.

Content Courtesy of Texas Children's Hospital

Katy, Texas – September 13, 2016 "I need me time!" This is a lament that is heard a lot from younger friends who are moms of young kids – and older ones too. It is hard to get alone time with children running around.

Here are some ideas of how to get some me time even when you don't have lots of resources or support.

1) Switch off with a friend to watch each other's kids for a few hours. Then go for a walk or just stay home to read for a bit.

2) If a friend has a responsible child that is old enough to babysit, do something quid pro quo. For example, offer to make the other family a dinner casserole or dessert in exchange for an hour or two of free time.

3) Share a babysitter with friends. Make sure, of course, the sitter can handle more then one child. Then, for a few dollars each, you can all participate in an exercise class or play Bunco for a bit.

4) Put the kids to be EARLY. 7:30/8:00 is not too early to put the kids to bed, even if they don't go to school. That 8:00 to 10:00 time frame, before you collapse with fatigue, is great for straightening up and catching up on few shows.

5) Do sleepover exchanges with your kid's friend's parents. The kids think it is great and then you have either quality time with the child left at home or just glorious time to yourself for an evening.

6) Plan activities that you like for yourself that the kids also enjoy. For example, my niece plays kid music when she uses her elliptical machine. She gets her exercise accomplished and the kids dance away and enjoy too.

7) When a trusted family member offers to watch the kids, LET THEM!! Give yourself a break and enjoy the time. Your kids get the opportunity to build relationships and you get to take a shower without anyone interrupting.

8) Park time is great too. The kids play and you can catch up with emails on your smart phone, play words with friends or just chat with the other mothers, also known as ADULTS!!

You don't always have to worry about cleaning the house or being productive when your child naps. Let the clutter be and take of yourself. A contented parent with a messy home, is far better then a mom ready to pop her cork at the slightest provocation. Not only are the kids happier, but I am certain that you will be too.

Content Courtesy of The Goddard School

Katy, Texas – September 13, 2016 the Cinco Ranch High School chapter of Future Business Leaders of America had the honor of sending 23 exemplary student representatives to the 2016 National Leadership Conference in Atlanta, Georgia.

However before traveling 800 miles away from home to compete and learn at this national conference, the students had to qualify at districts and state in their respective events, such as business communications, parliamentary procedures, public speaking, and more. Through their hard work and diligence, these Cinco Ranch students set their eyes on Atlanta to compete in their individual or group events, learn from the most outstanding professional leaders such as keynote speaker David Novak, the CEO of YUM! Brands Inc., and connect with a diverse group of people, from as far away as Cuba, the Virgin Islands, Canada, and China.

In addition to growing professionally, students and advisors were able to explore the various attractions centralized in Atlanta, Georgia including the Georgia Aquarium (the largest aquarium up until 2012), World of Coca Cola, and CNN Center. While students were not busy preparing for their competitive events or attending professional workshops, they had the opportunity to experience the vast amount of entertainment scattered around the beautiful city.

Proudly representing their school and district, the Cinco Ranch High School finished the conference with numerous awards. Sabrina Pereira placed 6th in Agribusiness and partners Tiffany Bui and Amy Wang placed 10th in Hospitality Management.

The Cinco Ranch chapter of FBLA's journey to nationals was made possible by advisers John Bryan, Derek Spier, and Rita Perry.

Katy, Texas – September 8, 2016 It doesn't matter if your glass is half-empty or half-full: Drinking water is always good for your health. Our bodies are made of 60% water, and staying hydrated helps your system distribute healthy nutrients, gets rid of waste, gives your skin a healthy glow and keeps your muscles moving. Sipping water is also one of the best things you can do for your teeth – especially if it's fluoridated. Read on to find out why water is always a winner for your dental health.

It Strengthens Your Teeth Drinking water with fluoride (called "nature's cavity fighter") is one of the easiest and most beneficial things you can do to help prevent cavities.

A modern-day tale of two cities shows what a difference fluoride makes, especially in community water systems. In 2011, the Canadian city of Calgary stopped adding fluoride to its water. Curious about the impact, researchers compared Calgary second graders with kids in the same age group in Edmonton, a Canadian city that has had fluoridated water since 1967. Their research, published in the February 2016 journal Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology, found children in non-fluoridated Calgary had more tooth decay than children in the city with uninterrupted fluoridation.

It Keeps Your Mouth Clean Drinking juice, soda or sports drinks may help you wash down your dinner, but they can leave unwanted sugar behind on your teeth. The cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth love to eat sugar and produce acid that wears away enamel, which is the outer shell of your teeth. Many of these drinks also have added acids (phosphoric, citrus or malic acid) to make them taste less sweet, but those acids also eat away at your teeth.

Water, however, cleans your mouth with every sip. It washes away leftover food and residue that cavity-causing bacteria are looking for. It also dilutes the acids produced by the bacteria in your mouth. You’ll still need to brush twice a day for two minutes and clean between your teeth, but drinking water through the day will go a long way toward keeping your smile cavity-free.

It Fights Dry Mouth Saliva is your mouth's first defense against tooth decay. It washes away leftover food, helps you swallow with ease and keeps your teeth strong by washing them with calcium, phosphate and fluoride.

When your saliva supply runs low, dry mouth may put you at risk for tooth decay. Drinking water can help cut your risk as you and your dentist work to find the best long-term solution for you.

It's Calorie-Free Sweetened drinks that are high in sugar and calories, create a perfect storm that puts you at risk for cavities and other unhealthy consequences like weight gain. In fact, studies have shown that drinking water can actually help you lose weight. So the next time you need a drink, go guilt-free with water to take care of your body and your smile.

Content Courtesy of Clay Dental

Katy, Texas – August 29, 2016 – Memorial Hermann recently teamed up with the YMCA of Greater Houston to help make sure hundreds of area students have the supplies they need to start the school year. Memorial Hermann physicians, employees and volunteers donated money and school supplies as part of the YMCA of Greater Houston's Operation Backpack 2016.

Memorial Hermann campuses have long supported Operation Backpack but this year Women Leaders of Memorial Hermann along with Memorial Hermann's Partners in Caring, worked closely to consolidate the initiative across the system. Collection sites were set up at 10 locations across the Memorial Hermann system and employees could also donate online through the Memorial Hermann Foundation.

Memorial Hermann physicians, employees and staff collected supplies to fill more than 1,200 backpacks to be distributed to students in need throughout metro Houston. In addition, employees donated more than $1,200 to the YMCA of Greater Houston to further support Operation Backpack.

"Operation Backpack is such an important program and it's been exciting to see our participation expand throughout the Memorial Hermann system this year," says Erin Asprec, Regional President of Memorial Hermann and co-founder of the Women Leaders of Memorial Hermann. "We want students to begin the school year empowered with feelings of hope and joy and not stress or anxiety over not having the school supplies they need to be successful."

Memorial Hermann set up donation boxes at Memorial Hermann Convenient Care Center in Cypress, Memorial Hermann Greater Heights Hospital, Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital, Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center, Memorial Hermann Pearland Hospital, Memorial Hermann Rehabilitation Hospital- Katy, Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital, Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital and TIRR Memorial Hermann. A donation box was also placed at the regional office of United Surgical Partners International in Houston, a partner of Memorial Hermann.

"Our mission is to "Advance Health" and that includes the emotional health of children and families in our community," said Kyle Price, Sr. Vice President and CEO, Memorial Hermann Southeast. "We want to help students to arrive at school with confidence and the tools they need to learn and to excel."

The YMCA of Greater Houston area set a goal of distributing 100,000 backpacks to students throughout the community this year. The backpacks not only include school supplies but also notes of encouragement to the students. Donations to Operation Backpack are still being accepted through the YMCA of Greater Houston.

Content Courtesy of Memorial Hermann

Katy, Texas – August 26, 2016 – One of the area's newest master-planned communities, Katy's Cane Island, will host Apple Fest, a month-long celebration of the most widely grown fruit symbolic of education, great-tasting sweets and fall family fun.

Free and open to the public every weekend in October, Apple Fest will present all-things apple, from candied apples and pie-eating contests to apple cider and apple ale tastings. Both Apple Fest celebrations will feature food trucks, DJ music along with apple-themed games and bounce houses for the kids.

Visitors to the Apple Fest weekend celebrations in Cane Island also can enter a drawing for the chance to win a new Apple Watch.

Hours for Apple Fest in Cane Island are Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sundays, noon – 6 p.m.

While Apple Fest festivities will be held in the community's new resort-style Amenity Village, Cane Island also offers the opportunity for families to tour model homes by Houston's leading homebuilders, each fully furnished and expertly decorated.

Go to www.applefesthouston.com for a complete schedule of events. To reach Cane Island, take the new Cane Island Parkway exit off Interstate 10 minutes west of the Grand Parkway. Head north on Cane Island Parkway and take the temporary detour into the community.

Katy, Texas – August 25, 2016

Heading back to school can be an exciting time of transition for families with preschool and Kindergartners, but it's important to develop healthy habits – starting with your drop-off ritual – that set everyone in the family up for success for the year to come. That's why Kiddie Academy developed an infographic outlining some of our kid-tested, mom-approved drop-off tips to start your school year off strong – starting when you get out of the car and head into school. They even include bonus tips from professionals who have been there: moms and dads like you!

Katy, Texas – August 24, 2016 Just Opened

Aerial Fitness 11605 S. Fry Rd. 302-753-7247

Arthur Murray Dance Studio of Katy 3750 S. Mason Rd. 832-916-5500

Bling Out Loud 623 S. Mason Rd. 727-282-5464

Define Body & Mind 27131 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 832-437-7704

Frio To Go 24449 Katy Fwy. 713-338-1350

Grand Medical Clinic 2830 Commercial Center Blvd. 281-693-1700

Growler USA – America's Microbrew Pub 1443 FM 1463 720-465-6670

Hashtag Kids Co. 11605 S. Fry Rd. 832-523-2077

Hormone Harmony 21392 Provincial Blvd. 281-944-9472

Houston Fertility Specialists 23960 Katy Fwy., #340 281-693-2434

Jazzercise Katy Studio 5305 Highway Blvd. 281-550-5654

Just for Kids Pediatrics 418 Park Grove Dr. 281-492-0774

Katy Ideal Weight Loss 21733 Provincial Blvd. 832-321–3765

Kelsey Seybold Clinic 22121 FM 1093 713-442-4100

Kung Fu Tea 501 S. Mason Rd. 281-206-7339

La Argentina Artisanal Gelato 3750 S. Mason Rd. 832-921-6236

Realty Pros of Texas 21348 Provincial Blvd. 281-398-6060

RueBird Market 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 281-394-9365

Spicy Isle Caribbean Kitchen 1251 Pin Oak Rd. 832-356-4396

Starbucks 2015 S. Mason Rd. 832-773-4626

Steak ‘N Shake 20950 Katy Fwy. 281-578-1987

Storage West 20742 FM 1093 888-809-1812

Team Legacy Martial Arts 5929 FM 1463 832-913-8820

Texas Dermatology 21800 IH-10 713-771-1100

Tiger Noodle House 21977 IH-10 626-500-7155

Torrid Katy Mills Mall IH-10 and Pin Oak Rd. 281-644-5000

Coming Soon

99 Ranch 569 S. Mason Rd. Late 2016

Coco's Café Stableside at Falcon Landing Gaston Rd. and Falcon Landing Blvd.

Daiso 501 S. Mason Rd. November 2016

Kravin’ Fruit Bar 281-530-5728 September 2016

LA Crawfish 569 S. Mason Rd.

Lowe's Shoppes at Cinco Ranch 9555 Spring Green Blvd. Spring 2017

Martha's Mexican Grill 2611 FM 1463

Peli Peli 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 281-257-9500

Pierre's Café 1425 FM 1463 281-762-0312

Raising Canes 410 S. Mason Rd. Late 2016

Springfree Trampoline 2717 Commercial Center Blvd.

Sub Zero Ice Cream and Yogurt Stableside at Falcon Landing Gaston Rd. and Falcon Landing Blvd.

Sugar Creek Montessori 4802 FM 1463 Fall 2016

University of Houston – Katy Branch Grand Pkwy. and IH-10 at Grand Circle Blvd. Fall 2018

Urban Bricks Pizza Co. 5650 W. Grand Pkwy. S.

Whiskey Cake Kitchen & Bar IH-10 and Grand Pkwy.

Please confirm dates and locations with individual businesses as details may have changed since time of print. Send your new-to-Katy items to [email protected]

Katy, Texas – August 10, 2016 99 Ranch Market is proud to announce the opening of new store in City of Katy. This is also going to be the 40th store of the Asian supermarket chain in the nation. Katy joins 99 Ranch Market's Texas family which includes Houston, Plano, Sugar Land and Carrollton. Now, the best products in groceries, seafood, meat, produce and hundreds of Asian specialty items are even more convenient for local customers.

Just like other established 99 Ranch Market branches, the Katy store is devoted to serve shoppers’ needs for quality Asian products at competitive prices. The Asian supermarket chain's top priority is to provide fresh, nutritious and healthy products ranging from East Asia to North America. These include imported snacks and ingredients, locally grown vegetables and fruits, freshly caught seafood and high-quality meat at competitive prices. In addition, customers can enjoy the delicious food and drinks in-store at the Hot Deli or take home freshly-made pastries and sweets from Bread Farm Bakery.

99 Ranch Market is located in the centralized area on S. Mason Road near the I-10 Freeway; this spacious store covers over 40,000 square feet, with clean and modern interior and exterior design. It is 99 Ranch Market's goal to create a superior one-stop shopping experience for all customers from the minute they walk in until the time they check out with a full-cart of groceries.

To celebrate the grand opening 99 Ranch Market will be offering department-wide promotions to new and returning customers

Content Courtesy of Katy Magazine

Katy, Texas – August 4, 2016 With the upcoming sales tax holiday, parents may be considering the purchase of a new backpack for their child.

Whether your child will be carrying books or a tablet computer to school, there are some important things to remember when making that very important backpack purchase.

"Backpacks that are worn or used incorrectly can cause injury to the muscles and joints of the neck, shoulders and spine. This can lead to pain in these areas as well as changes in posture," says Paul Shupe, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon affiliated with Memorial Hermann IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute-Memorial City and Assistant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth.

The National Safety Council offers these tips for selecting the right backpack.

"Once you’ve purchased a backpack, watch how your child wears it. Encourage them to use both shoulder straps and tighten them so that the load is closer to the body," recommends Dr. Shupe.

Some school districts offer digital textbooks or require students to keep backpacks in their lockers, which should keep kids from carrying heavy backpacks for extended periods of time. For students who do carry their backpacks throughout the day, Dr. Shupe warns against ignoring complaints of back pain.

"If your child complains of numbness, tingling, or discomfort in their arms and legs, it may indicate an improper backpack fit or too heavy of a load. Check how they wear the backpack and encourage them to leave unnecessary books at home or in their locker as much as possible. If they still complain about being in pain, you should consult a physician," advises Dr. Shupe.

The Memorial Hermann IRONMAN Sports Medicine Institute-Memorial City is staffed by physical therapists and affiliated sports medicine fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons who specialize in treating injuries of the foot, ankle, knee, hip, shoulder, elbow and hand. You can schedule an appointment by calling (713)486-1700 or through ScheduleNow.

Content Courtesy of Memorial Hermann Hospital

Katy, Texas – August 1, 2016 Summer in Houston means hot, humid weather with many people going to swimming pools, lakes and the beach to find relief from the heat. With all of the water fun, we see more and more children with swimmer's ear, otitis externa (OE).

OE can occur in both the ear and the ear canal and starts when excess water gets trapped in the canal, causing skin breakdown and allowing bacteria cultivation. The excess water usually comes from swimming, thus creating the term for the infection – swimmer's ear. However OE can come from other causes as well, including moisture retention from showering, headphones, trauma of the canal from the use of cotton swabs, and alteration of the pH of the ear canal. Some kids can go swimming all summer long and not get swimmer's ear, but some could get the infection right after a shower. No one can totally explain it.

Usually there are several symptoms with the most pressing symptom being a sharp, "stabbing" pain. Don't underestimate the severity of the pain associated with this relatively "simple" problem. Even though swimmer's ear is rarely serious, it can be a very painful condition due to the plentiful supply of nerves to this area of the body. Other symptoms include swelling of the ear canal, itching, drainage and hearing loss.

Typically, swimmer's ear can be treated quickly. Usually your child's doctor can use a suction device to remove debris and discharge in the canal. Your doctor may also prescribe antibacterial ear drops and ibuprofen as a pain killer. Sometimes the swelling is so great that the opening to the external auditory canal is totally closed and drops will be prevented from reaching the walls of the ear canal. In these cases, your child's physician will likely position a small wick in the external canal to draw the medication down the swollen canal. The wick, which functions as a straw carrying the drops to the infected area, usually remains in place for 72 hours. The wick can be removed easily and the drops should be continued for a period of days.

In order to decrease episodes of swimmer's ear it is best to use ear plugs when swimming and carefully dry the external canal after getting out of the water. I recommend drying the canal with a hair dryer on a low setting or using a terry cloth towel over your index finger and inserting it into your child's ear canal to absorb any excess water. In addition, avoid using cotton swabs to remove the moisture in the ear canal as this will frequently cause trauma.

Using these simple tips should help you and your child enjoy all of the water related activities that are so popular. So keep those ear canals dry, wear sunscreen and have a healthy summer!

Content Courtesy of Texas Children's Hospital

Katy, Texas – July 18, 2016 NASA launched Apollo 11 to the moon 47 years ago on July 16, 1969. What exactly did it take to accomplish this successful, history-making mission? Hear a behind-the-scenes account from one of the NASA scientists who helped make that dream a reality, at a special program at Fort Bend County Libraries’ Cinco Ranch Branch Library on Saturday, August 13, in the Meeting Room of the library, located at 2620 Commercial Center Blvd in Katy.

The program will be divided into two parts. "Apollo, Part I – To the Moon" will take place from 10:30 to 11:30 am. The second half of the program, "Apollo, Part II – Guidance Equations," will take place from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. The public has a choice of attending the entire program or the individual sessions.

In Part I of the program, retired physicist F. Don Cooper will share his experiences creating the technology that helped launch Apollo 11 in 1969, and the efforts that his team went through to successfully bring the Apollo 13 crew home safely in 1970. Cooper will also discuss the history of U.S. rockets, and his role in designing the Saturn V ascent guidance and trans-lunar targeting equations that would help make space travel possible.

In Part II of Cooper's program about the Apollo missions, he will talk more specifically about how geometry, algebra, calculus, and classical mechanics were used to produce the Saturn V guidance equations. Cooper will explain what the guidance equations were, how they were derived, who created them, and how well they worked. Students who are considering a career in a STEM-related field will gain insight into how mathematics and physics can be used to solve real-world problems.

An Oklahoma native, Cooper became fascinated with math and science while still in high school. He attended Oklahoma Baptist University, where he majored in physics and mathematics with a minor in chemistry. His career after college took him to Huntsville, Alabama, where he worked at the George C. Marshall Space Flight Center on NASA's Apollo program, developing the targeting equations to guide the manned spacecraft from earth orbit to the moon. His career then led him to Houston's Johnson Spaceflight Center, which would later become known as the Johnson Space Center. During his years there, Cooper worked on eight Apollo missions, the Atlas Centaur, the Air Force Dyna-Soar, and the Mars rocket NOVA. For the Apollo 13 mission, he provided the trans-lunar coast abort options to Houston Mission Control.

Content courtesy of Cinco Ranch Branch Libraty

However, according to PetAmberAlert.com more pets go missing around the 4th of July than any other time of the year. Animal Control Services sees a 30% increase in lost animals around the holiday, but only 14% are returned to owners.

It is much safer to keep your pet at home or in a pet care facility during the festivities, but if you decide to bring along your furry friends, there are certain safety concerns you must keep in mind!

Never use fireworks around pets. Lit fireworks can severely burn pets and unused ones contain potentially toxic chemicals and other substances. Also, animals are startled by the loud bangs of fireworks and noisy parties, often causing them to run away.

Never leave alcoholic drinks unattended. Alcohol is poisonous to animals and ingestion can potentially result in weakness, severe depression, a coma, or even death from respiratory failure.

Do not put glow jewelry on pets, or allow them to play with it. The glowing substance can result in excessive drooling and gastrointestinal irritation if ingested and swallowing the plastic can lead to intestinal blockage.

Keep citronella candles, insect coils and oil products out of reach. Ingestion of these products can irritate animals’ stomachs and potentially cause central nervous system depression. If inhaled, the oils could cause aspiration pneumonia in pets.

For more tips on keeping your dog and other pets safe this 4th of July, check out ASPCA.com

Content Courtesy of Camp Bow Wow

Katy, Texas – June 24, 2016 This month, Gymboree Play & Music celebrates 40 years as the leader in parent and child programs around the world. What began as a program in the co-founder's home has evolved at the forefront of the play movement and continues today as one of the most trusted resources available to help all parents understand and witness firsthand the vital impact play, music and art have on the development of the whole child.

Today, Gymboree Play & Music has grown into a beloved early childhood play center and program with more than 700 centers in 40 countries around the world.

Devina Bhojwani the franchise owner of four Houston area Gymboree Play & Music locations shared her story with us. "I started my Gymboree journey as a mom in the program in 2008 with my then six-month old daughter. Taking her to the Saturday morning class soon became a ritual that all three of us looked forward to. My baby did not crawl," says Devina, "but instead scooted on her butt. As a first time mom I worried about this and approached my Gymboree teacher to ask her if this was normal and she assured me that my daughter had figured out a way to be mobile and would most likely skip the crawling stage and one day just stand up and start walking. And that's exactly what happened."

At Gymboree we found a place to meet like-minded parents like us, to have uninterrupted playtime with our daughter and most importantly to play without any pressure. In a world where 82 percent of moms receive unsolicited parenting advice, a place to freely play without judgment is a must-have for today's parent.

I was pursuing a career in financial planning and forecasting at an oil and gas company. While I knew I wanted to work, I reached a point where I wanted my strengths and passions to make a larger impact on the world. Additionally, both my husband and I had high pressure careers and I wanted to make a change to be more available to my daughter for school events, field trips, etc.

In 2010 I left my Corporate job for business ownership and purchased three Gymboree centers and have not looked back since. As Joan Barnes rightly says in her memoir Play It Forward – "I wanted to build a business for women to combine their family focus with business". I have been able to find the balance between working and having the flexibility to be available for the family.

I love being able to lead my team of over 50 staff members and to see the little one's faces light up during class time. My team calls Gymboree our "happy place" and just being here puts a big smile in our hearts!

We won the award for "New Franchisee of the year" in our first year of business ownership and have grown the business by over 20% since 2010. I am also honored to represent the North America Gymboree community and hold a coveted spot on the Gymboree Franchise Council.

A study announced today, and conducted on behalf of Gymboree Play & Music, reveals that 98 percent of moms feel the need for more play in their lives. 74 percent of moms also wish they spent more time playing with their child – at least an additional 45 minutes every day.

To celebrate our 40th anniversary Gymboree Play & Music will open their doors on Saturday, June 25th from 9:00-3:00pm to celebrate the National Day of Play. This event is complimentary and open to anyone with a child in the age range of 6mos-5years. Please join us for spectacular play activities, flying parachutes, blasts of bubbles, art, music, refreshments and more! Enjoy some uninterrupted playtime with your child.

About Gymboree Play & Music – Gymboree Play & Music is the founding member of the Gymboree family of brands. Since its creation by founder Joan Barnes in 1976, Gymboree Play & Music has celebrated and encouraged the joy of childhood by creating developmentally appropriate play, music and art classes that offer kids and parents the opportunity to learn, grow and share time together.

Based on a blend of early childhood development theories complemented by 40 years of hands-on experience, Gymboree Play & Music offers a variety of programming for kids ages newborn to five, including Play & Learn classes, which encourage development from sensory exploration to playful-problem solving, music classes that enhance child development through song, dance and instruments, and art classes that inspire imagination and self-expression.

Family togetherness and parent participation is an integral part in all Gymboree Play & Music classes. Our intimate setting allows parents to meet and share information with other parents, all while introducing their kids to new experiences and skills. Classes are now available through more than 700 franchised and company-operated centers in the US and more than 40 countries around the world. Parents can find a location near them by visiting www.gymboreeclasses.com.

Content courtesy of Gymboree

Katy, Texas – June 23, 2016 The Ben & Jerry's Texas Churned Ice Cream Truck gave out free ice cream scoops and frozen treats at the Firethorne Little Free Library in Katy.

Wolman Elementary School fifth grader, Addison Smith, arrived with 13 children's books to donate to the Firethorne reading outpost.

Among others attending the Ben & Jerry's ice cream give-away were members of Hike It Baby Moms, a group of mothers who exercise together when walking their babies and toddlers in strollers on Firethorne's hike and bike trails.

Firethorne is the first master-planned community in the Katy/Fulshear area to house a Little Free Library. Its two Little Free Libraries offer 50 titles – hard and softbound – for children from birth through middle school. Open on the honor system 24/7, the mini- libraries are located by the main playground next to the Firethorne Community Center.

Content Courtesy of Firethorne

Katy, Texas – June 20, 2016 The greatest and most flavorful summertime festivals all over the state

If you are looking for something new and adventurous to do with your family this summer, look no further. Katy Magazine has compiled a list of the most fun festivals in Texas, ranging from music festivals to food festivals and everything in between.

Watermelon Thump Luling June 23 – 26 watermelonthump.com The watermelon thump auction has been going on for years and it continues to grow each year. Come out and take part in the watermelon eating contest or the watermelon seed spitting contest. There will also be a parade, music, a car show, and the largest melon competition.

Vino & Pasta Fredericksburg June 24 wineroad290.com This event is meant to help you find a perfect pairing of wine and pasta. You will navigate your way through the hill country stopping at 15 wineries along the way, which, along with a top restaurant chef, will serve you their best plate of pasta and a glass of wine.

Tomato Round-Up Dripping Springs June 25 destinationdrippingsprings.com A panel of distinguished community members and tomato enthusiasts will judge the tastiest, prettiest, biggest, and most unusual tomatoes. Attendees can join in the tasting and judging fun too! It's sure to be a family fun day with good food, live music, face painting, a park playscape for kiddos, and activities at the Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead and Museum.

Hill Country Food Truck Festival Luckenbach June 25 luckenbachtexas.com Come out and sample what the hill country's best food trucks have to offer. While you’re chowing down, listen to some great country music and watch your kids dance their hearts out. Proceeds from the festival benefit the Texas Center for Wine and Culinary Arts.

Art Festival Rockport July 2 – 3 rockportartcenter.com This family-friendly festival highlights master crafts and fine art. The show features more than 120 artists, live music, food, an air conditioned party tent, and kids’ activities.

Harvest Grape Stomp Brenham July 2 – Aug. 14 visitbrenhamtexas.com If you have ever wanted to stomp grapes like Lucy and Ethel, here's your chance! Two stomp times are offered each weekend for seven weeks. After working up an appetite, head into town and choose food from homestyle to Chinese, and you can't forget to end it with Blue Bell ice cream.

Parker County Peach Festival Weatherford July 9 parkercountypeachfestival.org This festival features everything peach – ice cream, cobbler, soda, and you can even buy baskets of home-grown peaches to take with you. There will be three stages showcasing different forms of entertainment, and one of the stages is just for kids. If you are a bike enthusiast, take part in the peach pedal bike ride, which is a 65-mile ride before the start of the festival.

Watermelon Festival Hempstead July 15 – 16 Hempsteadtxchamber.com Watermelon is the ultimate summer fruit and the city of Hempstead holds it in high regard. The festival kicks off with the watermelon parade and then a barbecue cook-off, art vendors, and an auction. There will also be two street dances with three bands performing. Cheeseburger Festival Friona July 16 frionachamber.com Friona is the official cheeseburger capital of Texas by resolution of the 80th legislature of the State of Texas. With that title, you know these cheeseburgers are going to be delicious. The festival is a cook-off between at least 20 teams that will prepare at least 200 burgers a piece for the crowds and judges. You will also be able to see a car and motorcycle show, vendors, and games. You may even want be a contestant in the cheeseburger eating contest.

The Great Texas Mosquito Festival Clute July 28 – 30 mosquitofestival.com Many have said that the mosquito should be the state bird of Texas, and the city of Clute took that to heart. This festival has grown throughout the years and has been named as one of the best festivals around. Bring your family out to enjoy the barbecue and fajita cook-off, mosquito calling contests, and the carnival. The musical entertainment includes Roger Creager and the Spazmatics.

Plaza Classic Film Festival El Paso Aug. 4 – 14 plazaclassic.com Established in 2008, this event has gained a reputation as one of the premier showcases for local filmmakers wanting to display their works for an audience that has grown to include free concerts and collaborative exhibits. If you attend this event, you may run into a celebrity or two since the festival has sparked the interest of stars like Al Pacino and Debbie Reynolds.

Ice Cream Festival Austin Aug. 13 austinicecreamfestival.com Scream for ice cream as you enjoy live entertainment, contests, and games. The festival benefits many local charities and organizations. Bring yourself, friends, family, or even your pet. KM

Written by Tanya Erickson

Just Opened

9Rounds Fitness 1806 Avenue D 281-371-0080

Apex Urgent Care 6111 N. Fry Rd. 832-427-6015

Ashiana Indian Restaurant 829 S. Mason Rd. 281-647-6111

Beckendorff Farms Wedding and Event Venue 28533 Morton Rd. 713-725-6207

Bingle Veterinary Clinic 5215 FM 1463 713-468-1676

Clarity Eye Care 28818 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 832-913-1092

Chowpatty Express 1420 S. Mason Rd. 832-437-5578

Edward Jones Financial Advisor 814 East Ave. 281-391-6137

Flavors Fusion Patisserie & Eatery 1560 S. Mason Rd. 832-913-3292

Glass Doctor of Katy 5150 Franz Rd. 281-712-2520

Goin’ Postal 21927 Katy Fwy. 832-437-3203

Grand Imperial Chinese Restaurant 27131 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 832-437-7279

Hungry Howie's Pizza 6133 N. Fry Rd. 281-345-2500

Katy City Hall (New) 910 Avenue C 281-391-4800

Keemat Grocers 2133 S. Mason Rd. 713-781-2892

Kiddie Academy of Grand Harbor 24404 Kingsland Blvd. 832-870-7017

Krav Maga 20702 Katy Fwy. 844-732-5572

Lynd at Greenhouse Apartments 2040 Greenhouse Rd. 877-862-9055

Mamma Mia Pizzeria 23144 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 281-712-2222

McAlister's Deli 21768 Katy Fwy.

My Place Early Learning Center 24034 Cinco Village Center Blvd. 281-392-5900

Restless Palate 2643 Commercial Center Blvd. 281-574-7431

Springtime Pediatrics 23530 Kingsland Blvd. 832-844-1470

Star Learning 5300 Ranch Point Dr. 832-999-4921

The Stretch Factor 24210 Westheimer Pkwy. 832-919-5150

Tuth Dental 2020 S. Fry Rd. 281-0717-4928

Woodlands Elite Cheer Company 24940 Katy Ranch Rd. 281-395-9235

Yen Teppanyaki & Sushi Steakhouse 6630 FM 1463 281-665-3917

Coming Soon 9Rounds Fitness Mason Rd. and Highland Knolls

Dr. FM 1963 and Spring Green Blvd.

Hacienda Mexican Restaurant Shoppes at Cross Creek II

Haven at Highland Knolls Apartments Highland Knolls Dr.

Jax Burgers Fries & Shakes 20680 Westheimer Pkwy.

JINYA Ramen Bar Mason Creek Corporate

La Argentina Gelato & Coffee 3750 S. Mason Rd.

Lowe's The Shoppes at Cinco Ranch Spring 2017

MidiCi The Neapolitan Pizza Company Mason Creek Corporate

My Place Early Learning Center 2212 Katy Flewellen Rd. 281-396-4734

Sherwin Williams Shoppes at Firethorne

Smoothie King Stableside and Falcon Landing Blvd. December 2016

Tom+Chee 21788 Katy Fwy. September 2016

Whiskey Cake Kitchen and Bar N. Katy Fwy. Fall 2016

Whataburger Shoppes at Firethorne

YMCA W. of Pin Oak Rd. & IH-10 Late 2016 Send your new-to-Katy items to [email protected]

Please confirm dates and locations with individual businesses as details may have changed since time of print.

Katy, Texas – June 13, 2016 With all of the coverage in the news about the Zika virus lately, it is understandable that parents have questions. Here are the facts you need to know about this virus.

What is Zika? Zika is a virus that can cause the following symptoms:

Treatment for Zika virus infection is supportive only, consisting of rest and fluids for hydration. One can treat the symptoms of the virus with acetaminophen (Tylenol) and antihistamines, but aspirin is not recommended due to the risk of Reye's syndrome in children. Also, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) or Aleve are not currently recommended as a first line treatment, except if by the direction of your physician.

Symptoms usually clear up in less than a week, are mild and rarely require hospitalization. Only 1 in 5 (20 percent) of those infected will have symptoms. The odds are, you will never even know if you were infected.

Should a child infected by the Zika virus be excluded from school/child care? The Zika virus does not spread from casual contact with others. As with all illnesses, children should remain out of school/child care if they have a fever.

The greatest risk of Zika virus infection is to pregnant women. In February 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Zika virus a public health emergency. Federal health officials have confirmed that the Zika virus can cause microcephaly (babies born with a small head) and other brain abnormalities in infants. Leaders at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say that while many questions remain, they hope this finding will help improve communication and prevention efforts as they continue to study the virus. ?

It is important to note, that there have been no local transmissions of the Zika virus so far.

How does Zika spread? Mosquitos.

Mosquitoes can carry Zika from person-to-person. If a pregnant woman is infected, the Zika virus can be transmitted to her baby while she is pregnant or around the time of birth. Mosquitoes that spread Zika virus bite both indoors and outdoors, mostly during the daytime. Some cases of the Zika virus have been confirmed in the United States, although to date, these cases have all occurred in individuals who had recently returned from areas where the virus is active.

As the weather becomes warmer, more mosquitos will circulate and there is concern that we will soon start to see cases developing within the United States, as well as locally. Parents should take steps to protect their children and themselves from mosquito bites, and make sure that anyone else who cares for their children do the same.

Travel warning Until more is known about the Zika virus, the CDC has specific warnings for women and women trying to become pregnant.

What parents can do Protect your family from mosquito bites. The best way to prevent getting infected with the Zika virus in areas where it is found is to take the following steps to avoid mosquito bites:

Again, it is important to understand that while the risk to your child of any problems from infection remains quite low, an infected individual may serve as a source of infection if bitten by a mosquito capable of carrying the virus. As a parent, you can reduce the risk to all of us by protecting yourself and your children from mosquito bites.

Content Courtesy of Texas Children's Hospital

Katy, Texas – June 6, 2016 We’re dog gone excited that summer is finally here! As the weather continues to heat up, follow these tips to ensure a healthy and happy summer for your pup.

Keep water fresh. Do leave out water for your pet, but don't let it sit outside all day as the high heat can cause bacteria to grow. Metal water bowls can heat the water even faster.

Use sunscreen. While you’re slathering sunscreen on yourself, don't forget about your pup! Dogs with light skin and hair are more susceptible to burns. Not all pet-specific sunscreens are good for your dog – find a natural, human-safe sunscreen without zinc oxide.

Check sidewalks. Burns on pads of dogs’ feet are common in the summertime. Check the heat of the sidewalk with your hand before walks – if it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your hound!

Avoid the heat of the day. Make sure to exercise your dog outdoors during the summer, but don't do it during the hottest part of the day to keep you both safe.

Lookout for signs of heatstroke. Excessive panting, staring, anxious facial expressions, vomiting, collapsing and unresponsiveness could indicate heatstroke. If you notice these symptoms, immediately wrap your dog with cool, water-soaked towels and take them to the vet.

Is your pup is lonely at home during the dog days of summer? Bring them to Camp to splash in our pup pools and and play with fur-iends in our climate-controlled play yards. Visit campbowwow.com/katy

Content Courtesy of Camp Bow Wow

Katy, Texas – May 18, 2016 The new Katy master-planned community of Cane Island will present its Summer Concert Series every Friday night in June on the shady lawn of the community's Amenity Village where families can enjoy blues, jazz, and classic rock, free kids activities and events in the Cane Island conservatory.

Country music sensation Cooper Wade kicks off the concert series on June 3 followed by saxophonist and vocalist David Caceres on June 10, the zydeco and blues sounds of Bourbon Street on June 17, and the classic rock sounds of the Grateful Geezers on June 24. Each free concert starts at 7 p.m. with the Cane Island amenity lawn opening for activities at 6:30 p.m. The summer concert is open to the public. Lawn chairs are welcome.

As part of each summer concert, guests can purchase tickets for wine tastings, "Bits and Bites" special culinary presentations and more inside the Cane Island conservatory. Snacks also will be available in the Cane Island outdoor café.

To reach Cane Island from I-10, take the new Cane Island Parkway exit, head north on the parkway and follow the temporary detour to Cane Island.

Cane Island offers new homes from the $200's to the millions, including those in gated sections and on cul-de-sac homesites from Coventry Homes, Toll Brothers, Ryland Homes, Shea Homes, David Weekley Homes, Perry Homes and Trendmaker Homes. It also offers a new custom home neighborhood, The Estates at Cane Island.

Content courtesy of Cane Island

Katy, Texas – April 28, 2016 Suga Art Gallery in Houston will open a new exhibition featuring internationally renowned Indonesian abstract artist HANAFI and his protege Nubia Gala, a Colombian abstract artist living in the Houston area. The show is titled Mentor and Protege Converge, East to West and will run from May 21 through June 3, with an reception on May 28 from 5-8 p.m.

HANAFI is an important figure in the art world. In Indonesia, he was among the ten best in the Phillip Morris Indonesia Art Awards in 1997 and a finalist in the Indofood Art Awards in 2002 and 2003. He has held exhibitions at the Saathchi Gallerie in London and at the Museum of Girona in Spain. His work has also been exhibited in Canada, Japan and Singapore. He has participated in over 80 art exhibitions including the National Gallery of Art in Jakarta which was attended by 8,000 people this March. This will be his first visit to the U.S.

HANAFI and his protege, Nubia Gala, bring their passion for creating abstraction through their own unique use of color, shape, and form. HANAFI's abstract paintings are characterized by his minimalistic, elegant muted color palette, the use of light brown, gold, blue, grey and white infused with the luminosity of natural light. Gala generates surface interest in her paintings by the use of multiple layers of colors and textures, making their work distinctly different.

Nubia Gala met her mentor, HANAFI in Indonesia in 2003. "I was surrounded by canvases that seemed larger than life," Gala said, "I was astounded by the sheer size of the studio he had designed and its architectural concept." Gala was struck by HANAFI’S generosity and willingness to share his work space and tools. "It was an extraordinary opportunity that opened my eyes to other forms of artistic expression," Gala said, "that experience allowed me to find my way back to painting abstracts again after years of figurative work.

Nubia Gala went on to experience success in her own artistic career and to become a mentor to fellow artists beginning their journeys. She has been represented by galleries in California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and Tennessee. She was featured in the L.A. Modern and Contemporary Art Fair and chosen to exhibit in the Latin American Pavillion At Red Dot Art Fair during the Miami Art Basel week. She participated in the John Palmer Gallery's mentorship ESCAPISTS program. In Houston, Gala was recognized as the Hispanic Artist of the Year for 2015 by the Sucesos Newspaper and received the award Colombian Pride Art and Culture by B.E.C.A. Her art is displayed in a variety of public and diplomatic venues and she was commissioned to create a 30 foot painting for the Houston Community College Campus.

During HANAFI's visit to Houston, he will also take part in a cultural exchange organized by Nubia Gala and sponsored by the General Consulates of Indonesia and Colombia. The event will take place on May 19 and will feature a live painting performance on stage accompanied by award winning Colombian Pianist Dr. Christian Restrepo.

Suga Art Gallery takes pride in expanding culture and enriching the connection of nations through the arts, bringing together artists from different Latin American countries. "I am thrilled to help bring HANAFI to the U.S.," Gala said, "and to showcase our work side by side at SUGA Gallery is amazing, it's like coming full circle."

For more about Katy artist Nubia Siebert read her article from Katy Magazine: Color on Canvas Content courtesy of Suga Art Gallery

DEFINITION OF JOY: (NOUN) A SETTLED STATE OF CONTENTENTMENT, CONFIDENCE, AND HOPE

Your kids are arguing, the house is a mess, and you have to get everyone fed and make sure homework is finished before heading to evening extracurricular activities. Oh, and don't forget to get that laundry out of the dryer before it wrinkles. If you’re like most Katy families, life can get so busy, it's sometimes a struggle to and joy in everyday things. Here are 25 ways to practice seeking joy in every little moment and become a happier and healthier you.

1. Practice Daily Gratitude From your first thought in the morning to your last one in the evening, always look for things you’re grateful for.

2. Redirect Your thoughts Our moods go where our thoughts lead so each time your mind starts heading in a negative direction, practice redirecting it to something positive.

3. Spend Time Outdoors Studies show that being in nature revives us and positively aspects our minds. Plus, it gives us a healthy dose of oxygen and vitamin D.

4. Crank up the Music Listening to your favorite music lifts your mood and relieves stress because it releases serotonin (one of the hormones that contribute to happiness).

5. Accept Yourself There will always be someone smarter, richer, more attractive, or with more accomplished children than yours. Make a decision to stop comparing and just accept and love yourself.

6. Choose a Good Attitude If you’re in a bad mood, it's most likely because you are dwelling on something that upset or hurt you. Refocus on something else and let it go.

7. Be Tolerant of Others Whether it's the purple-haired check-out clerk, a street person, or your bragging neighbor, understand that every person is on their own life journey which is always different from yours.

8. Get Inspired Read books or go to seminars on something that really interests you. Whether you want to be a better parent, learn a new skill, or grow spiritually, there are a lot of ways to self-improve.

9. Come from Love In all difficult interactions you have with your spouse, children, their teachers, or even a fast food worker, make sure you are coming from a place of love in the way that you treat them.

10. Help Someone Getting out of your own head and helping someone else is a great mood booster. Bring soup to your sick neighbor, give a blanket to a homeless person, or just visit a friend who is hurting.

11. Let Go of Grudges If you are hurt, let the person know in a calm way so they have an opportunity to apologize or gain an understanding. Then let it go. Grudges and unwillingness to forgive are always barriers to joy.

12. Energy Creates Energy Do some kind of physical activity for 20 to 30 minutes a day. Not only does exercise create those happy endorphins, it can really boost your confidence.

13. Have Quiet Time If you can take even 10 to 15 minutes to meditate, pray, or even just sit quietly, studies show this helps you be more at peace and lowers stress. Even if you have to go in the bathroom or closet, do it.

14. Stay in Peace Instead of screaming at the driver who cut you off, just take a deep breath and say nothing. In all stressful circumstances, you can choose to remain calm.

15. Live in the Moment Put down the technology or remote and savor the moment. Enjoy your child's laughter, listen fully to your spouse, or stop to stare at a beautiful sunset.

16. Let Go of Toxic People Love those bitter or angry family members from a distance or they could infect you with negativity and hate.

17. Be a Visionary Write down or create a poster with everything you wish to accomplish in life and look at it daily or weekly. Dream big and put down that beautiful house, car, and vacation. You have to see it to achieve it!

18. Simplify Your Home Clutter adds stress to your life and costs you more time searching for items. If you haven't used something in a year, it's time to give it away.

19. Have Me Time Find time to be alone. Solitude actually energizes your soul and helps you be a better parent and spouse.

20. Use Encouraging Words Words are powerful and can be used to help or harm someone. Are you speaking words of love to your family and friends or causing pain and worry? Don't say anything out loud that you don't want to come true.

21. Stop Worrying Most strife is brought on by worry and fear. Quit freting and obsessing about all those little things you have absolutely no control over and just enjoy today.

22. Give Three Compliments When was the last time you told your child's teacher what a great job she is doing? Never be too busy to let people know how awesome they are.

23. Put Things in Perspective When something disappointing happens, don't overreact. So what if your son got a B on his science project – at least he's not in the hospital.

24. Keep Growing You are never too old to try a new hobby, learn a new technology, or admit you’ve made a mistake and self-correct.

25. Reach out for Help When you feel down, see a counselor or talk to a pastor or loved one. Whether it's your marriage, parenting struggles, an addiction, or depression, there is never shame in getting help. KM

Katy, Texas – April 28, 2016 The end of March and the beginning of April marked the two year anniversary for Flaunt Salon. Co-owners and hair stylists Mary Wesley and Oscar Aguilera are more than happy to call Flaunt Salon a blossoming business serving the area. "Any new business goes through so much, but we have always wanted our own hair salon and we were willing to do the work to make it happen," explains Oscar.

"It took some things to fall in place. A little bonding of both of our visions and a little luck to have the right location available," says Mary. All the stylists calling Flaunt Salon their home agree that Flaunt has a "Vegas" style look. Customers appreciate the surroundings in the salon and the atmosphere.

When asking Mary's client, Ms. Dianne Galaz what she thinks about the place she said, "It's stylish, it's clean, and I personally love coming because the place makes me feel like a star." After Ms. Ashlee Logue visited Flaunt for the first time she said, "You walk in with the "oh WOW" feeling. The décor is clean, bright, modern, and extremely upscale. It makes you feel just as upscale as your environment. All the stylists are very well put together and you’re greeted with smiles. Mary, the owner is beyond amazing. Her visible sense of style makes you feel like you know you’re going to leave her salon with a one-of-a-kind look," says Logue.

The Flaunt Salon team consists of six independent stylists: Erica Galvan, Kat Hurtubise, Amy Majewski, Kathy Saban, Valerie Spivey, and Mary Wesley. The owners and stylists stride to keep the salon clean and as new looking as the day it was opened.

Flaunt Salon is located at 2944 South Mason Rd. at the corner of Cinco Ranch Blvd. Hours are Tuesday – Saturday and each stylist is responsible for their schedule. Visit FlauntSalon.com.

Katy, Texas – April 25, 2016

Faithbridge United Methodist Church Helping Hands- program will send volunteers to help with clean up.

Woodlands Church-Coordinating volunteers to go into subdivisions and help with clean up.

Prince of Peace Catholic Community-Streams of Mercy program working to help in the Houston Area

Faith Assembly Church Convoy of Hope-helping with home debris removal and repairs

Harris County has also started a flood recovery resource page, that includes volunteer opportunities and resources for recovery. You can also visit the Texas Gulf Coast VOAD for more resources, including info on 211 for even more information and disaster related resources.

While it is anticipated that a Federal Disaster Declaration will be made for our community, until such a declaration is made, resource information will be limited. When and if a declaration is made, the Harris County Recovery Network will provide current information on how to register with FEMA and when, where and how to receive recovery services. At this time, it is important that you register your home at www.readyharris.org.

For those immediately displaced and in need of finding available housing, go to Harris County Housing and Community Resource Center. For those wishing to donate funds to assist residents in the recovery process, go to www.houstonfloodrecovery.org. Landlords with available rental property interested in assisting our displaced residents are encouraged to call 877-428-8844. Meanwhile, take pictures, save receipts and register your flood damaged home at www.readyharris.org.

Roadways in the vicinity of the Addicks/Barker reservoir area, including State Highway 6 from Clay Road to Park Road may be underwater for up to six weeks. Water continues to recede on roads and side streets but many are draining slowly.

The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences is now confirming seven fatalities related to the storm. The Harris County Sheriff's Office reports the following:

Local fire service reports:

The National Weather Service reports additional rainfall is likely through Friday with skies clearing at the weekend. Partners should closely monitor forecasts.

Content Courtesy of Mike Schofield – State Representative

Katy, Texas – April 20, 2016 Firethorne, a 1,400-acre master-planned community in Katy/Fulshear, was named after the firethorn (pyracantha) plant, a resilient evergreen indigenous to the Texas prairie.

Here's the backstory The name came from the PGA Masters golf tournament. According to Firethorne General Manager Wayne Meyer, Firethorne got its name thanks to his business partner, Robert White, going to the Masters in 2004. It was 12 years – the 68th Masters held April 8-11.

According to Meyer, the Jefferson Development team was getting everything in place to start the underground utilities on its new project on FM 1463 in Katy/Fulshear. What wasn't in place, though, was the name. "We wanted a name that was one word that was a strong name that we could do a lot of things with it." In the same time frame, White had tickets to the Masters golf tournament and asked Meyer to join him. Meyer, engrossed in the community's early development phase, turned down the offer, to which White responded, "Well, do you mind if I go?" Little did either man know that White's golfing adventure would inspire the naming of their latest real estate venture.

The next thing Meyer remembers is his getting a phone call from White from Augusta. "I’m standing on it," he stated.

"Standing on what? " asked Meyer.

"I’m standing on the name. It's Firethorn."

White was standing on hole No. 15 on the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club. Each of the 18 holes of the Augusta National Club is named. Hole No. 15 is named "Firethorn."

White and Meyer agreed to name their new development "Firethorne" (with an ‘e’ added on the end) and the rest is history, including Gerald Freed's advertising agency developing the Firethorne logo and advertising campaign. The name has proven successful. To date, Firethorne has closed on 2,676 homes. The community will be built out at 3,400 homes.

To tour Firethorne, take I-10 West and exit Pin Oak to FM 1463, visit www.firethorne.info, or call 281-693-1011.

Katy Texas – April 15, 2016

Just Opened Aloha Mind Math 610 Katy Fort Bend Rd., #210 281-809-4889

The Avalon Senior Apartments 21751 Cimarron Pkwy. 832-321-4704

Blackburn Family Orthodontics 5215 FM 1463, #700 281-769-3095

BonChon Chicken 24437 Katy Fwy. 212-273-1111

CycleBar Katy 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 281-395-5533

Edible Arrangements 2240E S. Mason Rd. 832-913-6666

El Canton Firewood Pizzeria 981 S. Mason Rd. 281-646-9677

Elevation Burger 6825 S. Fry Rd. 281-396-4797

Express Rolls 21953 Katy Fwy. 832-913-3770

Fitness Connection 333 S. Mason Rd. 281-647-3000

Iron Tribe Fitness 9555 Spring Green Blvd. 281-303-5671

Katy Star Dental 1679 FM 1463 281-492-1111

MOD Pizza 6825 S. Fry Rd. 832-437-5524

Pengu Swim School 27020 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 713-688-2400

Peter Chang 1315 W. Grand Pkwy. S. 281-201-6664

Portrait Dental 27131 Cinco Ranch Blvd., #250 281-712-6191

PUSH Fitness 1025 S. Mason Rd. 832-275-8006

Sam's Strings – Violin Bows and Accessories 411 Park Grove Dr. 713-257-0459

Signs Now 21733 Provincial Blvd. 281-829-1400

Snow Bubble Hut 406 W. Grand Pkwy. S. 281-692-7495

Vibe Fitness 1800 S. Mason Rd. 832-419-5397

WellPet Center Veterinary Hospital 5910 FM 1463 281-394-2355

Coming Soon

1000 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza Shoppes at Park West October 2016

Berryhill Baja Grill Northwest Corner of Gaston Rd. and Falcon Landing Blvd.

Buc-ee's IH-10 and Cane Island Pkwy. March 2017

Cajun Cuisine 7035 W. Grand Pkwy. S.

Centenary Coffee Cinco Ranch Blvd. at FM 1463 Summer 2016

Family Life Assembly of God 24911 Roesner Rd. Late 2016

Hit King Baseball Academy Late 2016

IHOP Bella Terra 22610 Bellaire Blvd.

Jenni's Noodle House Vietnamese and Thai Restaurant Stableside at Falcon Landing Blvd.

Kroger N.W. corner of Gaston Rd. and Falcon Landing Blvd.

Local Table 22762 Westheimer Pkwy.

Mama Fu's Asian House 28818 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Montanari Products – Pasta Express and Market Cinco Ranch Estates Mid 2016

Panera Bread Katy Mills 25546 Kingsland Blvd.

Raising Cane's Stableside and Falcon Landing Blvd.

Senorita Martha's Tamales The Shops at Firethorne

Sertinos Café 25707 Westheimer Pkwy.

Sherwin Williams Paints The Shops at Firethorne

Streamsong Apartments 21077 Kingsland Blvd.

TaD's Steak and Seafood 1425 FM 1463 Taquito Joe's Shops Cross Creek I 6430 FM 1463

Yen Sushi and Hibachi Shoppes at Cross Creek 6630 FM 1463

Please confirm dates and locations with individual businesses.

Send your new-to-Katy items to [email protected]

Katy, Texas – April 12, 2016 Katy birthday party venues make planning and celebrating your cuties a fun and enjoyable experience. Here's a list of a few great vendors in the Katy area to help you get a head start on your birthday party planning.

Written by Tanya Erickson

Bricks 4 Kids 832-289-3957 | bricks4kidz.com Packages start at $225 Ceramics by Tess 402 W. Grand Pkwy. 281-392-3161 | ceramicsbytess.com Packages start at $170

Chuck E. Cheese 2002 Gulfmont Dr. 281-644-4950 | chuckecheese.com Prices range from $12 to $22.99 per child

City of Katy Park 5720 Franz Rd. 281-391-4840 | cityoaty.com Available for daily rentals

Connolly Dance Arts 22760 Westheimer Pkwy., #300 281-693-1232 | connollydancearts.com Packages start at $250

The Dancer's Closet Katy 22764 Westheimer Pkwy., #620 281-693-2248 | thedancersclosetkaty.com Packages start at $350

Frozen Ropes 20000 Park Row Dr. 281-578-9790 | frozenropes.com Rugged warrior challenge package is $325

Giggles and Fun 20117 Park Row Dr. 281-492-2000 | gigglesandfun.com Packages start at $100

Gossip Boutique Spa 7417 W. Grand Pkwy. S. 832-222-9084 | gossipboutiquespa.com Prices start at $15 and a free nail design is included See ad on page 71

Gymboree Play & Music 1520 S. Mason Rd. 713-953-0444 | gymboreeclasses.com Packages start at $290

Inflatable Katy 2482 S. Mason Rd. 281-574-3033 | inatablekaty.com Packages start at $350

Jump Street 5000 Katy Mills Cir. 281-347-3911 | gotjump.com/katy Packages start at $100

Katy Family YMCA 22807 Westheimer Pkwy. 281-392-5055 | ymcahouston.org/katy Packages start at $250

Katy Kips Gymnastics Club 923 S. Mason Rd. 281-578-5477 | katykips.com Packages start at $150

Lifetime Fitness 23211 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 281-693-3434 | lifetimetness.com Packages start at $225

The Little Gym of Katy 23010A Highland Knolls Dr. 281-347-1400 | tlgkatytx.com Packages start at $249

Mason Road Skate Center 535 Applewhite Dr. 281-392-9555 | masonroadskatecenter.com Packages start at $144.95

My Gym Katy 414 W. Grand Pkwy. S. 832-437-8940 | mygym.com/katy Packages start at $200

Multiplicity 1306 Avenue A 832-437-2442 | multiplicity.co Packages range from $275 to $375

Pointe of Grace Dance Studio 3760 S. Mason Rd. 832-623-4365 pointeofgracedancestudio.com Packages start at $350

Pump It Up 923 S. Mason Rd. 281-829-5777 | pumpitupparty.com/katy-tx Packages start at $199

Safari Kids Learning Center 24936 Katy Ranch Rd. 832-583-9700 | safarikidslearningcenter.com Packages start at $9.99 per person

Santikos Palladium AVX 7301 Grand Pkwy. 281-239-4200 | santikos.com Packages start at $10 per person

Schakolad Chocolate Factory 2020 S. Fry Rd. 832-321-3580 | schakolad.com Average price is $25 per person

Smith Ranch 25440 Beckendor Rd. 281-371-3318 | smithranchkaty.com Packages start at $325

Splatterhouse Paintball 1004 FM 359 S. Brookshire 713-515-1238 | splatterhousepaintball.com Packages start at $210

The Storybook Cottage 5814 1st St. 281-574-5707 | thestorybookcottage.com Packages start at $260

Sweet Three Nail Lounge 5131 S. Fry Rd., #700 281-492-8333 | sweetthreenaillounge.com Average price is $25 per person

Tiger-Rock Martial Arts of Katy 625 S. Mason Rd. 281-829-9300 | katytkd.com Packages start at $275

Tilt Studio 5000 Katy Mills Cir. 281-644-2340 | tiltstudio.com Packages start at $249

Topgolf 1030 Memorial Brook Blvd. 281-406-3176 | topgolf.com Average price is $25 per person

Westwood Gymnastics & Dance 23333 Taswell Dr. 281-347-2000 | westwoodgym.com Packages start at $18

Katy, Texas – March 31, 2016 Husband and wife teams who share a love of education, make the grade both in and out of the classroom as they nurture their marriages and Katy students.

Written by Tassie Hewitt | Photography by Anetrius Wallace Jim & Crystal Janczak Married: June 21, 1986 He: Morton Ranch High School head baseball coach She: Tompkins High School principal's secretary

A Home Run Crystal and Jim Janczak met as students at Sam Houston State University. Jim, who was on the baseball team, did not try to conceal his passion for the sport. "On our first date, he taught me how to tamp a pitcher's mound," says Crystal. "I knew from the beginning what I was in for and loved every moment." Years later, baseball still plays a big part in their lives. Jim coached and taught English at Memorial Parkway Junior High School, then coached for 15 years at Taylor High School, and today is the only original coach remaining at Morton Ranch High School since it opened in 2004. The couple have two children, Jaime and Christina, who are both graduates of Texas State University. Crystal and Jim look forward to anniversary dinners at Taste of Texas, eating out at Carrabba's, and watching the Astros or Houston Texans play. They attend school athletic events together and have worn almost every Katy ISD school color in their education careers. Their advice to couples is simple. "Enjoy it all," says Crystal. "We both love our jobs. We enjoy seeing students succeed at their dreams.

Rob & Aysha Hall Married: June 7, 2000 He: WoodCreek Junior High art teacher She: Katy Elementary School art teacher ArtisticLove A shared love of art brought Aysha and Rob Hall together. They met at Iowa State University where they both pursued art majors. They married at a gallery surrounded by their own artwork and now reap the rewards of a common career. "We’re each other's sounding board," says Rob, who says the couple often discusses project ideas. "We can really connect with the subject matter. We understand what the other is going through." Aysha adds, "Being a teacher is one of the hardest, but most rewarding careers. If you don't experience what it's like to be in a classroom for eight hours, it's hard for someone to completely comprehend." "Watching my students grow, stick with it, work hard, and then reaping the rewards of their success is really good to see," says Rob. His students previously placed first and second in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo art competition. "What I love is the excitement of the kids," says Aysha. "It melts my heart when kids say, ‘I love you, Mrs. Hall,’ and I tell them I love them right back." The couple has two daughters: Emma, a third-grader at Katy Elementary School and Graycen, a seventh-grader at Katy Junior High School.

Russell & Cindie Faldyn Married: July 30, 1988 He: Katy ISD community education and elections director She: Exley Elementary School math and science instructional coach

Working Together Russell and Cindie Faldyn met at Sam Houston State University where they were both studying education. Today, the pair has dedicated their lives to the education of Katy students. "It's home to us," says Cindie, who has taught math and science at the elementary level for 25 years. "We love the access to great places and the sense of community that embodies this area. We feel that serving in Katy ISD is truly our ministry in life." The pair's excitement for education has spread to their children as well. Matthew is a student in the PhD program at Louisiana State University and hopes to teach at the university level one day; Kourtney is a graduate of Texas A&M who teaches at Mayde Creek Elementary School; and Makayla is a freshman at Texas A&M. "Having similar careers helps to bind our marriage together," says Cindie. "We truly understand each other's daily strengths and struggles. We are able to walk in each other's shoes, give empathy to one another, and show pride for each other's accomplishments." As much as they have taught others over the years, the couple has learned a lot from each other. Russell says, "Patience, truly listening, respecting each other's opinion, laughing together, and most definitely growing in faith together," is what makes their marriage work.

Fredy & Carrie Sanguinetti Married: January 9, 1993 He: Cinco Ranch High School girls’ soccer coach and teen leadership teacher She: Katy ISD classroom technology designer

Designed to Last Carrie and Fredy Sanguinetti went to the same high school. He voted for her for cheerleader, and she knew him as the cute goalie on the soccer team. They did not date until they were in college when he asked her to the movies. "The Little Mermaid had just premiered, so I accepted with the request we go see it," says Carrie. "When he confessed he liked Disney movies, too, I knew we were destined to be together forever." "I knew I always wanted to be a teacher," adds Fredy. "The blessing is watching students grow up to be a great young man or woman." The couple helps each other both in and out of the classroom. "She is my everything during soccer season," says Fredy. "I cannot begin to tell you how she keeps our family together during this time." No matter how busy they are, they make sure at least one of them is always available for their three children: Arielle, a senior at Full Sail University; Trey, a freshman at Full Sail University; and Roger, an eighth-grader at Cinco Ranch Junior High School. They believe communication and faith in God is the cornerstone of their marriage. Fredy shares, "I try to tell her three things on a daily basis – how much I love her, how beautiful she is, and how much she means to me."

Mark & Kelly Balser Married: August 13, 1988 He: Morton Ranch High School head wrestling coach and U.S. government teacher She: Morton Ranch High School main campus nurse

Forming an A-Team Mark and Kelly Balser met when he was 15 and wrestling for his high school team, and she was 16 and keeping score for hers. They married when they were 18. The couple both came to Morton Ranch High School when it opened in 2004. "A lot of people say they wouldn't want to work with their spouse, but to me it's an asset," says Mark who is the head wrestling coach and U.S. government teacher, while Kelly is the main campus nurse. "This is the best nurse job to have," says Kelly, who graduated from University of Texas at San Antonio. Mark, a graduate of Ball State University, gets to know his students in and outside the classroom. "The sport of wrestling lends itself to a lot of things that helps these children in life," says Mark. "They learn values about hard work, dedication, determination, and commitment." They attribute the success of their marriage to communication and humor. "We discuss everything with each other, no matter how small or large," says Kelly. "When you’re married a long time, there are ups and downs. If you can bring humor into it and see the other's perspective, I think that's the key."

H.C. & Beth Grimet Married: June 15, 1991 He: Katy ISD physical education health and outdoor learning center coordinator She: Katy Elementary School principal

Elementary Sweethearts Beth and H.C. Grimet met in second grade and have been in school together almost ever since. They began dating their sophomore year in high school, attended college at Sam Houston State University, and even went on their first job interview together where they were both hired as teachers at the same elementary school. "The thing that brought us here originally was the legacy and commitment to excellence in education," says Beth. "We’re both passionate about what we do as educators." As principal, Beth enjoys the ability to help make a difference in the lives of students and staff members. H.C. values introducing students to new experiences, such as fishing and other outdoor activities. The two benefit from having similar schedules, which give them time to spend with their children: Conley, a freshman at Katy High School, and Logan, a freshman at Blinn in College Station. The Grimets credit the success of their relationship to communication and a strong sense of family and faith. "We have that commitment to one another that we made all those years ago that we were going to stick it out through good and bad," says Beth. "We’re always there for each other." KM

Katy, Texas – March 25, 2016 The new World Theater at 1012 South Mason Road, is fast becoming the place to be, the place to see and be seen. Actors, singers and dancers have flocked to auditions and look forward to being seen in the upcoming World Theater musical productions. Local artists as well, have had their paintings and drawings seen in the World Theater Art Exhibition Hall. Audiences have already enjoyed "Katy's Got Talent," and "The Golden Buddha Jazz Orchestra." Now Katy residents and beyond, look forward to seeing "Jacque Brel is Alive & Well and Living in Paris."

David Bowie has named Jacques Brel's original album one of his favorite albums of all time. "Jacque Brel" is one of the longest running Off-Broadway shows. Burton Wolfe, the musical's Artistic Director, says, "This is one of my favorite heart-felt musicals because the music and lyrics are filled with passion and are all about the feelings and experiences we all go through in life."

The outstanding "Jacque Brel is Alive & Well and Living in Paris" cast of performers includes: May Delsantos Alidon, Andres Cosme, Meagan Gisler, Mary Lieberman, Matthew Martinez, Dwayne Sepcich Jr., and Stephen Ye. Brenden Winkfield is both performer and choreographer; Laura Bettis is the Music Director, Lawrence Wong is the World Theater Producer and Director of Operations, and Burton Wolfe, the musical's Artistic Director. Performances are scheduled for two weekends: Friday April 8th, Saturday, April 9th, at 8:00 p.m. and Friday, April 15, Saturday, April 16th, 8:00 p.m.

In addition, World Theater Art Gallery is calling for artists to enter their artworks for the "Alive & Well" Art Exhibit. Selected artworks will be displayed at the World Theater Gallery for the month of April. Information for entry can be found at www.worldtheater.us.

Come on down to Katy's new World Theater, "The place to be, the place to see and be seen." Feel free to call 832-552-5115 for future events and information.

Katy, Texas – March 22, 2016 The British International School of Houston welcomes Dr. Siva Kumari, director general of the International Baccalaureate Organization, to Houston to share her insights about developments in education, specifically the increased importance and emphasis colleges and employers are placing on individuals with international mindedness and global competencies. She will detail how an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma offers students a passport to the world's top universities.

Joining Kumari will be a panel of admissions counselors from selective colleges and universities to answer audience questions about the application process. The community is invited to this free discussion and dinner event on Thursday, May 5 from 5-7 p.m. at The Westin Galleria in Memorial City, 945 Gessner Rd., Houston, 77024.

Parents and students interested in learning about the IB Diploma and the British International School of Houston are welcome to join the event by making a reservation at bishouston.org under the "upcoming events" tab or by calling the school at 713.319.5048.

"College readiness is a theme of the utmost importance to the IB," says Dr. Kumari. "An IB education prepares students extremely well to go on to further education in whatever area they choose. As part of our commitment to continually improve student outcomes, we conduct much research into this, which confirms the positive impact of participation in the IB on high school graduation, ACT score and college enrollment."

Andrew Derry, principal of the British International School of Houston, states, "Dr. Kumari will share with the community how the IB Diploma program can make a difference for your child. We have seen the value of the IB program through the success of all of our graduates. I am pleased to share that our wonderful teaching staff has helped our students achieve a 100 percent pass rate on the IB Diploma Program for the past five consecutive years. Additionally, our students’ IB scores are ranked first in Texas, in the top 1% in the U.S. and the top 3% internationally."

Dr. Kumari joined the IB Organization in 2009 as regional director for Asia-Pacific Singapore; she was named chief operating officer in 2010; and director general in 2014. Prior to joining the IB, Kumari was associate provost for K12 Initiatives at Rice University. She accepted this position after serving as associate dean in Continuing Studies at Rice University and adjunct professor in the School of Education. During her professional tenure in the United States she was the recipient of local, regional and national professional and academic awards.

Katy, Texas – March 21, 2016 Flaunt Salon is very excited to announce that Katt Hurtubise is the newest addition to the great stylists that work at Flaunt. Co-owners Mary Wesley and Oscar Aguilera welcomed Katt and offered her the station near the front window where you can see Katt "change lives and create happiness."

"From day one we could tell that Katt was very organized and prepared quickly at her new home," says Oscar. "She should fit right in. Her style and fashion sense is just what our salon is all about. She does do excellent hair as we can all see the results as her clients leave," explains Mary. When Katt was asked what she liked most about the salon, Katt didn't hesistate to say "I love it. I love everything! The style, the flair – it's so clean and nice. I know all my clients will love it, too."

Katt Hurtubise is a graduate of the prestigious Paul Mitchell School of Cosmetology in Houston. She is constantly updating her techniques with classes and continuing education offered by various manufactures. Kat is very proficient in cut and color. She specializes in all things hair and her favorite specialty is hair extensions. She is an independent stylist and welcomes clients to call or text her at 832-552-0822. Katt is also listed at StyleSeat.com, where you can book with her online at www.styleseat.com/KatHurtubise.

Katy, Texas –April 9, 2016 Firethorne resident Meg Glenn is a former English teacher whose life-long passion for instilling the love of reading books into the minds of children has opened a new chapter in her life. Though she officially retired from the Katy ISD classroom in 2013, she now dedicates herself to placing books in the hands of avid young readers as the founder and steward of two Firethorne Little Free Libraries, outposts of an international movement to share literacy on a neighborhood basis.

"When I learned about the Little Free Library, a free neighborhood ‘lend-a-book or give-a-book’ program, I thought this would be a good link to education and reading in our own community," explained Glenn. After extensive research, she presented a proposal to the Firethorne homeowner's association board to fund a Free Little Library. "The board agreed to fund two of these libraries and there is talk of opening a third library for adults," added the former educator, whose 21-year career included teaching reading and English on the elementary, middle school, and high school levels.

Firethorne is the first master-planned community in the Katy/Fulshear area to house a Little Free Library. Its two Little Free Libraries offer 50 titles – hard and softbound – for children from birth through middle school. Open on the honor system 24/7, the mini- libraries are located by the main playground next to the Firethorne Community Center. As the registered steward, Glenn is responsible for the books being "safe, available, age-appropriate, and dry.

The idea behind the Firethorne Little Free Library came to Glenn after she learned how her high school friend established a Little Free Library as a memorial tribute to her late mother in her Nashville. Firethorne's new libraries are officially registered and featured on the nonprofit organization's website map.

One Firethorne neighbor stated in the Free Little Library guest book, "With family visiting from Chicago. We really enjoyed finding the little library. We read ‘What Makes a Monet a Monet’ and ‘A Joyful Noise’ – so fun to read poetry with two voices."

Titles include classics by Dr. Suess, Maurice Sendak, Sandra Boynton, Eric Carle and Margaret Wise Brown's Goodnight Moon in English and Spanish. More advanced readers will enjoy novels like Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson, The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett, Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo, and The Great Gilly Hopkins by Katherine Paterson. Non-fiction books cover subjects ranging from art to reptiles. Children's book donations are welcome, as well.

The Little Free Library took root in Hudson, Wisconsin in the summer of 2010. Now, five and one-half years later, there are more than 36,000 Little Free Libraries worldwide.

Firethorne blends the best nature has to offer: 150 acres devoted to parks and recreational amenities, a 12-acre lake with surrounding greenbelt, hike/bike trails, parks and playgrounds, tennis courts, Fitness Center, resort-style swimming pool, competitive swim center, a Clubhouse available to residents for entertaining and meetings, discovery-rich wildlife observation area and a natural bird habitat. Served by highly acclaimed schools in Katy ISD and Lamar Consolidated ISD, Firethorne combines the vibrancy of West Houston with the small-town charm of Katy/Fulshear. It is located near the crossroads of I-10 West and FM 1463, 10 and 15 miles west, respectively, of the Texas Medical Center-West Campus and Houston's Energy Corridor.

For further information on the Firethorne Little Free Library, go to their Facebook Group Page. For info on Firethorne, go to http://www.firethorne.info, call 281-693-1010 or visit Firethorne.

Content courtesy of Firethorne

Katy, Texas – February 29, 2016 The changes are that are being made to the SAT test are designed to better reflect student readiness for college, and will emphasize critical thinking and problem solving. For instance, students will need to use context clues to understand vocabulary, and they will need to apply language and math skills in questions about science, history and social studies. The math section will focus more closely on the areas deemed most important in college and in career, including algebra, data analysis and problem solving.

When is it changing? The first administration of the redesigned SAT will be in March 2016.

What is the difference between the current and the new redesigned SAT? The redesigned SAT will be more focused on the areas of study that have been shown by current research to matter most in college and career success. Students will be asked to support their answers with evidence, define vocabulary in context, respond to an essay prompt asking them to analyze a writer's argument, and solve multi-step problems addressing math in real-world contexts.

How will the new SAT be scored? Are there now multiple scores? The redesigned SAT will be scored on a 400- to 1600-point scale. The Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Math section will each be scored on a 200- to 800-point scale. Scores for the Essay section will be reported separately. Another important change is the removal of the penalty for guessing. Students will receive points for correct answers, and not be penalized for wrong answers.

College Board will also include an enriched score report, with sub scores. This will provide more insight into student strengths and will help teachers and students identify areas where more focus is needed.

What should my student do to prepare for the redesigned SAT?

Rigorous course work will be the best preparation for the SAT. Students are encouraged to use free College Board resources to get to know the exam and to build on their preparation with targeted review and authentic practice. Free test preparation is also on the way through Khan Academy beginning June 2015. In addition, teacher and parent guides to the redesigned assessments will be available through College Board beginning summer 2015.

Is the PSAT changing? When will the new PSAT be administered? Yes, the PSAT/NMSQT will change together with the SAT and is planned to launch in October 2015. This schedule will allow students to take the redesigned PSAT/NMSQT before the redesigned SAT.

How will this affect National Merit? The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) will continue to use the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) as an initial screen of candidates for the National Merit® Scholarship Program, an academic competition for recognition and scholarships. The PSAT/NMSQT redesign will mirror the redesign of the SAT.

My sophomore is currently involved in the Katy ISD National Merit Review Program. Is my child being prepared for the redesigned PSAT/NMSQT to be administered in October?

The Katy ISD National Merit Review Program uses Learning Systems to deliver the instruction to current sophomores (class of 2017). Learning Systems uses the test specifications from the redesigned SAT to design the instruction for the NMRP offered to sophomores in Katy ISD. Learning Systems is covering the format, structure, scoring and tactics for reading passages, writing/language skills and mathematics (with and without a calculator).

What does Katy ISD recommend for sophomores during this transition?

Katy ISD recommends that students in the CLASS OF 2017 take the redesigned PSAT/NMSQT in fall 2015 and the redesigned SAT in March 2016 or after. Their PSAT/NMSQT score reports will identify areas in need of improvement. In conjunction with Khan Academy personalized practice, students should be prepared for the redesigned SAT. Which test should I take? Both are admissions exams widely accepted by colleges and universities. Here is a description of each exam. If students have spent considerable time specifically preparing for a particular exam, this should be considered. Colleges that have accepted the SAT will most likely accept both the existing and new SAT. The existing SAT is available until early 2016.

Contest Courtesy of Katy ISD

Katy, Texas – February 26, 2016 The Conservatory of Music (in Cinco Ranch & North Katy) inspires local music students to achieve more with the Musical Ladder System®.

Practice. It's not the most fun word ever created and it's definitely not a favorite activity of music students. The Conservatory of Music, however, has helped to solve that age old problem by being the first school in Katy to license the Musical Ladder System®. The music teaching system is being used by music schools across the US and Canada to inspire music students to practice more and enhance their love for music.

Similar to karate belt tests, every 90 days or so students have a test with their private music instructor. When they pass their test, they receive really cool color wristbands with the name of the level they just passed. They also receive a beautiful certificate, and at some levels, a nice trophy.The system has been a great help to Dr. Michael & Berta Guevara, managers of The Conservatory of Music, to help inspire their students. About the system Dr. Guevara says: "All too often, children find the activity of practicing dry and mundane which, in many instances, leads to reduced time spent with their instrument. With the introduction of the Musical Ladder System®, we find that the students are more motivated to practice, as they know that their efforts will be rewarded."

The Musical Ladder System® has also been a big hit with local music students and their parents as evidenced by The Conservatory of Music's Facebook page, which showcases pictures of the students when they pass their achievement tests. Manager Berta Guevara says this about the system and what she has heard and observed:

"The children are enjoying the challenge of the tests. One child, after she was presented with her award and had her photo taken, told me that ‘this was the best day of her life!’ The children are now looking forward to their next tests!"

Parents and students interested in checking out this cutting edge music teaching system can contact The Conservatory of Music at Cinco Ranch (www.CincoRanchMusic.com) or The Conservatory of Music at North Katy (www.KatyMusicLessons.com).

Content Courtesy of The Conservatory of Music

Katy, TX – February 12 Members of the PTA and staff at Roosevelt Alexander Elementary celebrated Bus Driver Appreciation Week by providing bus drivers with cookies, coffee, and food. The bus drivers also received a welcoming entrance with cheers every day.

Here are some surefire ways to tell if you’re a true Katy, Texas mom!

By Katrina Katsarelis, Katy Magazine Editor-in-Chief

1. You’ve taken your family photo at Katy Heritage Park.

2. You got talked into dropping your junior high kid off at the Katy Mills Mall one time and you never did it again.

3. You enrolled your son in youth football before he could read so he would be able to make the high school varsity team.

4. You went crazy at Katy Budget Books and got 15 used books but only spent $4.75.

5. You’ve paid for mediocre but pricey food at Rain Forest Café because your kids love the moving animals.

6. You’ve taken your kids fishing at a local bayou, but find yourself watching for alligators.

7. Your front lawn is proudly decorated with yard signs and your car windows display your kids’ team decals.

8. You’ve sent your kid's photo to Katy Magazine for the Katy Cuties section, Cutest Kids Cover Contest, or other feature.

9. You accidentally said the F word when yet another fundraiser packet came home from your child's school.

10. Your kid has gotten in trouble for not saying yes ma’am or yes sir.

11. Your kids have switched elementary schools 3 times but you still live in the same house.

12. You can't find a good place to eat lunch on Sunday because the church crowd just got out and everything is packed.

Written by Brittany Bluford & Ashley Lancaster

The hardest part about New Year's Eve is deciding where to go. When the clock strikes midnight, make a memory at one of these awesome places.

STAY THE NIGHT

Embassy Suites 1515 Dallas St., Houston All day Embassy Suites is just steps away from Discovery Green, Houston Rockets Toyota Center, and Houston Astros Minute Maid Park. Spend New Year's Eve in a spacious room close to the sparkling downtown attractions. Visit embassysuites3.hilton.com.

Holiday Inn 1112 Eldridge Pkwy., Houston 5 p.m. If you’re exhausted from the concert, reworks, and New Year's Eve party at the Holiday Inn Energy Corridor, skip the ride home and book a room. Room rates are available at a discounted price with the purchase of a ticket. Visit ihg.com.

Hotel Sorella – CityCentre 800 Sorella Ct., Houston 5 p.m. Check in at Hotel Sorella, enjoy live music, a balloon drop, and champagne at the Monnalisa bar party. Call 713-973-1600 for New Year's Eve packages or visit hotelsorella-citycentre.com.

La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa 600 La Torretta Blvd., Montgomery All Day Hang out with your honey at the Energie Lounge for dinner and drinks before the clock strikes midnight. There will be a stunning display of reworks over the lake. Visit latorrettalakeresort.com.

Omni Houston Hotel 13210 Katy Fwy., Houston All Day Enjoy a buffet dinner reception, live entertainment, midnight toast, balloon drop, midnight snacks, a parting gift, drink coupons, and a bottle of sparkling wine. Packages starting at $339. Visit omnihotels.com/hotels/houston-westside/specials/new-years-eve-party.

EVENING OUT

Artisan's Restaurant 3201 Louisiana St., Houston If you haven't tried the French cuisine at Artisan's, New Year's Eve is a great time to explore a new eatery. The restaurant offers reservations from 5 to 10 p.m. for $120 per person. Visit artisansrestaurant.com.

Fireworks Dinner Cruise Kemah Boardwalk Suite G., Kemah 9 p.m. Cruise the night away on Clear Lake and Galveston Bay while enjoying reworks, dining, and dancing. Visit boardwalkfantasea.com.

Perry's Steakhouse & Grille 23501 Cinco ranch Blvd. Perry's Steakhouse & Grille offers diners New Year's Eve entertainment and a set menu. Make a reservation for 5:30 p.m. and earlier for $59.95 per person. Any reservations after 5:30p.m. are $79.95 per person.Visit perryssteakhouse.com.

Ray's Grill 8502 FM 359 S., Fulshear Enjoy fresh seafood, organic vegetables, and more dining options at this popular, unique neighborhood grill. Visit raysgrill.com.

Topgolf Houston 1030 Memorial Brook Blvd., Houston 281-406-3176 9 p.m. Join Topgolf for New Year's Eve celebration from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. with bay reservations starting at $75. They will have a DJ, cocktails, and of course fun and games. For pricing, bay reservations, and general admission prices, visit http://topgolf.com/us/nights/.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY

New Year's Noon Bash Children's Museum of Houston 1500 Binz St., Houston 12 p.m. Head out for this famous celebration of the last day of 2015! There will be tons of games, prizes, entertainment, and a mid-day balloon drop. Visit cmhouston.org.

New Year's Eve Run CityCentre 800 Town and Country Blvd., Houston 7 p.m. CityCentre is known for its restaurants, retail shops, and attractions. On New Year's Eve, fireworks and a DJ are added to the list of attractions. Visit citycentrehouston.com/events.

Sharky's New Year's Eve The Downtown aquarium 410 Bagby St., Houston All Day Celebrate the new year with a buffet, balloon drop, contests, and giveaways for the kids. Reservations are required. Visit aquariumrestaurants.com/downtownaquariumhouston. KM

BRITTANY BLUFORD is a freelance writer who loves to travel locally and internationally.

Katy, Texas – December 30, 2015 Due to the number of recent fire incidents associated with hoverboards, Harris County ESD 48 Fire Department urges hoverboard owners and those considering purchasing one to consider the points below and be aware of potential fire hazards associated with these new and popular devices.

On Monday, December 28th 2015, Deerbrook Mall was evacuated when a hoverboard, still in the original packaging, caught fire and eventually exploded. A mall shopper, Sarah Elizabeth Herbert, caught this video while shopping with her family earlier this week.

There are many different manufacturers of hoverboards, not all are unsafe. The fire issues that are being seen so far are primarily related to the batteries. These batteries, in most cases, are Li-Po(lithium polymer) type. Li-Po batteries use a specific type of charger and have a specific safe operating range. If the batteries are discharged too low or are improperly charged they can become volatile. This, coupled with many counterfeit devices with potentially substandard parts flooding the market, has created a high potential for fire hazards with this innovative new technology. Below we have some things to consider before deciding whether to join the craze or steer clear of one of 2015 most popular purchases.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the National Association of State Fire Marshals (NASFM) recently issued safety tips for the use, care, and maintenance of hoverboards.

Purchasing a hoverboard

Charging a hoverboard

Operating a hoverboard

General hoverboard safety information

Signs of a Problem

If you notice any of these signs, stop using the device right away. Call 9-1-1. If safe to do so, move the hoverboard outside away from anything that can burn.

What Next?

The US Consumer Product Safety Commission is now working nonstop to figure out the actual root causes of these incidents, but they don't have the answers yet. "We want to be able to deliver for the public, but we hope they’ll be able to appreciate that what's going on right now is a very thorough science-based investigation," said CPSC spokesman Scott Wolfson.

We are still waiting to hear what the Consumer Product Safety Commission uncovers. It could be that the organization finds a specific batch of defective batteries or other defective component and issues a recall. The CPSC may push for more voluntary standards like the ones that made laptops and phones safer today. Or, they could push to ban hoverboards altogether considering they recently reported that there have been 22 incidents of fires in at least 17 states (report incidents at http://SaferProducts.gov ) and so far 70 Emergency Room treated injuries related to people riding the devices.

Ultimately, the decision is up to you. We do ask that if you chose to dispose of your hoverboard and you aren't able to return it, please separate the battery from the device. The battery should not be disposed of with household waste. You can safely dispose of it at an approved battery recycling center such as a Batteries Plus or a home improvement big box store. The other portion of the hoverboard may be thrown away with curbside waste.

Content Courtesy of Harris County Emergency Services District #48 Fire/EMS

Katy, Texas – December 28, 2015 It's Tuesday morning. The company holiday party is four days away and your babysitter just backed out. Instead of working on your job, you’re working the phone trying to line up a sitter.

It's Thursday evening. Your fifth-grader has a band concert; your kindergartner has no interest in sitting still for two hours, but who's available to watch her?

When Grandma and Grandpa are out of town and the high school neighbor is busy with her own social life, the options for parents are limited. They can either spend hours on the phone trying to line up a sitter or put their lives on hold (again)!

In a world where you can find a date, order a pizza and binge watch every episode of "Gilmore Girls" all from your smartphone, the solution is just an app away.

The My Sitters™ App from College Sitters connects moms and dads who need help with qualified, reliable sitters who have a passion for watching kids.

Here's how it works:

Mom or Dad downloads the app and sets up a time for an in-home consultation. At that one-time meeting, our Family Placement Manager gets to know the family – how many kids they have, what their interests are, if they have any pets or allergies. This process helps College Sitters match families with the right sitters.

After that meeting, a set of sitters is assigned to the family. Whenever you need one, booking is as easy as sending a text. Mom or Dad can pull up a calendar and scroll through the available babysitters. When they’ve chosen their favorite, they book a date and time right on their phone. Within a very short period of time (sometimes only minutes), they’ll get a confirmation directly from the sitter.

The actual event is just as simple. College Sitters arrive on time and provide their own transportation – no picking them up and dropping them off! Plus, there's no reason to stop at the ATM to get cash. Parents get billed through the app on a biweekly basis.

It's a win-win for the babysitters, too. The initial meeting ensures the home environment is safe for them. They are employees of College Sitters, who get a steady paycheck and on-going training. This means parents can feel confident their kids will be safe and happy while they’re out.

The My Sitters App can't solve every problem for parents. But, at least your sleepless nights will be because of a crying baby and not over the stress of finding a sitter.

Content Courtesy of College Nannies & Tutors

Katy, Texas – December 11, 2015 The holiday season is a special time to spend reminiscing with family about special memories and traditions while creating new ones. For members of a family living with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia, this can often be a difficult time. For the one with memory impairment, the change in routine and sensory overload the holiday season brings can cause stress and take away the ability to enjoy time spent with family and friends. The Orchard Assisted Living & Memory Care in Katy specializes in person-centered care, and this holiday season it is sharing helpful advice about how caregivers and families can create the best environment and situation for loved ones living with dementia.

"For seniors, the holiday season is a special time to connect with family and pass along traditions and memories," said James Stroud, President of The Orchard Assisted Living & Memory Care in Katy. "For those living with memory loss it is still possible to have a special holiday experience. The key is finding ways to still include your loved one in those traditions. For instance, if your mother was always in charge of baking cookies, you could set aside time to make cookies together. This will allow for you to create new memories that include your loved one, while sharing a familiar and pleasant experience."

Stroud recommends bringing the holidays to a loved one living with dementia. Hold a holiday get-together in the individual's or caregiver's home, instead of travelling to another location. If that's not possible, limit the amount of time spent away from the normal environment to no more than two hours. It is also a good idea to carry on traditions in a smaller setting and keep things simple. Watch for signs of discomfort, anger, fatigue, overstimulation or a sense of being overwhelmed, and take the individual home if those signs arise. Patience is the real key to success and knowing that it may take trial and error to determine what will make a loved one feel content.

"It can be upsetting for a family to change the location of Christmas dinner or make adjustments to accommodate a loved one who is living with dementia," said Erica Willis of The Orchard Assisted Living & Memory Care. "Family members who have a preconceived notion about how the day will unfold can forget that when family comes together things don't always go as planned. Especially when a loved one with memory loss isn't able to participate as they once could, it could feel like a letdown. You have to remember that your loved one still deserves the same dignity and respect as anyone else in the family, and you may need to change some traditions or plans to make that individual comfortable."

She also recommends that families should be conscious of providing a secure environment and consistency for their loved ones, especially during meal time. A loved one should be able to enjoy the meal and the time spent together, but a lot of noise and chaos may lead to feelings of stress or concerns about personal safety, as well as a reduction in appetite. With this idea in mind, some families may decide to go over to a loved one's home for a meal instead of bringing him to them.

"Remember that it is important to keep your loved one on his or her routine and schedule. Major shifts and changes can cause stress and agitation," said Stroud. "If your loved one is going to attend holiday celebrations at your home and he or she lives in an assisted living environment, you could consider inviting a caregiver as well. This would provide a sense of consistency and security for your loved one, and the caregiver will know all of the nuances and preferences that can be extremely helpful."

For someone living with dementia, proper nutrition is often a challenge, and during the holiday season this can take on a whole new meaning. The holidays mean large gatherings around the table sharing special foods and indulging when we normally keep our belts a little tighter. While it is okay to loosen your belt, it is also important to consider the dietary needs of loved ones living with memory loss in attendance and ensuring that they are able to enjoy the meal too.

"Even though we are all in need of proper nutrition to remain healthy and strong, for a person living with dementia, having a well-managed diet is a challenge as their cognitive function declines," said Karl Rosenbusch of The Orchard Assisted Living & Memory Care. "Many often struggle with the ability to use eating utensils, become overwhelmed with their food choices and even forget to eat altogether. These challenges can lead to changes in behavior and weight loss, causing more problems for their overall health and well-being. These struggles often become amplified during the holiday season with new settings, people and noises that might cause stress. That is why it's critical for families to think about their loved ones in advance and take extra steps to help family members living with dementia to enjoy the holiday meal."

He stresses that the key is to provide quality meals while emphasizing simplicity, and he suggests that it is important to always keep an open mind. An easy way to accomplish this is by using fresh or natural ingredients to make everything from scratch. That way, the dishes are high quality and taste delicious. By staying away from boxed and canned goods, you can raise the quality of even the most basic holiday dishes. To help maintain a balanced diet, cut down on high amounts of fats, sugars and sodium, which will benefit the entire family."It is also critical to remember that having too many options and choices can seem overwhelming, so instead of having everything presented at once, slow the process down by offering sides first, then meats and so on," said Stroud. "This encourages independence by allowing the person to make choices based on their own preferences, thus allowing them to truly enjoy the meal. Most important, remember to remain flexible; just because the family is having lunch doesn't mean that breakfast isn't an option. You have to keep in mind that your loved ones may not remember that they already had breakfast, so if they want cereal or scrambled eggs, it is more important for them to eat something they choose than to try to make them eat something that doesn't sound appetizing. For many seniors, food is the only thing that they still have any control over. When you can provide them a meal specific to their needs and it tastes outstanding, you give them something special, especially during the holiday season."

Rosenbusch stresses that individuals living with dementia can eat the same foods as everyone else. He is sharing one of his favorite recipes this holiday season. He hopes that the traditional holiday stuffing recipe below will be a delicious side dish for area families to enjoy.

At The Orchard everything goes back to person-centered care, and ensuring that all residents’ needs are met individually can be as easy as spending time with them. Staff members practice this standard by getting to know the residents they care for. Caregivers are encouraged to eat meals with the residents in their care so that they may learn their habits and preferences, allowing for the opportunity to understand the residents and their wants when they cannot express their needs themselves."Our goal is to be a resource for families living in Katy and the surrounding area," said Stroud. "Our staff provides person-centered care that caters to each individual, and we recommend that families adjust their holiday plans to accommodate the personal preferences of loved ones living with dementia. The holidays can still be a time to have purpose-filled experiences together, while creating new memories together."

Content Courtesy of the Orchard Assisted Living ABOUT THE ORCHARD The Orchard represents a new concept in assisted living and memory care and is built in a residential setting located in Katy on Kingsland Boulevard. Situated on 4.5 acres, the convenient one-story design is more like home. Assisted Living apartments are available with or without patios. Three balanced meals are made fresh from scratch daily and are provided each day in a variety of settings from restaurant-style seating to family-style tables. The full-time events coordinator ensures that residents enjoy engaging and purpose-filled activities on a daily basis. The Orchard embraces the concept of person-centered care, which emphasizes the residents’ individualized needs and ensures their well-being. The caregivers truly feel as if the residents are part of their family. Services and amenities include onsite 24-hour trained caregivers, weekly housekeeping, laundry services, scheduled local transportation for medical appointments, shopping, religious services and other local activities, assistance with bathing and dressing, medication management and onsite physical therapy. The community is pet-friendly and residents have access to a full beauty salon and secure courtyard areas. For more information, visit www.TheOrchardKaty.com or call 281-371-3000.

Katy, Texas – December 8, 2015 This week, State Representative Mike Schofield proudly presented an ornament painted by local artisans to be hung on the Christmas Tree erected in the House Chamber in Austin.

Heather and Shaun Carson are local artists who own the Carson Art School in Katy, TX, located in the heart of House District 132. They graciously hand-painted the glass ornament, adorned with the Holy Family and the words "Unto us a Savior is Born". This ornament is one of 150 created by each House District to be hung on the House Chamber Christmas tree.

"I am so proud to be able to share the overwhelming talent of these artists with Texas Capitol visitors from all over the state and the country," Schofield said. "This particular ornament truly embodies the real reason for the season and is a perfect reminder during these busy times that faith and family come first."

Mike Schofield is the State Representative for Texas House District 132 in Katy and Cy-Fair. Mike served as an adviser to Governor Perry from 2003 to 2013, where he advised the governor on legislation ranging from lawsuit abuse and property rights protection to maintaining a fair election system and Voter ID.

Content Courtesy of House District 132

Katy, Texas – December 2, 2015 Seven Lakes High school and Cinco Ranch High School have more than 3,000 students apiece and still manage to receive high marks across the board.

Cinco Ranch and Seven Lakes high schools were recently ranked in the top 25 high schools in the state by Niche, a review site providing rankings and insight into more than 120,000 K-12 schools. Cinco Ranch ranked #15, while Seven Lakes ranked #12.

Niche looked at data on academics, health and safety, diversity, teachers and resources.

Content Courtesy of Katy ISD

Katy, Texas – November 25, 2015 Your guide to enjoying Katy's most tantalizing social-hour specials

Happy hour is a time to relax and unwind after a hard day or kick back with friends and enjoy a drink or two. But happy hour is not just about the drinks. There are a lot of delectable snacks and appetizers to try, making happy hour even happier. No more pretzels and peanuts – these snacks are sure to spoil your appetite for dinner.

BJ's Restaurant and Brewhouse 20536 Katy Fwy. | 281-769-1850 At BJ's happy hour is Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. and Sunday through Thursday, 9 to 11 p.m. This fall, happy hour is also extended to anytime during a pro football game. In addition to drink specials, there are lots of great specials on snacks and appetizers. BJ's offers mini deep dish pizza, prepared with their signature five-cheese blend for only $6. An order of four sliders with grilled onions, lettuce, and pickles is only $5 during happy hour.

Bonefish Grill 2643 Commercial Center Blvd. | 281-394-5099 Stop by Bonefish Grill in LaCenterra and enjoy $1 off draft beer and $3.50 wines daily from 4 to 6:30 p.m. They also offer specials on their signature cocktails including the fresh pear martini, with freshly muddled pears and garnished with an edible flower. Enjoy a taste of the season with the fall apple martini, including soaked apples, a touch of honey, and topped with cinnamon sprinkle. On Wednesday nights you can try their famous bang bang shrimp, tossed in a creamy spicy sauce, all night for only $6.

Chuy's 21300 Katy Fwy. | 832-772-1277 Stop by Chuy's for happy hour, Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. and enjoy their famous, free, fully-loaded nacho car. General manager Mark Novak says, "Our nacho car is the back end of a 1956 Chevy Bellaire, piled high with nacho chips, queso, beans, and ground sirloin." You can help yourself to a plate of nachos at the bar anytime during happy hour. Another great option is the deluxe quesadillas with chicken fajita meat, cheese, green chilies, and onions or the appetizer plate, which includes the deluxe quesadillas along with chicken flautas, chile con queso, guacamole, and sour cream.

Hasta La Pasta 1450 W. Grand Pkwy. S. | 281-392-0045 Stop by for happy hour Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. Kimberly Gattis owns and runs Hasta La Pasta with her husband Eric. "We have $1.99 house wine, domestic beer, frozen margaritas, bellinis, and house-made sangria during happy hour," Gattis says. She suggests any of their $5.99 appetizers to go with your bevvies. "We have bruschetta, toasted ravioli, calamari, fried zucchini, and sausage with peppers," Gattis says. The calamari is lightly breaded, fried, and served with artichokes. The fried zucchini comes with pomodoro and ranch sauces.

Landry's Seafood 22215 Katy Fwy. | 281-392-0452 Kyle Simms, general manager at Landry's in Katy, says, "We have happy hour seven days a week, 11a.m. to 7 p.m., with drink specials on beer, wine, and cocktails." The food prices are pretty special too. Simms adds, "We have tiers of appetizers like the battered onion strings and jalapenos, served with ranch dressing for dipping at just $4." For shrimp lovers there are the fire cracker shrimp poppers, tempura fried in a sweet chili glaze or stuffed shrimp brochette, large bacon-wrapped shrimp stuffed with seafood, jack cheese, and jalapenos, which can be had for only $7 during happy hour. "Another must-try app is the fried crab balls," Simms says. "They’re great with cocktail sauce and served with a side of onion strings for $5."

Los Cucos 5831 Highway Blvd. | 281-391-9466 Los Cucos manager Luis Toro proudly recommends the family appetizer platter at happy hour. "It's a big variety of bite-sized snack foods, with enough for everyone to share," says Toro. The platter comes with chicken flautas, stuffed jalapenos, beef fajita nachos, chicken quesadillas, and chile con queso. Happy hour at Los Cucos is all day Monday and Tuesday, and from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday. Happy hour food specials are served Monday through Friday, 3 to 6 p.m. and include chicken taquitos, shrimp cocktail, and ceviche served with chips.

Perry's Steakhouse 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. | 281-347-3600 Monday through Friday Perry's Steakhouse offers specials on their social hour menu from 4 to 6:30 p.m. With delicious select appetizers and signature cocktails for half the price, your experience at Perry's is bound to be blissful. Try their delicious escargot or pork chop bites for $7.95 each, with a cucumber blueberry martini for $6.

Saltgrass Steakhouse 21855 Katy Fwy. | 281-647-9400 "Saltgrass Steakhouse has a happy hour that is incomparable," says corporate beverage manager Brian Webb. "We offer a large selection of local and imported beers for less than $3 and several premium wines for under $5. At Saltgrass, you can enjoy value drinks without having to compromise quality." To go with your libations, Webb recommends the range rattlers. "We take jumbo jalapenos and stuff them with jack cheese and whole shrimp, then we fry it to a golden brown." Another popular choice is the creamy, satisfying spinach and artichoke dip, served with crisp tortilla chips and salsa. Both are available for only $6 in the bar area during happy hour, Monday through Friday from 3 to 7 p.m.

Texas Borders Bar & Grill 20940 Katy Fwy. | 281-578-8785 See ad on page 182 At Texas Borders Bar & Grill, happy hour runs all day on Monday and from 3 to 7 p.m. the rest of the week. "We have some awesome apps and different specials for every day of the week," says Kellie Messer. The Texas Borders hot bites are only $3 during happy hour. Choose from fried pickles, onion rings, or cheese sticks with marinara. "For bigger appetites we have $6 buffalo chicken, a cheeseburger, or pulled pork sliders served with fries," Messer says. Another great choice is the mini crab meat quesadilla with pico.

TGI Friday's Any time can be happy hour at TGI Friday's with their new endless choice of appetizers. You can get endless refills on your choice of appetizers for only $12 or, for $10, you can have endless refills of one favorite appetizer. There are new selections on the menu as well including spicy sriracha chicken potato skins loaded with asiago-queso, and French onion dumplings filled with caramelized onions and topped with melted Swiss cheese. Pair that with one of their famous smoothies like the mango passion smoothie with organic agave, passion fruit, and mango purees. KM

More Great Happy Hours in Katy Black Walnut Café – $4 mimosas, and other cocktails, $3 fried pickles, and $4 quesadillas M-F, 7 – 10:30 a.m. and 3 – 6:30 p.m. Jimmy Changa's – $2.50 draft beer, $9 Tex-Mex egg rolls, M-F, 12 – 6 p.m. Johnny Carino's – $2 off appetizers and pizza, M-F, 3 – 7 p.m. Kublai Khan – $5 sushi rolls, M-F, 3 – 6 p.m. Las Mañanitas – $3.50 margaritas, $7.50 shrimp nachos, M-F, 3-7 p.m.

CHERRI NORTHCUTT enjoys dining out with friends and family in Katy. Her favorite happy hour snacks always include nachos.

Smashburger

PDQ Fresh Tenders Salads and Sandwiches Tuesday, December 1st 4-8 PM Valid at PDQ Cinco Ranch 23703 Cinco Ranch Blvd 10% back to Katy ISD Food for Families

McDonalds Wednesday, December 2nd 5-8 PM Valid at Seven Meadows Location 7104 South Fry Road 15% back to Katy ISD Food for Families

Katy, TX Blog (November 16, 2015) – From Katy ISD Leadership – "As you may already know, on Friday the world was shocked to learn of the terrorist attacks in Paris.

Today, as a mark of respect for those victims, our flags were flown at half-staff and will remain as such until sunset on Thursday. Furthermore, many Katy ISD schools and facilities participated in a moment of silence today at 12:00 noon to honor the memory of the victims.

Even though this took place in another country, its impact reaches across the world and gives us reason to pause and think about our families and our children, as no community is immune to random acts of violence.

Here in Katy ISD, we take proactive measures to not only be prepared to respond to random acts of violence, but to prevent – to the extent that we can – them from occurring in the first place.

The safety and security of students and staff members on our campuses is of the highest priority and by working together to create healthy and positive relationships with teachers and the school, we can ensure that we provide safe teaching and learning environments."

Katy ISD

Katy, Texas – November 13, 2015

These four-legged friends are hard at work bringing joy and unconditional love wherever they go

Not only do animals provide unwavering affection, they’ve also been able to lend some of their talents to aide Katy in the line of duty. Meet five professional pups who maintain positions in the community across different industries.

Golden Ambassador Being intelligent, well-mannered, and great with kids made a golden retriever an easy choice to be the face of Katy's newest community, Cane Island. As ambassador, Hub's role is to welcome guests and residents as well as help host events throughout the year. He is named in recognition of the city of Katy being the hub of three counties: Waller, Harris, and Fort Bend. Hub's spirited personality is the best embodiment of the attitude Cane Island hopes to offer. Anyone visiting the welcome center is permitted to a meet-and-greet with the canine, while residents are able to take him out for walks around the neighborhood. When Hub is off-the-clock, he can be found inside his private shelter and yard at the Cane Island welcome center. At the end of the day, he gets to go home and relax with his host family, leaving the ambassador's suite available for overnight stays by residents.

Fighting Fires Keeping with the tradition of using Dalmatians as firehouse dogs, the Katy Fire Department has its very own mascot named Katy. The Dalmatian breed initially became associated with firehouses when horse-drawn carriages were still the primary mode of transportation. Being able to keep speed with a horse is no easy task, but Dalmatians were able to do so while sprinting long distances. Along with being highly compatible and easily trained, Dalmatians soon became the service dog of choice for fire stations in order to help guide horses to fires. Though times have changed and transportation has advanced, Dalmatians’ long service history and association with fire departments remains. Katy's main roles are in raising fire safety awareness and city publicity. She has visited elementary schools, as well as numerous daycare centers in the area to perform safety presentations. Katy is wonderful with kids, able to demonstrate the "stop, drop, and roll" training, and is able to help secure a broken leg in a traction splint. Katy has been on live calls, but stays in the fire truck for her own safety. When not visiting Katy ISD students or performing press appearances, Katy can be found at the Katy fire house. One of her biggest services is providing companionship for the firefighters during their time at the fire house. Eating and sleeping with the crew, she is loved for her sweet personality and keeping everyone laughing with her canine antics.

Tracking Narcotics There are a few exemplary breeds utilized by law enforcement for special purposes, and Marcel is no exception. A 10-yearold black Labrador retriever, Marcel is a narcotics dog and works with his handler Sergeant Justin Moyer in Katy ISD to help detect illegal substances across the campuses. Even-tempered and well-behaved, labs’ roles in K9 units are typically in fields of detection and human tracking. Marcel is able to sniff out the odors of cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamines, and heroin. He then uses a passive alert to signal his partner. Marcel is used in many situations across the district and also assists other agencies when a narcotics canine is requested. Marcel's training took roughly six months to complete, and he has been an active detection canine for seven years. For him, his job is more like a game of hide-and-seek. When he locates the hidden substance, he is rewarded with a Kong toy. Marcel is originally from France and was taught commands in both French and German. Along with becoming multilingual, Sergeant Moyer is also able to recognize when Marcel detects different odors and the subtle changes he makes when picking up scents.

Pawfect Theropy There are many different types of therapy dogs, but they all have one special skill in common: their ability to instinctively connect with the needs of each individual they meet. Gracie is one of the founding pets of Tender Loving K-9's and was born to be a therapy dog. Gracie has made over 400 visits to the Memorial Hermann Katy and Memorial City hospitals since starting in 2007.

Christopher has been visiting patients with his owner Ruthe Warren since July of this year and they are already working on becoming registered for the Reading Education Assistance Dog (READ) program. They plan to begin working with Katy area schools this year to help children improve their reading skills. Their role at Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital is to greet visitors in the lobbies, waiting rooms, and notably patients that have requested visits from the teams. Gracie has been with many stroke patients who end up speaking their first words to her and raise their arms in order to pet her after months of limited or even zero movement. While the dogs are most recognized for interactions with patients, Sharon Evans, founder of Tender Loving K9's, says their work is also beneficial for staff members. "The staff often comments that petting the dogs really helps to lower their stress during the day as well." KM

ELIZABETH PADGETT is a professional writer and has two power pups of her own, Maggie and Lucy

Katy, Texas – November 2, 2015

Taylor High School choir director, Kevin Riehle, has shaped the minds and captured the hearts of students by showing them how to fall in love with music and life

In 2008, Kevin Riehle began working at Taylor High School as the long-term sub. "I jumped in at the end of February and fell in love with the students, school, and the staff." He came in at a time when the choir program was struggling, and turned it into something to be proud of. In the past eight years at Taylor he has made a huge impact on his students. They are his legacy, and they too hope to make the same impact on others that he has made on them.

Sharing His Passion Katie Hines, a 2009 graduate, teaches elementary music and is the artistic assistant director of the Hill Country Youth Chorus. Hines is planning on starting a choir at the elementary school where she teaches. "If Mr. Riehle was able to come into our school, take a crumbling program, build it back up, and then make it something to be proud of, I figured I could start something new for my kids," she says. "I am taking his passion and love for his art and sharing that with my own students. I hope that I can have an impact on one of my kids, just like he did for me."

The Beauty of All Compositions Taylor 2011 graduate, Myles Anderson, now known as "Stockz" in the music industry, is pursuing a singing and songwriting career in Los Angeles. He has appeared in a commercial series, on Houston's CW39 News Fix and Sports RAPP Live. Anderson took men's choir his junior year and ended up loving the class so much that he took it twice. "I took choir before high school, but never by choice," says Anderson. Riehle opened Anderson's eyes to a whole new depth of music. "He taught us to appreciate different genres of music and see the beauty in all compositions." Anderson left Riehle's class with a new sense of vocal confidence, and a transformed love for music. "He believed in me and told me I was capable. If I was never taught by Riehle I don't think my passion for music would be the same."

He Pushed Me Laura Smolik is pursuing her masters in music and studying vocal performance and opera. She also holds a Bachelor of Music from Southern Methodist University (SMU). During the end of Smolik's senior year she was auditioning for college voice programs, and Riehle was there for advice and encouragement. "He is the one who really pushed me to go to SMU. I learned so much about myself as a singer and a person in college," says Smolik. "His openness and willingness to help us grow not only as singers but also as people is something I will never forget."

Following His Lead Collin Friedli was very involved in choir all four years and played football until he was a junior. Riehle was always very encouraging of Friedli playing football, despite many calendar conflicts. "Saying that he impacted my life is in extreme understatement. Everything I thought I knew about music was seen through new eyes after him," says Friedli. "Kevin showed me a life path that was so rich and rewarding that I had no choice but to follow it." Friedli attends Texas State University and is a music studies major. "My sophomore year he stopped us in the middle of a song, and thanked us. He said, ‘I get to wake up and be excited to go to work every day.’ It was at that moment I knew I wanted to teach music."

Takes the Cake Robin Harwell says that she looks at "Papa Riehle" like a second dad. "I was able to go to him with anything," says Harwell. "Sometimes he comes out of his office dancing around like a maniac and sometimes he is sitting at the piano waiting for the class bell to ring so that he can read poetry." He puts his whole heart into his career. "When it comes to being a choral director, Mr. Riehle takes the cake." She believes that Riehle has shaped her into the person she is now. "If he had not been there to nurture me or give me standards as a musician, I don't know who I would be today."

Handprints on Our Hearts Kathryn Heathcock is a Texas State graduate and is working on her certification to become a music teacher. Riehle has always been open to new traditions and ideas and he listens to his students. Heathcock suggested the ongoing tradition of seniors painting their handprints on a wall in his office. "Mr. Riehle is able to look up and see all of the handprints he has left on students’ hearts," she says. Heathcock is a changed person because of Riehle's guidance. "The qualities about me that grew after having Mr. Riehle have made up so much of who I am today. If I wouldn't have met him, there is no way I would be the same."

Leaving a Legacy He has impacted hundreds of students and has inspired many to pursue their love of music. "To lead a young person into a passion-filled career is without equal," says Riehle. He is at the point in his career where he has had the opportunity to see former students step into their own professions. "I am their greatest cheerleader and celebrate those victories and milestones with them; they are like my children who have gone out from the nest to soar into their own lives, where they too, will influence the next generation after them." KM

"A heart is not judged by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others. I think after seeing and hearing what everyone has to say about him, we know the kind of heart he has. A very special, rare one." – Kathryn Heathcock

"He kept us together and made a brotherhood between a room full of people who wouldn't have met outside of choir." – Myles Anderson

"I doubted my place in the choir and my passion for music before Mr. Riehle became our director." – Katie Hines

KRISTA FRIEDLI is a Taylor High School alumni who loved watching her little brother grow as a singer and a person under Kevin Riehle.

Katy, Texas – October 26,2015 As the fall season arrives, Katyites can enjoy spending more time outdoors in the cooler weather. From pumpkin patches to Howl-O-Ween, these nearby festivals will get you into the spirit of the season.

Texas Renaissance Festival October 11 – November 29 (weekends) Todd Mission, Texas texrenfest.com

Be prepared to see people dressed up as pirates, fairies, lords and ladies, kings, queens, and more and don't be too shy to dress up yourself. Music can be heard throughout and stage performances are available with free seating. Try a variety of cultural foods found at every corner. There will be Renaissance-inspired craft making, amusement rides, and shops at the festival. Admission is free for kids under 4 and kids ages 12 and under on Sundays. Kids 12 and under are $14 and adult admission is $26.

iFest Live November 7 Sugar Land Town Square | Sugar Land, Texas sugarlandtx.gov

A variety of cultural diversity will be seen, shared, and celebrated at this lively festival. Different cultures will have showcase booths, and attendees can visit each booth to learn about the different cultures. Student groups and local organizations will provide musical and dance performances. International cuisine will be available. Admission is free. Children's Festival Woodlands November 14 – 15 Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion The Woodlands, Texas woodlandscenter.org

In past years, attendees have enjoyed performances from Choo-Choo Soul, Junie B. Jones, sing-a-long with Barney, Kidz Bob kids, and more. Mascots such as Scooby Doo, Clutch from Houston Rockets, and more have also made an appearance. Outdoor activities like kite making and flying, parachute races, panning for gold, rock walls, and bumper boats will keep the kids busy. Admission is $8 for adults purchased in advance or $10 at the gate. Admission is free for children 2 years old and under. Via Colori November 21 – 22 Downtown at Hermann Square centerhearingandspeech.org

Take the whole family to see unique street paintings created with pastel chalks. For a $10 donation, you can create your own street painting. Kids will be able to enjoy chalk games such as hop-scotch, four square, and tic-tac-throw. A scavenger hunt and an activity to construct musical instruments are some fun activities to look forward to. Rain or shine, the event will still go on. Food vendors will be available. Admission is free. KM

WENDY TENG is a freelance writer with an MHA degree. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, writing, volunteering, and trying new restaurants. Children can enjoy activities at the Pumpkin Patch and Scarecrow Festival at the Oil Ranch

Don't forget to share your fun festival pics with us! Tag @KatyMagazine on Instagram. You may even find yourselves on our next InstaFaves page!

Katy Magazine, Katy, Texas

October 20, 2015

Catching up with the NFL quarterback and former Katy Tiger to find out how he makes it work as a first-time dad, devoted husband, and fearless leader of the Cincinnati Bengals. "Growing up, I went to Texans games at Reliant Stadium, and I played there as a Katy Tiger and as quarterback for TCU; but the coolest feeling ever was playing at NRG (formerly Reliant Stadium) for the Bengals and getting the win on my dad's birthday."

During the last interview with Andy Dalton, he was a young athlete from Katy on the brink of a promising future in professional football. Now, he is a seasoned pro quarterback, family man, and philanthropist ready to reflect on the last four years of life, love, and football.

Forging Ahead Straight out of college at Texas Christian University, Dalton was thrown into a scenario he’d never faced, in the form of the 2011 NFL lockout. "It was rough, but I didn't really know what I was missing. We just forged ahead and did the best we could with the resources we had to prepare for the upcoming season," he says. In his rookie year, Dalton led the Bengals to a 9-7 season, their best outing since 2009, and got them a wild card spot in the 2011 to 2012 NFL playoffs. After his time as a Katy Tiger, Dalton went on to secure two Sugar Bowl victories for the TCU Horned Frogs in 2005 and 2009, and a Rose Bowl championship as a senior in 2011. As an NFL quarterback, he led Cincinnati to four playoff appearances in four seasons.

Still, even among the excitement of playing for the big leagues, there have been a few personal thrills that he will never forget. "Growing up, I went to Texans games at Reliant Stadium, and I played there as a Katy Tiger and as quarterback for TCU; but the coolest feeling ever was playing at NRG (formerly Reliant Stadium) for the Bengals and getting the win on my dad's birthday." Below: Dalton with his wife Jordan and son Noah

Family Over Everything Dalton credits his firm family foundation for his success in life. He recalls the sacrifices made on the part of others that helped him get to where he is. "I was able to get a chance to play in college because I had talent but also because my parents sacrificed their time to take me to 15 football camps to get ready for college. My mom made my scouting tapes," he says. Now, when he comes home, Dalton gets to experience his entire extended family – cousins, siblings, aunts, and uncles – showing enthusiasm and getting involved, something he says has been amazing to witness.

With their son Noah to care for, family time is now more important than ever, and he and his wife Jordan enjoy the hours they get to spend together. "Jordan has been so amazing and supportive. I feel blessed to have her on this journey with me."

During the off season, the Daltons do the best they can to cherish time with friends and family. "We don't get to see them as much as we like, but we make it work. We’ll fly them out for games or visit during the off season. But without a doubt, every time I come home to Katy, I have to go to Los Cucos at least once," he says.

Culture of Winning Forever a Katy Tigers fan, Dalton admits to watching the football games from his iPad while he's on the road. When asked what he thinks is the secret ingredient behind the athletes that emerge from Katy's football program, he says, "Gary Joseph and the coaching staff get guys to buy in to the belief that you’re going to win a championship. The way they run the program just makes it fun to be there. The success of the program, winning so many state championships, the whole culture is winning. The hard work they put into it carries over into life, and the kids carry that with them later on." It's that mindset that Dalton carried with him throughout his college career and into the NFL. It is part of the reason he has been such a success, both on and off the field. Dalton advises young athletes pursuing a professional career to put their education at the forefront. "I think that it's important to complete your education no matter what. In college and in sports, you have to weigh where you’re at and where you’re going to end up. Education is extremely important, and the NFL has so many programs like tuition reimbursement that make it possible to get your degree. There are people here on staff saying, ‘Hey, we want you to have an education.’ The NFL has always been very supportive of that," says Dalton.

Written by Ashley Lancaster | Select photography courtesy of the Cincinnati Bengals

Katy, Texas- October 12, 2015

Lakewood singers, Katy residents, and siblings Steve Crawford and Da’dra Crawford Greathouse journey from award-winning gospel group to center stage at Joel Osteen's Lakewood Church

From the moment they were born, Steve Crawford and Da’dra Crawford Greathouse felt an incredible connection to music that they credit to their family. Greathouse remembers singing in front of a congregation when she was 3 years old, standing on a table with her mother holding her hand. "Both my grandmother and my father were musicians. In our family, if you were old enough to stand still, you were out front singing," Crawford adds. It was that deep love for gospel music that inspired them to create the gospel group, Anointed, and later become headlining worship leaders for Houston's Lakewood Church.

During their childhood, the siblings sang with various choirs and performed as the Crawford Family Band where they were encouraged to create their own music. "Mom made sure we got to be kids, too. We had time to watch Wonder Woman and The Incredible Hulk before our rehearsals and shows," says Greathouse.

A Song to Inspire One night, the two were at a gospel concert when Greathouse suddenly felt a calling for a musical group. After meeting with her brother and friends Denise Walls and Mary Tiller, Anointed was officially in business. "Our purpose was to branch out to other people our age. We gathered around the piano, sang together, and the sound was amazing," Crawford says. Steve describes their sound as a synergy between gospel, jazz, and pop music.

Crawford and Greathouse truly believe music has the ability and power to inspire people – to give them hope. "Music can affect moods and emotions. It can encourage and lift people up, or it can bring them down. Lyrics are just as important as the melody. Words have a power to them," says Crawford.

The Call to Lakewood In 2006, Lakewood Church was looking for someone to fill in while their worship leader went on tour, and they thought of Anointed. The duo flew to Houston that June to visit Lakewood, where they performed at the first Saturday night service after arriving. Afterward they were offered a job.

Spreading Their Wings in Katy New to the Houston area and Texas altogether, Greathouse remembers that a friend suggested that if she had kids, she should live in Katy. "I’m so glad I took that advice because we love it here," Greathouse says. Her son Evan plays center for the Katy High School Tigers varsity football team. Evan also plays drums for the children's program at Lakewood.

Her younger son, Eran, sings and leads worship at a Saturday service for first- and second-graders. Steve also moved his family to Katy and enjoys living here. His son Steve Jr. plays soccer with the Albion Hurricanes, and his daughters, Aniya and Sydney, sing in the children's choir at Lakewood. Throughout their musical careers, Crawford and Greathouse have remained grounded in faith and family, values taught by their mother and father. It is these same values that they hope to instill in their own children. "Family is everything," Crawford says. "My children are my legacy and I want them to have integrity, respect and love others, and love God." KM

CHERRI NORTHCUTT is a freelance journalist. She has been living in Katy for 15 years with her husband and daughters.

Do you have an inspirational story? Email us! [email protected]

Katy, Texas (October 6, 2015) Diversify your palate with savory dishes from these fiery Latin eateries

Katyites are experiencing more flavors than ever before with the growing number of dining options in the area. From the seasoned steaks of Brazil to the delicate desserts of Peru, these Latin eateries are spicing things up for local foodies.

Alegria Brazilian Grill 24449 Katy Fwy. 281-394-7753 "My grandmother influenced most of my cooking style," shares Chef Arisoteles Alencar who was born and raised in Brazil. "The seasonings I use in our creations have been used in my family for generations." The centerpiece of Alegria is a custom mesquite rotisserie grill where they slow-cook steak, chicken, sausage, and pineapple. Alencar recommends the picanha. "It's a black bean stew with pork rib meat and smoked sausage served with rice, sautéed collard greens, and farofa – a yucca flour – then garnished with orange slices." For dessert, try an aromatic cup of cafezinho espresso and Pudim de Coco – coconut flan.

Las Alamedas 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 281-347-3030 Las Alamedas features truly elegant dining in LaCenterra, offering regional Mexican cuisine. Owner Jorge Sneider was born and raised in Mexico and brings that culture and cuisine to his restaurant. "We have so many authentic dishes from Mexico, it's hard to choose," Sneider says. "I do recommend the carnitas michoacan and snapper Veracruz." The carnitas start with slow-cooked pork loin with a garnish of cilantro, guacamole, and onions served with tomatillo sauce. Fish lovers will delight in the snapper Veracruz with a sauce of tomatoes, capers, olives, and spices. "It's served with our Mexican rice, a recipe from my grandma," Sneider shares. Don't forget to end your meal with the taste of something sweet. Sopapillas are a traditional Mexican pastry fried and served with honey.

El Asador Mexican Restaurant 3750 S. Mason Rd. 832-321-4954 An elegant fixture in the Cinco Ranch area, El Asador specializes in authentic dishes from Mexico. Suzanne Neff, a Cinco Ranch mother of two enjoys their stuffed chicken avocado. "I love the flavor and texture, and the chicken ranchero enchiladas are amazing," she says. With 16 different enchilada dishes, everyone is sure to find something they love. In a tribute to their location, their Cinco Ranch special features a quail, beef, or chicken fajita topped with poblano peppers, bacon, and jack cheese. La Granja El Nido 3815 N. Fry Rd. 281-578-6758 Located on the south side of Katy, La Granja El Nido provides locals with an authentic taste of El Salvador. The pupusa is a tortilla handmade from corn or rice flour and stuffed with cheese, chicharron, beans, or vegetables. Katy native Jon Perryman says, "I love their carne asada fajita tacos, the taste is great." Another popular dish to try is the pollo asado with a marinated chicken breast, peppers, and vegetables served with rice, beans, salad, and handmade tortillas.

Los Cucos 5831 Highway Blvd. 281-391-9466 Among Katyites, the original Los Cucos is still considered one of the best Tex-Mex restaurants. Katy ISD teacher Diane Gonzales says, "I’m an enchilada lover and Los Cucos has me covered. Their spice blends add the perfect touch." Gonzales’ family are also fans of their homemade guacamole dip, prepared table-side. Sean Thompson, father of two, likes the atmosphere at Los Cucos. "It's lively and fun but not overwhelming," he says. "The taco plate is a favorite of mine and we all love their queso." Try something a little different with their stuffed avocado plate. Accompanied by rice, beans, and a cup of steaming tortilla soup, the dish can be filled with chicken, beef, or shrimp.

Original Marini's Empanada House 3522 S. Mason Rd. 832-391-4273 The Marini family brings a wide variety of traditional Argentine empanadas through Original Marini's Empanada House. "We have over 70 varieties," Sergio Marini says. "We cater to a lot of different cultures because you find empanadas in all of South America." He estimates that about 75% of their menu comes from his mother's recipes. Marini recommends the chicken Diablo with diced chicken, bell peppers, tomato sauce, and spices. "Try the beef gaucho; it's amazing. It has hard boiled eggs, ground beef, onions, olives, and other spices," he adds. Don't miss out on feeding your sweet tooth. With dessert empanada flavors like pumpkin with cinnamon, chocolate Ghirardelli, s’mores, and a peanut butter cup, you’ll be begging Marini for his secret recipes.

Mi Pueblito Colombian Restaurant 402 W. Grand Pkwy. S. 281-665-8690 Oscar Velasquez, owner of Mi Pueblito, is pleased to offer traditional plates from different regions of Colombia. "The Bandeja Paisa tray is from the Antioquia region, and comes with grilled steak, pork belly, pork sausage, a fried egg, corn patty, fried plantain, rice, and beans," Velasquez says. "It appeals to the meat lovers." Other fan favorites are the grilled churrasco, a juicy and flavorful sirloin and the empanadas de carne. Velasquez also recommends the Ajiaco Bogotano, a delicious chicken soup prepared with three kinds of potatoes and guasco leaves. "Our food, the décor, and the Latin music gives you the sensation of going back in time to old Colombia," Velasquez shares.

Palma de Cera 2004 S. Mason Rd. 281-392-3800 Palma de Cera fills their menu with hand-picked dishes from Latin America featuring flavors from Colombia, Cuba, Brazil, and Chile. Stephanie Teel, a local teacher and mother of four, enjoys the steak with chimichurri sauce. "It's delicious and cooked perfectly," she says. "I love the fried plantains as well." There are a variety of steak offerings with sauces ranging from creamy mushroom to chipotle. Among them is the ropa vieja, a flank steak drizzled with Cuban sauce and served atop rice, beans, and fried yucca.

Pollo Bravo 890 S. Mason Rd. 281-392-0030 More than just a great place for rotisserie chicken, Pollo Bravo serves a hybrid of Peruvian and Mexican cooking. Recent additions to the menu are tallarines verdes and papa a la huacaina. "These are very traditional Peruvian dishes with fried cassava, avocado salad, and salchipapa," says manager Javier Gil. There are a few secret recipes on the menu as well. "Our famous creamy bravo hot sauce comes from an old family recipe," Gil shares. "Our house dressing will knock your socks off." Their house menu contains several flavorful dishes including the camarones a la brava, which coats shrimp in a creamy chipotle sauce and accompanies it with avocado salad and Mexican salad.

Sur Latin Peruvian Cuisine 19901 Kingsland Blvd. Houston 281-385-9778 Stop in at this neighborhood eatery for a unique South American experience. Valeria Lescano, manager of Sur, is proud of their authentic Peruvian cuisine. "Our ceviche is a favorite with customers and it's traditional to our area," Lescano says. Another popular dish is the lomo saltado, a succulent beef tenderloin sautéed with tomatoes and red onions. "We offer Latin amigable service, that's Spanish for friendly and harmonious," Lescano explains. "It's the taste of Peru in a bite." Warm up this fall with a bowl of sopa de mariscos – a spicy seafood soup made with shrimp, scallops, fish, and mussels. KM

Katy, Texas (September 23, 2015)

Katy ISD students experience learning through hands-on projects and seminars at the Robert R. Shaw Center for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics

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You’re standing in the midst of a living room in disarray with broken dishes, weapons, and other objects strewn about the floor. Just beyond the table lies a lifeless body, covered in blood. This was the scene at the Forensic Science CSI Experience held at the Robert R. Shaw Center for STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics). Over 900 Katy ISD students took part in the forensic science field trips and were taken through fingerprint analysis, interview and interrogation strategies, arson investigation, and a tour of the mobile command stations.

"We partnered with the Fort Bend County Sheriff 's Office, who helped us stage the crime scene," says Mariam Manuel, instructional specialist for the Shaw STEAM Center. The field trip also introduced students to the FACES facial recognition program, and guest speaker, forensic anthropologist Dr. Joan Bytheway, director of the South East Texas Applied Forensic Science Facility. Presenters included detectives and investigators from the Fort Bend County Crime Scene Unit and Fire Marshal Department.

Putting the "A" in S.T.E.A.M. After Superintendent Alton Frailey witnessed the success of the Cinco Ranch High School CRyptonite Robotics team and spear-headed the beginning stages of the program, then called, "STEM" three years ago, the leadership soon realized that there was an essential element missing, the creative arts perspective necessary to a young student's success. According to facility coordinator Steve Adams, the STEAM center amply provides the space and equipment for students to use their imaginations and creative thinking processes to apply the knowledge they gain in the classroom to largescale projects.

Showcasing Future Inventors As a facility that houses engineering and mathematics-based projects, the design and overall feel of the building was crucial. A team of 36 members, including Katy ISD staff and architects, studied high-tech design facilities in academic and industrial settings to identify four major qualities they wanted to inspire: creativity, communication, collaboration, and flexibility. "This allows teachers to be learners, students to be leaders, and mentors to be co-workers," says Adams. Through experiments, workshops, teacher training and development, competitions, and camps, students have a chance to learn new things beyond the scope of a normal classroom. For example, kids and teachers loved the CSI field trips and the Young Inventors Showcase for students in third through eighth grade. "The students brought invention-based projects to be judged through the Young Inventors Association of America, and our first-, second-, and third-place students qualified for the regional competition in Houston, where they had a chance to win a patent with their name on it," says Manuel.

A Path for Students Events like the Young Inventors Showcase are only the beginning for the STEAM Center. Future plans include summer camps, family STEAM nights, and science movie nights. They will also partner with Rice University's Civic Scientist program and the University of Houston to plan future workshops for students. The center will also offer more field trips for students and professional development sessions for Katy ISD teachers beginning this fall. "Our hope is that all students in our district will, at some point in their academic career, take part in a project or activity at the Shaw Center," says Manuel. Indeed, with the STEAM Center forging a path for students to engage and excel in science, technology, the arts, and mathematics, it is no wonder that Katy ISD has become a powerhouse of educational opportunity.

CHERRI NORTHCUTT is a freelance journalist and mother of two Katy ISD students who have keen interests in science and math.

Katy, Texas (September, 17, 2015) Iconic Katy Family spans five generations, more than 120 years, making a lasting imprint on the community.

Written by Wendy Teng and Katy Magazine's Editors

The Stockdicks put their footprints on Katy land long before the town of Katy even existed. In honor of the family's contributions to Katy, many Katyites have recognized area sites named in their honor like Stockdick Road, Stockdick School Road, and Stockdick House at Heritage Park.

The First Pioneer in the Family In 1895, Adam H. Stockdick settled in the area. "There was nothing here but a shed over a water well. Most settlers had to camp in tents or railcars until their homes were built. Living conditions could be very tough," says greatgranddaughter Rosanne Stockdick Lopez. Adam came to build a home for his family who was still in Iowa at that time. Although he was a school teacher, he was not able to make an income with his teaching certificate.

To support his family, he began farming and became the first land agent for the MKT Railroad. Writing letters to friends and family, he attracted and brought many settlers to colonize and develop the area with businesses. Adam's great-grandchildren Janet Stanberry and Ronald Scott share, "Adam influenced many families to move from Iowa to Katy based on the fertile farming land available." The drilling of the earliest deep water wells for rice farming is another remarkable achievement by Adam that was documented in 1902.

In total, it is estimated that Adam was able to bring 15 pioneering families to settle. After he left the MKT Railroad, Adam opened his own real estate company and sold land to families coming to the small town. He was one of the first individuals in Katy to see electricity, phone service, and indoor water piped to homes. Stanberry and Scott say, "He saw transportation go from horse, to horse and wagon, to motorized vehicles, to airplanes, to landing a man on the moon in 1969."

Building Katy Schools "Education has turned out to be our family's greatest legacy," says Lopez. One of Adam's sons, William Chester Stockdick, started the South Mayde School for children in 1905. About a decade later in 1914, he and A.J. Peek started the Stockdick School on Stockdick School Road. They also served as trustees. Both of these schools were only one-room buildings, but they offered an opportunity for children from the surrounding farms to get an education. The two schools closed in 1931 due to the availability of roads and buses from Katy ISD that were then able pick up students from the country and take them to school in town.

Other than helping to build some of the first schools in Katy, many of Stockdick's descendants chose careers related to education through teaching, administration, and becoming school board members. Lopez's daughter, Bethany Lopez Cobb, is a fifth-generation Stockdick who has taught in Katy ISD for more than a decade.

A Generational Story As a child, Lopez's life revolved around the farm. Her childhood days were spent on the family farm on Stockdick School Road because her dad was a rice farmer and cattleman. "Summers were always started with rice harvest. I drove a rice truck just as soon as my feet could reach the pedals and I could see over the steering wheel," Lopez says.

Lopez also had responsibilities working with cattle. She called it her "cattle job," and it included working on a card catalogue of every cow, calf, and bull on the farm, helping fill syringes for inoculations, treating pink eye, and applying fly dust. "I remember as a young child when the roads in Katy were paved for the first time. I remember the farms finally getting telephone service. Our lives have literally seen the space age and the high-tech age come about," says Lopez. "What an amazing journey.

Business was always a way of life in the family. "Lives changed constantly due to bad weather affecting crops, injuries, death, tragedy, and aging. One did not have the opportunity to ‘stop working’ if you wanted to succeed at anything in life," says Lopez. She has juggled several career changes, somewhat like her ancestor, Adam. Lopez was originally a teacher, but when she moved to Katy in 1975, there were no job openings at Katy Elementary School, which was the only elementary school at the time. For the next 20 years, she and her dad worked together in the family business selling homes.

The business closed in 1994, and she and her husband opened ABC Country Store. Unfortunately, due to her husband's health, the store closed in June 2008. Now, Lopez is a dedicated substitute and tutor for Katy ISD. She is also on the Katy Heritage Society Board and prepares history presentations of the City of Katy for Katy ISD elementary schools.

Future Hopes

The Stockdick descendants agree that Katy's small-town feel with strong family cultures are what keeps the growing community strong. "This strong sense of established roots gives self-confidence to children. They learn early on to respect the elderly, appreciate their own history, and understand why they need to learn about history," Lopez says. Katy is a wonderful place to raise a family, Cobb adds, "I want future generations to know that support and how it came to be because of all the generations before who worked hard and relied on each other." As part of the older generation of Stockdicks, Lopez and her family are working to document the Stockdick family history. With a collection of letters, journals, and pictures, the family is able to piece together a more detailed family legacy for future generations. KM

WENDY TENG is a freelance writer. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, blogging, volunteering, trying new restaurants, and learning about new organizations.

Katy, Texas (September 8,2015) Katy is one of the fastest growing cities in the nation and new businesses are popping up at every corner. Keep your eyes peeled for some of these new businesses that are coming soon or recently opened near you.

NEW TO KATY

Adidas Katy Mills Mall 281-644-5015

Brixton Pet Health 4611 FM 1463 832-913-3800

Cane Island Model Home by Perry Homes Franz Road and Bartlett Road 1-800-247-3779 See ad on page 14

Catchers University 5018 E. 5th St. 281-371-2125

Cricket Wireless 2001 Katy Mills Blvd. 800-274-2538

Flourish Pediatric Dentistry 2717 Commercial Center Blvd., #J220 281-394-2520

Harvest Natural Market 25600 Westheimer Pkwy. 281-665-4800 See ad on page 25

J-Dub's Burger Barn/Southland Grill New Location 5990 Stockdick Rd. 832-437-9701

Memorial Hermann Convenient Care Center 22430 Grand Corner Dr. 281-371-1980 See ad on page 188

Pho Bamboo 1230 N. Mason Rd. 281-717-4230 See ad on page 175

Proactive Lifestyle Fitness 811 S. Mason Rd. 281-599-3100 See ad on page 40

Safari Kids Learning Center 24936 Katy Ranch Rd. 832-583-9700 See ad on page 163

Schlotzky's Delicatessen 25010 Franz Rd. 855-335-4837

Sealy Dental Center Katy 2731 FM 1463 #500 281-712-6980

Texas Kids Learning Center 2520 N. Mason Rd. 281-829-9787

Tuesday Morning 24427 Katy Fwy. 281-412-0882

Vertskebap at Green Trails 19355 Katy Fwy. 281-578-2846

Corner Bakery Café 19355 Katy Fwy.

PDQ Cinco Ranch 23703 Cinco Ranch Blvd. August 2015

Snap Kitchen 19355 Katy Fwy.

COMING SOON

Bernie's Burger Bus LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd.

Blue Wave Car Wash Pin Oak Road and Kingsland Boulevard

British International School of Houston 2203 N. Westgreen Blvd.

Camp Bow Wow Katy 1515 Vander Wilt Ln. 281-849-3647 September 2015 See ad on page 73

Cerda*fied Specialists Custom Doors and Ironworks 24437 Katy Fwy. Fall 2015

Cowboy Chicken 20702 Katy Fwy. Fall 2015

Dunkin’ Donuts Cinco Ranch Boulevard and Spring Green Late 2015

Haven at Westgreen 510 Westgreen Blvd. Late 2015

Pepperoni's New York Style Pizza FM 1463 and S. Firethorne Drive Late 2015

Proud Pie 3522 S. Mason Rd. Fall 2015

Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers I-10 and Katy Fort Bend Road Late 2015

Scout & Molly's 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. Late 2015

Shoppes at Park West I-10 and Katy Fort Bend Road Early 2016

TLC Outdoor Living 24433 Katy Fwy. 832-583-9700 Fall 2015

Send your new-to-Katy items to [email protected]

Please confirm dates and locations with individual businesses as details may have changed since the time of print.

Katy, Texas (September 3, 2015)

Through community involvement and hard work, Katy ISD drill teams take their training, passion, and camaraderie far beyond the 50-yard line For any young woman in Katy ISD, drill team is synonymous with friendship, hard work, and the thrill of performing."They will know what it feels like to win and lose, and they will know how to handle both with grace. They will have a true appreciation for dance as an art and what it takes to be a great performer," says Rosey Fortenberry, dance teacher at Tompkins High School.

Written by Shetye Cypher | Photography by Anetrius Wallace

In Sync with the Community Joining the dance team at a Katy ISD high school is great for the girls’ sense of community involvement as well. "[The Cinco Ranch Cougar] Stars have a great love and respect for their team, school, and community and are always volunteering to help the elementary schools out with events," says Samantha Cockerham, dance teacher at Cinco Ranch High School. For example, every year they host a Kick-a-Thon event to raise money for the Ballard House.

Potential and Heart Because good form and technique cannot be learned overnight, drill team is something every girl needs to be prepared for. The best way for your teen to get ready is to sign up for drill team and dance workshops whenever possible. It also helps to know what the judges look for.

"I look for potential and heart. The judges look for dancers with good performance quality and potential," says Taylor High School (THS) dance teacher Darby Boyd, who has a BFA in dance performance from Southern Methodist University. Elise Nicknish, THS junior, who has been dancing for 13 years adds, "Don't be afraid to be yourself and let your personality shine through your dancing."

If you aren't a dancing veteran, don't feel discouraged. Anyone who truly wants to dance and gives the effort will get their shot. "We work hard with students that have an innate ability and natural talent for dancing that have not had any formal training," says Cockerham.

Perfecting the Steps During the regular season, teams from every school in Katy ISD perform choreographed halftime routines for football and basketball games, pep rallies, and community events. In order to be performance-ready for so many venues and appearances, drill teams practice for hours each day, in order to perfect routines.

Center Stage Spotlight When the season for performing at halftime is over, the real work starts. Competition season is fierce, fast-paced, and a serious time commitment, so parents should be prepared. "Parents should expect their student to be very busy. We also need them to reinforce the importance of managing and organizing their time, because dance is a year-round activity,"says Fortenberry.

The teams travel to various competitions throughout the state and sometimes the nation, vying for titles in different categories and often performing multiple routines a day. But the travel, training, and long days spent with teammates eventually build bonds that will last a lifetime. According to Seven Lakes High School senior, Sarah-Kate Fowler, being a part of the drill team has given her something special. "I have gained irreplaceable friendships from being a part of the Seven Lakes High School Sapphires. Seeing familiar faces all around the school and having a sense of belonging is something I will always cherish."

SHETYE CYPHER is a freelance writer who is also the journalism teacher and publications adviser at Tompkins High School.

Katy, Texas (August 18, 2015)

The first day of school is quickly approaching and parents have a lot on their plates as they prepare their children to get back in the school schedule grind. Amidst the back-to-school shopping for clothes and supplies, here are some important things that Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital wants to make sure aren't overlooked:

Sleep: Depending on age, kids need to get anywhere from 8 to 11 hours of sleep a night according to the National Sleep Foundation. This can be difficult when a child has grown accustomed to staying up late during the summer. To help your child with this adjustment, encourage them to establish a new sleep schedule by going to bed an hour earlier every night and waking up earlier until they are in a new pattern. Also, make sure the electronic devices are put away before bed as the lights can disrupt sleep cycles.

Check-ups: A thorough exam from the pediatrician is something that should be done before each new school year in order to ensure all records are up to date. Vaccinations and medical records should be current in case you need to provide this information to the school. Some student athletes may need a sports physical as well.

Nutrition: Find out about your child's lunch options at school. Nutrition is a big contributor to a student's success in school and parents should be taking the initiative to encourage healthy eating with their children. By sending a lunch with your child, or encouraging them to make healthy choices in the school cafeteria, you can play a key role in your child's health. Also, be sure to inform the school if your child has any food allergies.

Heat: The summer heat is in full force and can be a danger to students spending time outside during recess or participating in outdoor sports practices. Before sending the kids outside, make sure they’re drinking plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Fatigue, thirst, dry lips and feeling overheated are all signs dehydration and should be taken seriously.

Gear: Heavy backpacks can put a lot of weight on your child's back, neck and shoulders. It's suggested that students use both backpack straps instead of slinging a backpack over just one shoulder. If the student has access to a locker, make sure they store some of their items instead of trying to carry them all at once. If a locker is unavailable, check to see if the school allows rolling backpacks, which may be a successful solution.

The staff and affiliated physicians at Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital want your children to stay healthy as they head back to school. By following these tips, parents can be sure their kids will have a safe start to the school year.

Courtesy of Children's Memorial Herman Hospital

Katy, Texas (August 7, 2015)

Dogs are more than just pets, they are family. That's why it's important to keep your dog's health and wellness a top priority so they can enjoy a happier and longer life with you. Check out these tips to promote a healthy life for your dog.

Regular vet visits. The best way to prevent health problems or catch them early is to see your veterinarian every year.

Spay and neuter your pets. Pet overpopulation is a serious issue, and you can avoid adding to the millions of pets in shelters by spaying and neutering. There are added health benefits to altering your pet, too, such as reduced risk of certain cancers.

Get a microchip. Microchipping gives a lost pet the best chance at being reunited with their family. Be sure to register your pet's microchip and maintain current information.

Vaccinate regularly. Protect your pet from common illnesses by keeping up-to-date with vaccinations.

Training and socialization. Training provides mental stimulation and builds the bond between you and your dog while socialization is important to a dog's psychological health. Plus, taking your dog out in public will be much more enjoyable if they are well-trained and socialized from a young age.

Lots of love and attention. Need we say more?!

Click here for even more health tips.

Information Courtesy of Camp Bow Wow

KATY, TX – School supply lists for the 2015 to 2016 school year are available by clicking on each elementary school below. Please contact the school if you have questions regarding the lists.

Elementary Grade Levels:

Alexander Elementary Bear Creek Elementary Cimmaron Elementary Creech Elementary Davidson Elementary Exley Elementary Fielder Elementary Franz Elementary Golbow Elementary Griffin Elementary Hayes Elementary Holland Elementary Hutsell Elementary Katy Elementary Kilpatrick Elementary King Elementary Mayde Creek Elementary McRoberts Elementary Memorial Parkway Elementary Morton Ranch Elementary Nottingham Country Elementary Pattison Elementary Randolph Elementary Rhoads Elementary Rylander Elementary Schmalz Elementary Shafer Elementary Stanley Elementary Stephens Elementary Sundown Elementary West Memorial Elementary Williams Elementary Wilson Elementary Winborn Elementary Wolfe Elementary Wolman Elementary WoodCreek Elementary

Gymnastics is a great sport for both physical and mental strength, flexibility, balance and confidence. Here are some great reasons why taking gymnastics might be a great fit for your daughter and help shape her into a strong and successful woman.

1. Gymnastics will help to make her strong

Swinging on the bars and learning skills like cartwheels that require her to support her own body weight build strength from an early age. It's important to teach young girls that not only is being strong good for the body, but it's important in life.

2. Gymnastics will increase her flexibility

Every gymnastics class begins with a warm-up that includes stretching and splits, and then throughout the rest of the class gymnasts learn and practice skills that require them to use their flexibility. Better flexibility will decrease the risk of your daughter getting injured from gymnastics or any other physical activity she does.

3. Gymnastics will help to strengthen her bones

Children's bones become stronger and denser when they participate in weight-bearing activities. In gymnastics, children work against gravity with the force of their own weight. Making sure your child is engaging in any type of physical activity, but especially weight-bearing exercise, may be the most important thing you can do to promote their bone health.

4. Gymnastics will keep her fit and help her develop the habit of staying active

We know that young people need to be more active and fit. It's such a problem in our country that First Lady Michelle Obama formed the "Lets move" program to try to solve the epidemic of childhood obesity.

Gymnastics is one of the most diverse sports in terms of the types of exercises and muscles it develops. Gymnastics works to enhance a gymnast's strength, flexibility, speed, balance and coordination.

Having this flexibility and strength (especially core strength) skill set base as a teenager will prepare girls for yoga, pilates and other cardio exercise classes as young adults. Knowing they can take exercise classes like this without excessively struggling will help them maintain their healthy exercise habits while working or going to school.

5. Gymnastics will shape her into a well-rounded athlete, and teach her skills that will enhance other sports

Gymnasts are flexible, agile and strong, with coordination, balance and flexibility. These are important traits in gymnastics and in other sports. For example, learning how to run fast for the vault would be important in not only track and field, but soccer, basketball, rugby and softball. Balance and flexiblity are useful if she ever wants to join a dance team. And gymnastics skills such as tumbling skills and jumps are an important part of cheerleading.

6. Gymnastics will teach her balance

What better tool for learning balance than the balance beam? Learning to walk on a low beam first and then a high beam will teach balance at a young age. Gymnasts learn to not only balance on their feet, but on their hands.

7. Gymnastics will teach her how to fall, safely, helping to prevent her from getting injured in other sports or activities later in life

You want to fall trying to minimize impact and absorb shock, while protecting your head. Falling and putting your arms behind you is one of the first things gymnasts are taught not to do, as this is an easy way to break your arms. It's easier and safer to learn how to fall correctly in a gymnastics gym because of the many mats and foam pits to use when doing falling drills. Learning how to fall young will become instinctual and protect her from unnecessary injuries later in life.

8. Gymnastics will help her develop hand-eye and foot-eye coordination

Gymnastics is a great way for kids to learn how to make their body do what their brain is telling them to. Crawling through the pit, swinging from the bars, jumping on the trampoline, learning how to roll on floor mats–all of these exercises help kids learn how to move their body.

9. Gymnastics will help teach her to follow directions.

As soon as your gymnast is enrolled in a preschool gymnastics class she will start learning how to follow directions with obstacle courses. The instructor will explain what to do at each station, and she will have to remember what to do in order to participate. And since it's fun, she will want to remember, and her listening and "following directions" skills will start to form.

10. Gymnastics will teach her perseverance and patience, and how to set and achieve goals

Because gymnastics is a hard sport and most skills require repetition, she will learn that patience and perseverance are necessary in life to achieve goals. In order to learn new gymnastics skills she will have to focus on the goal of the skill and the practice and steps it takes to reach it.

11. Gymnastics will help her make friends in a safe environment

Gymnastics classes tend to have small class sizes, usually between 6-9 girls of about the same age per instructor. The small class size of girls of the same age will help her make friends in a safe and supervised environment.

12. Gymnastics will give her confidence

In a study done on members of the women's senior national Olympic team, it was found that the gymnasts had higher self-esteem when compared to other members from different sports of the senior national team This might be because the gymnasts on the Olympic team grew up in a safe environment with other ambitious, confident, encouraging girls.

13. Gymnastics can be started young.

Gymnastics classes are great for toddlers, or kids of any age because of all these physical and mental benefits. I know my sister and I wouldn't be the women we are today, women that have good jobs and work hard to stay healthy, without gymnastics.

Courtesy of www.gymnasticshq.com/reasons-why-you-should-enroll-your-daughter-in-gymnastics-classes/

Here is the Central Green schedule in La Centerra for the month of August. Bring your family and friends for some local fun!

1-Tai Chi (8:30am)

4- Tai Chi 9am

7-Summer Concert Series (7pm) Chris Brade – Chris Brade's shows are a mix of classic and current country and a whirlwind of energy and soul. He has opened shows for Mark Chesnutt, Alan Jackson,Roger Creager, Kevin Fowler, Johnny Lee, and the Bellamy Brothers, and plays a wide range of venues, from casinos, fairs and festivals everywhere, to the classic nightclubs.

8-Tai Chi (8:30am)

8-August 8 Paul Blart Mall Cop-PG – Starring Kevin James, Keir O’Donnell, Jayma Mays, and Raini Rodriguez. A regular guy who is a security guard defeats a criminal gang on his segway.

11- Tai Chi 9am

13- Kaia Yoga 630pm

14-Summer Concert Series (7pm)

15-Tai Chi (8:30am)

15- August 15 The New Annie-PG – A foster kid, who lives with her mean foster mom, sees her life change when business tycoon and New York mayoral candidate Will Stacks makes a thinly-veiled campaign move and takes her in.

18- Tai Chi 9am

21 Summer Concert Series (7pm)

22- Tai Chi (8:30am)

22- August 22 Princess and the Frog-G – With a modern twist on a classic tale, this animated comedy is set in the great city of New Orleans. Featuring a beautiful girl named Tiana, a frog prince who desperately wants to be human again, and a fateful kiss that leads them both on a hilarious adventure through the mystical bayous of Louisiana.

25- Tai Chi 9am

27- Kaia Yoga 630pm

28 – School of Rock Back to School Bash 7pm

29 – Tai Chi 830am

29- August 29 Avengers-PG-13 – Earth's mightiest heroes must come together and learn to fight as a team if they are to stop the mischievous Loki and his alien army from enslaving humanity.

From ballet to Zumba, Katyites dance for fun and better health

Written by Elizabeth Padgett | Photography by Reinaldo Medina

Getting fit doesn't have to include weights and typical workout routines. Many Katyites have found the path to better health and fitness with the rhythms of music, whether they are two-stepping to country songs, gliding within the romance of a ballroom, or having a Zumba dance party. If upbeat, fast-paced dancing isn't your style, perhaps the graceful movements of ballet will suit your tastes better. Not to be overlooked, the stretching and toning of muscles during this form of exercise will increase flexibility, ultimately leaving you with an improved shape.

Call It Classic Ballet

"Ballet is the foundation of dance, and it's where we get our terminology. Most other types of dance require you to know basic ballet steps to execute the style correctly," says Kathleen Connolly of Connolly Dance Arts. As a dance form, it has been practiced since the 15th century. While it may be intimidating, Connolly says that her adult classes cater to all skill levels. "Beginners, intermediate, and advanced adults are invited to take classes. Each week we review the basics, as harder movements are built upon them." A big reason dance-based fitness is successful for those who struggle with regular exercise stems from the enjoyment they experience. Connolly shares, "I have personally felt a greater sense of body awareness. I am healthier and happier when I am able to take or teach a class." Ballet and dance have helped her maintain her overall health.

Get Fit With Zumba

Kenyatta Kelly knew she needed to make a drastic change in her life when she was diagnosed with preeclampsia. Already overweight before her pregnancy, the added body fat and increased levels of blood pressure resulted in a miscarriage of her baby, Jessica, at only six months along. Shortly thereafter, Kelly was placed on medications to control her high blood pressure and depression. In order to get off the daily medications, she was informed by her doctor that she needed to exercise and monitor her diet. After becoming a licensed Zumba fitness instructor, Kelly went from 210 lbs. down to 155 lbs., and was successfully able to stop taking all medications. Now, she has made it her goal to help others change their lives by showing them exercise can be fun. "Zumba is the ultimate dance party that burns up to 1,000 calories per class. It's truly disguised as a workout,"says Kelly. One of the major benefits of Zumba is that it encompasses both cardio and toning, so in one session you’ll receive a balanced workout. While dancing away to the signature Latin rhythmic music, you’ll be strengthening your body and raising your energy levels at the same time. At her studio Kenyatta & Co., Kelly says, "All of our Zumba fitness formats are for everyone. No matter your level or age, you will be victorious." Zumba itself was created by Alberto "Beto" Perez in the 1990s. The choreography developed by the Colombian-born dancer incorporates elements of hip-hop, samba, merengue, mambo, and salsa.

Ballroom Performance

Developed by Elizabeth Malvasia, the PB-FIT system is a unique form of exercise that utilizes glamorous ballroom movements with strength training, muscle development, and body lengthening. The method is taught at Planet Ballroom Katy. You will be burning calories away, and Malvasia says you’ll feel fabulous while doing it. "Looking, feeling, and being in great shape is a job requirement for me. But after trying so many different things, there was nothing that offered the results that dancing gave me," says Malvasia. Malvasia is most inspired by teaching at Planet Ballroom Katy when she sees the impact it makes on her students. She shares, "Husbands and wives find romance they thought was gone forever. Moms find the spark and passion they felt in their pre-mommyhood life and become superstars. People who were insecure about themselves or their bodies step into the limelight and realize they are perfect." While classic ballroom is performed with a partner, Planet Ballroom Katy's classes allow anyone to join, with or without one. Many different types are offered in order to best suit each student's need, including ballroom, Latin, and swing dance; competitive dance sport; social and hobby dancing; as well as getting couples ready for their big day with wedding dances. Regardless of what form of exercise you choose, what is important is that you find enjoyment in the activity. Malvasia shares, "When a person is dancing, every muscle in their body is working, their heart rate is increased, and they are developing finite skills of coordination and thought process. But they are having such a great time, they don't realize it. They just know that they want to keep dancing." KM

ELIZABETH PADGETT is a professional writer and dance hobbyist that enjoys hip-hop and street dance.

After losing her son in a tragic car crash in 2006, Katy mom Carol Levin is on a mission to end drunk driving

Written by Gail G. Collins | Select photography by Sara Isola

"It's as bad as you think it is," Carol Levin says, describing the loss of her son to a drunk driver. "He was an amazing person, and we’ll live his life in the best way we can. We need that." It's why Levin got involved with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).

Todd Levin was 28 years old and was planning on proposing to his girlfriend Ralynn Healey soon. The couple was returning from a sports activity and dinner out. Todd never drove under the influence, and Healey was training for the Olympics as a figure skater and didn't drink at all. On September 25, 2006 at 10 p.m., a drunk driver shot through a red light going 85 mph in a 35 mph zone. The impact was severe. Suffering two skull fractures and a crushed chest, Todd was killed instantly. Healey died on the way to Ben Taub Hospital. The driver was nearly twice the legal limit and didn't stop to render aid. "It was a horrific accident, and he didn't even know he’d killed two people," Levin says, still in disbelief. After five years in prison, the man shows no remorse. Advised by MADD, Levin undertakes a regular letter-writing campaign, asking authorities to deny his parole. She has been successful twice.

"It was a horrific accident, and he didn't even know he’d killed two people," Levin says, still in disbelief. After five years in prison, the man shows no remorse. Advised by MADD, Levin undertakes a regular letter-writing campaign, asking authorities to deny his parole. She has been successful twice.

Finding Hope and Advocacy The Levin family has lived in Katy for 25 years. Todd graduated from Katy High School with honors, and nearly every teacher attended his funeral almost 10 years ago. Since then, Levin has devoted a major portion of her life to helping others in the same circumstances.

Initially, those who have tragically lost a loved one may be so shocked they don't remember their own names. "Sometimes, you just hold and love them," she says. "We’re all in the same family – the worst kind – and it helps to have been there, too." According to Levin, the pain never goes away. It merely becomes a dull ache. Fortunately, therapy can help those who suffer such loss to cope with their pain. Victims find support through MADD advocates and activities.

Drunk Driving Fatalities MADD Southeast Texas Affiliate executive director John McNamee says, "MADD supports drunk and drugged driving victims and survivors at no charge, serving one person every 10 minutes through local MADD victim advocates and at 1-877-MADD-HELP."

Unfortunately, the state and local community is known by a surprising statistic. "Texas, and specifically Harris County, leads the nation in drunk driving fatalities," says McNamee. "In 2014 MADD Southeast Texas, which includes the Katy area, served over 2,800 victims of drunk driving."

The organization also reaches teens to help prevent underage drinking. One program advises how to start a conversation with youngsters and continue it through their young adult years. National Teen Influencer allows teens to share their commitment to not drink while underage. MADD is involved politically, too. They cite increased law enforcement and bill HB 2246, creating anti-ignition legislation, requiring a convicted drunk driver to blow soberly into a device in order to start their car.

Sharing Their Stories Levin works on this bill's behalf and sits on a monthly victim impact panel, whose venue shifts around the city. The panel consists of victims who tell their stories, a police officer, and those formerly convicted. Drunk drivers run the gamut in ages. Levin brings photographs to help them think seriously about their decisions. To the older drivers, she says, "I impress on them that they’re role models, and if they’re drinking and driving, their kids will be, too."

Kathy Barzilla, another Fort Bend advocate, sits on the panel and acts as an advisory board member. In 1993 while she was on her way to work, when a car traveling 80 mph broadsided her. "If it hadn't been for Life Flight, I wouldn't be here to tell my story," she says. "I’m grateful for each new day."

With her pelvis fractured in six places, Barzilla had to learn how to walk again. Like Levin, she admits that her life changed forever on the day of the accident. Barzilla was told she could never bear children as a result of the accident. She never met the drunk driver who hit her, but Barzilla says she has learned to forgive the driver and in return has been able to let go of the bitterness and anger.

Planning Ahead "Death and injuries are 100% preventable. Just plan ahead," Barzilla says. The only night each year most people actively plan to avoid drunk driving is New Year's Eve, but any time any day, it should be a reality. The women advise others to always have a plan and a number they can call for help.

Every year the group participates in Walk Like MADD, an initiative that gives victims a chance to raise money and awareness while honoring their loved ones. "It takes years to fight your way back," says Levin, and MADD helps people do just that. KM

GAIL G. COLLINS writes internationally for magazines and has two books on expatriate life that create a charity revenue stream.

Editor's Note: We would like to thank the members of MADD Southeast Texas Affiliate for taking a stand and making a difference in the Katy community. Visit madd.org.

KATY, TX – Trendmaker Homes has opened its fully-furnished, luxury model home in Katy's Cane Island where the Houston homebuilder has debuted a larger version of one of its most popular plans more suitable for the master-planned community's larger homesites.

Built with a stucco and stone elevation, Trendmaker's new model home in Cane Island features five bedrooms with a first-floor master suite, 4.5 baths, spacious casual dining area, study, game room, media room, hidden storage area, a three-car garage and covered patio. The new home also features a second bedroom on the first-floor, ideal for use as a guest room, a baby's nursery or mother-in-law suite.

Along with opening its new model, Trendmaker will add 22 new luxury homes in one of Cane Island's secluded, gated sections on 80-foot and larger homesites. Several coveted cul-de-sac homesites also are available. Starting in the $550's, the homebuilder's one and two-story, four and five-bedroom plans range from 3,614 – 4,787 square feet. A 1.5-story plan also is available. Trendmaker Home's model in Katy's Cane Island is open Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.; and Sunday, noon – 6 p.m.

Along with the new Trendmaker model home, Cane Island offers a new model by Perry Homes, now open daily, with others by David Weekley Homes and Coventry Homes opening later this summer. Ryland Homes, Shea Homes and Toll Brothers also will open fully furnished models in the Katy master-planned community.

Construction also continues on Cane Island's Welcome Center, Recreation Center, family pool, poolside cafe, glass-walled conservatory and yoga studio. Other residential neighborhoods, open green spaces, pocket parks and several play areas which pay tribute to the area's history in railroads, oil and gas, farming and other industries also will be added.

Press release courtesy of Kaplan Public Relations

Courtesy of Camp Bow Wow – Pet ownership has proven mental and physical health benefits for humans, including reduced stress, anxiety and loneliness, and increased exercise and social interaction. Our pets are doing many great things for us so it's important to return the favor and make sure we are doing what we can to keep them happy and healthy. Read on for some important pet care tips.

1. Evaluate your pet's poundage. Over half of all pets are overweight which contributes to numerous health problems and can shorten your furry friend's lifespan. Work with your vet to create a weight loss plan if your pet is overweight.

2. Make preventative care a priority. Visit your vet for annual check-ups to stay updated on any relevant health issues and stay current with vaccinations.

3. Read the labels. Many dog foods contain sugar and other ingredients that cause health problems. Your vet can help you determine the food that will best fit your pet's needs. And be sure to follow the food bag's feeding instructions so you don't over-feed your pet.

4. Don't fur-get to brush. Our pets need oral hygiene just like we do, and plaque and tartar build-up can lead to serious health issues. Start preventative care early by brushing teeth and giving them rubber toys to chew on, and opt for professional cleaning when the vet says it's time.

On May 6th, in Addison, TX at the Texas Elks State Association (TESA) State Convention, Tammy Iund was crowned 2015-16 State Sweetheart. Tammy, along with all of the Elks lodges in the Gulf Coast District, raised more money for the Texas Elks Camp than any other district in the state! How much more? Over $40,000 more with a total of more than $119,000!!!! Second place was awarded to the North Central District who raised $78,000 and third place went to Pan —- with $75,000 raised.

Tammy and the Elks Gulf Coast District broke several records this year: The Most Money Raised by a District, The Most Money Raised per Capita ($61.00) and The Most Money Raised by a Lodge ($35,500)!!! As a result of everyone's hard work, more children with special needs will have the opportunity to attend a week at camp at no cost to their family. For more information on the Texas Elks Camp please go to http://www.texaselkscamp.org.

The new Katy Elks Lodge Sweetheart, Ann Powell, is off to a good start in her fund raising efforts for the 2015-16 year. Already scheduled are the ever popular Lip Sync Show on September 12th and the 2nd Annual Sweetheart Dinner and Auction on February 6th. Performances for the Lip Sync show are already in the planning stage and the Auction is taking shape with Sponsor commitments from Cane Island, Vantage Trailers, Hair and There Mobile Hair Salon and Polaris West. Ann's intention for this year is to surpass the impressive records set in the 2014-15 year. In order to do that, she will need your support. How can you help? By attending the Sweetheart functions, helping us spread the word about the Sweetheart projects, and making monetary donations. If you are interested in a corporate sponsorship, please contact Debbie Tharp at 832-622-4638. We would love to see our local Sweetheart advance to District and then State; sending more campers than ever to camp! Since the inception of the Sweetheart program twenty-five years ago, 9 State Sweethearts have been from Katy!

Congratulations to Tammy Iund, 2015-16 TESA State Sweetheart and Good Luck to the current Katy Elk's Lodge Sweetheart, Ann Powell! Lives are changing because of your efforts!

Are you ready to make new friends, try new things, and make this year the best ever? Registration for Girl Scouts of San Jacinto Council is now open for 2015-2016! Please visit us during one of the following walk-in registration sessions, or contact [email protected] for more information.

Saturday, August 22, 2-4 PM St Paul's Episcopal (1936 Drexel Dr., Katy, TX 77493) or Cinco Ranch Lake House (25202 Springwood Lake Dr., Katy, TX 77494)

Tuesday, August 25, 6-8 PM Redeemer Community Church (24201 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Katy, TX 77494)

Wednesday, August 26, 10am-12 PM Living Word Lutheran Church (3700 Mason Rd., Katy, TX 77450)

Thursday, August 27, 2-4 PM Katy Branch Library (5414 Franz Rd., Katy, TX 77493)

Thursday, August 27, 5-7 PM St Peter's United Methodist Church (20775 Kingsland Blvd., Katy, TX 77450)

Saturday, August 29, 1-3 PM Cross Creek Ranch Community Center (6450 Cross Creek Bend Ln., Fulshear, TX 77441)

Monday, August 31, 4:30-6 PM Westland Baptist Church (1407 W. Grand Parkway S., Katy, TX 77494)

Tuesday, September 1, 4-5 PM Fielder Gazebo (Fielder Elementary, 2100 Greenway Village Dr., Katy, TX 77494)

Troop Round-Up Round Up with your new troop parents to organize your troop for the year. Saturday, September 12, 2-4 PM Crosspoint Christian Church (700 Westgreen Blvd, Katy, TX 77450)

Going to a dental office on a regular basis is a crucial aspect of your child's oral care. While you, as your child's parent, know this, the very thought of taking your autistic son or daughter to the dentist can fill you with concern. Many people often feel apprehensive when they go to the dentist, but autistic children can experience sensory overload that can trigger tantrums. Fortunately, there are ways that a family dentist can help make autistic children feel more at ease when they come to the office.

At Kingsland Dental Group, they know how uncomfortable going to the dentist can be for autistic children. They’ve made accommodations, so these children can get the oral care they need in a soothing and calming environment.

Banish Bright Lights There are typically many bright lights in any dental office. These include not only the lights overhead but also the headlamp that the dentist uses. While most people might find them a bit glaring and annoying, an autistic child might start feeling overwhelmed by their presence. Kingsland Dental Group starts by turning off the overhead lights, and they use the headlamp only to peer inside your child's mouth. If possible, they avoid using the headlamp, as well.

Counteract Loud Noises Suction hoses and air or water syringes can make loud noises that can cause highly sensitive autistic children to startle and become distraught. Their soothing music and engaging, slow-moving visual images played on the ceiling can help distract and calm your child.

Provide Security in a Fun Way It is important that your child remain still in the dental chair during the visit, so they use a seat cover that has a fun design. In addition to keeping your child secure, it also provides a calming, deep-pressure hug.

Whether your child needs to be seen for a general check-up or you want to learn more about teeth whitening, Kingsland Dental Group strives to accommodate the dentistry needs of all their patients. They work hard to make each visit to their office as positive as possible.

Katy's centenarian Redell Patterson Scott shares personal experiences from the past century

Written by Holly Leger

Any resident who has lived in Katy for the past decade has seen the city grow and change dramatically. But that's nothing compared to the changes that Redell Patterson Scott has seen. The 105-year-old woman moved to Katy in 1919 and has resided here ever since.

Horse and Buggy Days Scott recalls riding a horse and buggy around the streets of Katy as a young girl. She remembers Katy as a town that was much smaller back then, and the roads were very different from the freeways of today. "It wasn't like this," she says, pointing to the paved streets. "It was muddy."

The only child of Lee Brandy Burg and Estella Sullivan, Scott was raised on a farm. The family grew vegetables and peanuts. While Scott can remember rationing food and gasoline during the Great Depression, she does remember the family's farming business kept them afloat. "It was pretty good for us," Scott says.

Katy Family Homestead Scott married her first husband, Henry Patterson, who worked for the M-K-T Railroad when she was just 16 years old. Together, they had nine children, though two died as infants. After her first husband passed away, she later married Tillman Scott, after the two met at a church event. They raised their combined families together and were married just shy of 50 years.

Of Scott's seven children, four are still living. Henry Patterson Jr. is the oldest sibling at age 87. He lives in Katy and served in World War II. Leonard "L.C." Patterson lives in Houston and is a veteran of the Korean War. Kathryn Hearn lives in California; and Nadine Johnson, the baby of the family at 70 years old, is now retired and living with her mother at the original homestead that Scott built with her first husband in 1936.

Educational Equality For over 50 years, Scott worked as a housekeeper in Katy in order to help provide for her children. In spite of their large family, Johnson says her parents never accepted any welfare assistance and that her mother was determined to give her children the best. "She was always focused on all of her children receiving adequate education," Johnson recalls. "She worked very hard to see that that was accomplished."

Scott even played a key role in integrating schools in the community. Johnson remembers her mother fighting for her and her siblings to continue their secondary education in Katy, rather than being bussed to Cypress Fairbanks, as was custom then for African American residents in Katy. "My mother, along with a group of parents, met with the [school] officials," Johnson says. "They finally were able to attend the schools here in Katy."

Christian Roots Faith is also very important to Scott. She has been a member at Antioch Baptist Church in Katy for most of her life and was an active participant on numerous church boards in the past, including serving as the choir's president for 20 years, not resigning until her 80s. "I loved working in the church," Scott says.

Her active faith has left an impression on many, including her son, Leonard Patterson. "The main thing she instilled in us was living in Christ Jesus," he shares. "She said to get myself right with God. I was raised up in the church, and that's the way I am today."

Legacy of Love Not only does the centenarian have grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She even has great-great-great-grandchildren. But for Scott, having a big family simply means having more opportunities to love. It's a legacy she hopes to leave behind one day. Her advice to the next generation is to do the right thing and to never forget to love others. "I loved my children," Scott says. "I’m sure they all know I love them by the way I treat them and what I do for them. Love each other." KM

HOLLY LEGER is a writer who enjoys every opportunity to experience the past through the eyes of her elders.

Running is great exercise for you and your pup, but as the weather warms up, it's important to take precautions to keep your dog happy and healthy.

Start slow: If Fido has never been out for a run with you, don't expect him to be up for a marathon. Start with a combination of running and walking for a short time until you notice that his endurance is increasing.

Be mindful of the weather: Dogs can overheat very quickly and can suffer heat stroke. If you absolutely must run on a very hot and humid day, go during the early morning hours–between 5 AM and 8 AM– or leave Fido at home.

Watch out for Fido's feet: Pavement and asphalt gets incredibly hot on summer days and can quickly burn your pup's feet. To be safe, only take your dog running on dirt trails, grass, or sand. Stop periodically during your run to check his paws for burns or cuts.

Hydrate: Make sure Fido has had a chance to drink water and hydrate before you take him out on a run. Take a portable water bowl so you can stop and give your pup some water throughout your run.

Keep a watchful eye: Be sure to check on your dog and make sure he doesn't look like he's in pain or suffering from heat exhaustion.

Lather up: Believe it or not, dogs are susceptible to sunburns. If you’re running on a sunny day, be sure to apply sunscreen to both yourself and Fido if your dog has shorter hair or is a lighter color.

Eating before or after running: Make sure that your dog does not eat one hour before or after running. Some dogs are susceptible to bloat and eating too close to exercising can be extremely dangerous.

If it's just too dog gone hot, drop your pup off at Camp Bow Wow (opening in August 2015) so he can romp and play in our climate-controlled play yards, and come home happy and exhausted!

Katy ISD has adopted the Summer Food Service Program, which was created to ensure that children in low-income areas could continue to receive nutritious meals during long school vacations, when they do not have access to school lunch or breakfast.

This program provides nutritious and free meals to children 18 and younger during the summer months. Katy ISD, in particular, will be offering free breakfast and lunch during the summer at six different schools. For locations, date, and times, check the flyer below.

Information courtesy of the Nutrition and Food Service Department of Katy ISD

Shopping for the perfect Father's Day gift? Check out all of these awesome specials going on in the Katy area!

Know of any great Father's Day specials in Katy? Email us at [email protected]!

Written by Kirsten Cornell | Photography by Andy Newman/CCL

Snorkeling among the coral reefs, lounging at the Blue Iguana, hiking through the Mayan Ruins, or attending Broadway-style productions are just a few of the activities patrons aboard the Carnival Freedom excitedly participate in. With voyages averaging as little as $79 a day, families can enjoy five-star vacations at affordable rates. The newest ship in Carnival's fleet to begin sailing from Galveston, the Freedom recently underwent millions of dollars in renovations and boasts more amenities than ever before. "Carnival Freedom is the most significant Fun Ship 2.0 upgrade project we’ve undertaken outside of Carnival Sunshine," says Jennifer de la Cruz, vice president of public relations. "Carnival Freedom is one of the premier ships in our fleet."

Kids on Board With a specific emphasis on entertainment and youth programming, kids and teens will find unlimited activities aboard the Freedom. Their newest revamp of the onboard program, Camp Ocean, divides children ages 2 through 11 into age-appropriate groups and fills their days with tailored activities including crafts, dance parties, scavenger hunts, relays, and more. Teens ages 15 to 17 can oen be found in Club O2, a hangout specifically designed with their age group in mind. "We were noticing a huge drop off in this age group from Camp Carnival, and received feedback that they felt like the program was geared toward the younger passengers," says Vance Gulliksen, public relations manager. "So we developed Club O2 just for teens." Club O2 participants watch movies, listen to music, play sports and video games, join karaoke jam sessions, and attend a pool party or two. Carnival also sets up teen-only shore excursions so they can enjoy the sights at port with their new friends.

Suess at Sea Carnival's newest partnership is with the Cat in the Hat himself. Watch your child's favorite book characters come to life during activities such as the Green Eggs and Ham breakfast with the Cat in the Hat and friends, Seuss-a-Palooza story time, Seuss-a-Palooza parade, and Dr. Seuss Bookville, which is exclusive to the Carnival Freedom and Vista. Take your kiddo to Bookville and sit among Horton, the Lorax, and Sam I Am on Whoville-worthy furniture as you read from Dr. Seuss classics. Make it a point to attend the Green Eggs and Ham breakfast and see the dining room clothed in striped hats, red table cloths, and Seussical décor. A special menu is prepared including Truffula tree pancakes, Horton's French toast, Fox in Socks steak and eggs, and of course, green eggs and ham. Cat in the Hat and friends also make appearances and take photos with guests. Those who are young at heart will enjoy this colorful and fun-filled event.

Decadent Dining One thing cruisers often rave about is the food, and Carnival Freedom is no exception. In addition to their dining rooms and lido buffets, the ship is equipped with multiple dining options. Food Network personality Guy Fieri teams up to bring passengers the best grilled burgers on the high seas. Piled high with toppings and grilled poolside with tantalizing seasonings, Guy's Burger Joint is a must-try.

The Taste Bar is a unique station found along the promenade deck. Pick up a complimentary appetizer before dinner for a taste of something different with a rotating theme each day. Make a reservation at least one evening of your cruise to dine at the Sun King Steakhouse. At only $35 a person, the culinary creations brought to you by gourmet chefs will tickle your taste buds. Choose from buttery lobster bisque, flaky crab cakes, tender filet mignon, or flavor-filled lobster ravioli. The possibilities and combinations are endless.

Destination Wanderlust The Freedom offers six- and seven-day voyages throughout the Caribbean. Add stamps to your passport from exotic locations such as Belize, Costa Maya, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, Honduras, and Jamaica.

Take the guesswork out of choosing port entertainment by utilizing Carnival to book your shore excursions. Filter by experiences, age, activity, duration, and price to pick the best option for your family. Explore secret rivers, catamaran to coral reefs for snorkeling tours of the crystal clear waters, grab a hammock on the white sand beaches, hike through Mayan Ruins, or fly across zip lines with breathtaking views. No matter where your interests lie, there's something for everyone aboard the Carnival Freedom. KM KIRSTEN CORNELL and her husband thoroughly enjoyed Carnival Freedom's maiden Galveston voyage and visited every possible dining option at least once.

For more cruising ideas, visit carnival.com.

The fabulous fun guide for moms, wives, and ladies all over Katy.

Written by Ashley Lancaster Every now and then, it's good to get out and enjoy some fun times with your best girlfriends. Whether you’re discussing a new book, taking part in some retail therapy, or dining at a trendy restaurant, here's a list of delightful ways to relax, recharge, and reconnect in Katy.

LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 281-395-5533 lacenterra.com Enjoy lunch on the patio at D’Amico's Italian Restaurant or dinner at Perry's Steakhouse and grab a sweet treat at Rocket Fizz or the Sweet Boutique before you leave.

Pinot's Palette 2910 Commercial Center Blvd., #102 pinotspalette.com Bring your friends and your favorite bottle of wine for some painting. They offer weekday classes and rooms for private parties.

Schakolad Chocolate Factory 2020 S. Fry Rd. 832-321-3580 schakolad.com Schedule a chocolate-making class and learn the art of crafting delicious treats.

Santikos Palladium 7301 Grand Pkwy.santikos.com Work on your strike at the bowling lanes and try some delicious gelato before a show. Get treated like a star with in-theater dining – they bring your gourmet meal directly to you.

Brookwood Community 1752 FM 1489, Brookshire brookwoodcommunity.org Just a short drive from Katy, the gift shop, gardens, and award-winning café are the perfect spot to have lunch with the girls.

Salata Katy 1230 Mason Rd., #200 281-394-9292 salata.com Mix and match your favorite toppings from over 50 fresh ingredients to create a delicious, guilt-free salad or wrap.

Hauerland's 1648 S. Mason Rd. 281-395-4595 2717 Commerical Center Blvd., #150D 281-394-9272 Shop with the girls at this unique boutique that carries specialty gifts and collectibles with popular brands like Pandora, Vera Bradley, and more.

Mary Jo Peckham Park 5597 Gardenia Ln. pct3.hctx.net Bring a few healthy snacks and challenge friends and family to a game of mini golf.

Villagio Town Center 22764 Westheimer Pkwy. Stop for a treat at Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt or spice up your girl's night with upbeat Latin and Salsa music and international cuisine at Babaloo International Café on Latin Fridays.

Planet Ballroom Katy 1315 Grand Pkwy., #104 832-437-5416 planetballroom.com Master a fun new skill by learning the tango, waltz, cha cha, Salsa, jive, swing, country, and more. You don't have to have a designated partner to take a class.

Tiger-Rock Martial Arts of Katy 625A S. Mason Rd. 281-829-9300 katytkd.com Groups of ve to 10 can sign up for a self-defense course that builds confidence as you learn how to be prepared for any situation. Schedule a weekend class or ask them to come to you! Call for availability.

The Cellar Door 829 S. Mason Rd. cellardoorkaty.com Have a friendly gathering with your closest friends and sip a glass of wine in an intimate, relaxed setting. They have an extensive menu with everything from sweet whites to port style varieties and daily wine tastings until 6 p.m.

Alamo Drafthouse 531 S. Mason Rd. drafthouse.com Have a fun, silly girls night and check out an entertainment event like the totally ‘80s, ultimate ‘90s or Pitch Perfect sing-along night, big screen classics night with films like My Fair Lady and Gone with the Wind, and quote-along nights to your favorite comedies like Anchorman and Wayne's World.

Katy Budget Books 2450 Fry Rd. 281-578-7770 katybooks.com Avid readers can join one of the many book clubs available like Mystery Matters or I’ll Take Romance and spend one hour a week discussing details of their favorite genres.

Historic Katy Fun Don't forget these Old Katy faves!

Multiplicity 1306 Avenue A 832-437-2442 multiplicity.co Attend ladies night out on the second Wednesday of every month. There will be a fun craft and free adult refreshments.

KT Antiques 5614 2nd St. 281-391-2299 ktantiques.net Originally Katy's oldest supermarket and located in the heart of historic downtown Katy, this antique and collectibles shop is perfect for an outing with the girls. Check out their annual spring ladies’ night out on May 7 or the Katy market days on the third Saturday of every month.

Katy Contemporary Arts Museum 805 Avenue B 832-857-1340 katycam.com With art classes and a beautiful gallery of unique pieces, this is the perfect place to find inspiration. Admission is free.

Junk Street Market 5625 2nd St. 281-391-5865 Gather inspiration for your own DIY project, get a quote on having old furniture revitalized, or just go ahead and purchase one of the gorgeously renovated pieces available in the store.

The Cottage Door 1001 Avenue B 281-391-1222 thecottagedoor.com Need to find the perfect gift? Visit this cozy little shop nestled in lush greenery in historic Katy and choose a gift from a wide selection of brands like Camille Beckman, Michel Designs, Poo Pouri, Naked Bee, and more.

This is only a sampling of fun places to go for a girls’ night out in Katy. For more activities, restaurants, and shops, visit KatyMagazine.com

Two years ago, a terrorist's bomb at the Boston Marathon blew Rebekah Gregory's life apart. Now, the local mom is using the tragedy to inspire others and live a life without limits.

Written by Susanna Donald | Select photography courtesy of Rebekah Gregory

When the first bomb exploded at the finish line of the 2013 Boston Marathon, Rebekah Gregory and her 5-year-old son, Noah, were just three feet away. They were waiting to see her boyfriend's mom cross the finish line, and Noah was bored. "It was so crowded, and I wanted to keep him right by me," she recalls. "I told him to sit on my feet and pretend he was a scientist looking at rocks in the pavement." That decision saved Noah's life. Moments later, Gregory's legs shielded her son from the brunt of a massive explosion that killed three, injured more than 260 others, and filled the nation with an all-too-familiar fear.

The Blast The blast hoisted Gregory into the air. When she landed, she looked down and thought her legs were completely gone. "All I was thinking was, ‘Where's Noah?’" she says. "My eardrums were blown, but somehow I could hear Noah screaming ‘Mommy! Mommy!’ somewhere behind me."

The Aftermath When she reached for him, she saw bones jutting out through a gaping wound in her hand. Chaos and trauma was surrounded by fragments of bone and bomb. "I prayed, ‘Lord, if this is my time, take me, but let me know Noah is okay.’" When someone brought Noah to her side, she believed it was a sign that it was her time to go.

The Battle Begins Doctors placed Gregory in a medically-induced coma for a week. "The first person I saw when I woke up was my mom," she remembers. "I wrote a note because I couldn't talk with the tube in my throat. I wrote, ‘God isn't finished with me yet.’" Both of Gregory's legs were injured, along with her hand, and the left leg was all but destroyed. The bomb obliterated muscle, nerves, and half of her fibula. Noah suffered a deep cut on his right leg, shrapnel in the back of his head, and some internal bleeding. He was out of the hospital in five days, while Gregory's battle was just beginning.

Losing a Leg After 39 days in Boston, Gregory moved to Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital where Dr. William McGarvey took over the monumental task of helping her keep her leg. "We discussed amputation at the beginning, but Rebekah was initially committed to trying to preserve the limb," says Dr. McGarvey, who performed seven of the 17 surgeries Gregory had on her left leg. But her continued pain and disability became very burdensome. "My leg is not my life," says Gregory. "I said that from the beginning. After the 17th surgery, I realized how silly it was to be holding onto something that was only holding me back from getting on with my life." Her pain was constant and excruciating, despite multiple daily doses of pain medication, and she was mostly confined to a wheelchair. More surgeries loomed on the horizon, but none promised that she would be free from pain or that she would walk again.

The Goodbye Party In November, Gregory went to see Dr. McGarvey for a routine follow-up. She told him matter-of-factly, "I’m ready for my amputation." The surgery was scheduled for November 10. With her trademark optimism, Gregory threw a goodbye party for her leg, treating it to one last pedicure. "It was a celebration," she says. "And I was so relieved when I woke up from the surgery. I thought I would be scared, but it really was like the biggest weight was lifted off of me. My life wasn't in limbo anymore."

Inspiring Others In between rehabilitation, training, and being a full-time mom, Gregory also travels around the world sharing her inspiring story. "I realized after the bombing that I had been given a platform," she says. "I don't want to waste it. I want to do my own small part in changing the world for the better. I feel like this is my purpose."

Life Without Limits For Gregory, life without her leg isn't defined by her limitations. "My bucket list? It's unlimited," she laughs. "I want to run the marathon of course. But I want to travel, to climb mountains, to do anything and everything I can, and not take a moment for granted." And she doesn't. She smiles as she talks about walking around the mall for the first time, or going up the stairs in her house. "I didn't want to get blown up, but now I get to hug my son a little tighter, and love my family a little more, and really value every minute." KM SUSANNA DONALD is a freelance writer who lives in Fulshear with her husband and two sons.

A handful of dedicated Katy High School students eagerly await the rush of teachers and staff to come. The time is 10:15 AM. With tables decorated, and salad, desserts and 30 pizza boxes set out, KHS Student Council is ready to host their second annual Teacher Luncheon.

The previous year, a simple pizza lunch was served solely to teachers and hailed as the first time the entirety of the teachers had been fed students.

This year they upped the ante. Teachers, office staff, paraprofessionals, custodians, nurses, cafeteria workers, KHS parent volunteers and other faculty were invited to attend the "Teacher Luncheon". Every staff member here has a hand in the students’ education and deserve to be honored.

Starting in January, the preparation began as KHS Student Council Members Kat Rogers, Kaitlin Miller, Olivia Williams, Marie Ann Barron, and Piper Harris ventured to local businesses in request of donations. Most impressive was the collective 75 pizzas donated by Pizza Shoppe, Cici's, and Pizza Inn.

KHS Student Council's exponential growth and success since its meagre state three years previous has been through a multitude of projects around Katy High School and the Katy Community. Eager to continue its vision and tradition, Katy students look forward to partnering with even more local businesses and projects to keep Katy beautiful.

Courtesy of: Kaitlin Miller Class of 2015 KHS Student Council Vice President

School officials and politicians are normally at the helm of discussions on the state of education, but Houston Community College is providing an opportunity for Katy moms to chime in. In an informal and filmed discussion, HCC gathered Katy mom bloggers and social media influencers to discuss their concerns and possible solutions to pressing issues in areas of education such as standardized testing and college affordability. The college gave the women a platform to voice their opinions and will dedicate an entire week allowing the community to chime in.

Their discussion will be aired on the college's social media channels from May 4 until Mother's Day, May 10. The social media community at-large will also be able to interact with this discussion by adding their thoughts to the HCC posts or using the hashtag #KatyMomsChat.

"Engaging with our communities is important," said Dr. Zachary Hodges, HCC Northwest president. "In education, we need more external voices to contribute to the internal work in our classrooms. So, we’re hoping that the #Katymomschat project will give us new ideas to enhance the learning environment for our students. Katy has a rich learning environment and continues to be a great partner in our education efforts."

Since 1979, HCC has provided education and opportunity to Katy residents. Almost 4,000 Katy Independent School District students attend HCC. A booming dual credit program in Katy ISD enables students to earn college credit while still in high school at a discounted tuition rate. As with all communities that the college serves, HCC has a strong connection to Katy and is active in groups such as the Katy Chamber of Commerce, Katy ARTreach, Katy Visual & Performing Arts Center, Katy ISD and the Katy Economic Development Council.

"Education is a very important topic that gets me excited," said Rebecca Fox, Katy ISD board member. "Parents have a lot of opinions on what kind of education their child is getting and to be able to discuss those topics with other passionate moms is incredible. Houston Community College is an important piece in figuring out that puzzle and has been instrumental in giving families options."

Katy is representative of the skyrocketing growth that continues across the Houston-area. Katy ISD is the second fastest growing district in the state and is adding nearly 3,000 new students each year. Over 70,000 students are currently enrolled in Katy ISD and that number is expected to soar to nearly 95,000 by 2023. The school district is nearly three times the size of Washington, D.C. and experiencing a population boom as more people move in. New housing construction reflects that trend as the number of students added to the district because of subdivisions being actively built has grown by 81 percent since 2013.

Courtesy of: HCC and Katy Moms Chat, you can visit their website: hccs.edu/katymomschat

Nikki Wood– University of Montevallo in Alabama and will play Division II lacrosse on a scholarship.

Samantha Farrell– University of Montevallo in Alabama and will play Division II lacrosse on a scholarship.

Marisa Braden– University of Texas, Club lacrosse

Tobi Dipelou– University of Oklahoma, Club lacrosse

Their program continues to grow and has a number of former players playing college lacrosse. Currently their program has three former players playing lacrosse at the college level. They also have a number of girls who have continued to play at the club level at their college.

Courtney Brown– Liberty University, Division I, 2013 class

Katy Brown– Concordia University, Division III, 2013 class

Lacey Bowersox– Southwestern University, Division II, 2014 class

Bethany Moore – Texas Tech University, Club lacrosse, 2014 class

Mallory Claypool – University of Texas, Club lacrosse, 2014 class

Courtesy of: Katy Cavaliers Boys & Girls Lacrosse Club 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Suite H-120, Box 278, Katy, Texas 77494. www.katycavalierlacrosse.org

Dear Editor,

I married a beautiful lady here in Katy, last December. She encouraged me to write poetry, after my brain surgery a year ago, to keep my mind (what's left of it) sharp. So I began to try & then began to post what I wrote on my Facebook page.

I call them T.P.O.T.D, which stands for "The Poem Of The Day" in abbreviation. I refer to my postings as "Fruit from the Poet's Tree" and today's plucking was inspired by how much I’ve come to love Katy. I was born in Austin & still maintain a house there. I tell Roxanna (my sweet, amazing bride) that it's now our vacation home, since we are in Katy the vast majority of our time.

I’ll always love Austin too, but never wrote a poem about it. That brings me to why I am writing "a letter to the editor". Below is my T.P.O.T.D. I hope this doesn't waste your time. I appreciate your efforts to publish a fine magazine, which I always enjoy reading.

My T.P.O.T.D.:

Katy Was a Rail-Road Town Back when folks were "West-ward HOO & Bound!" looking for a future & a brand new town to found. And I certainly should mention: 'twas the Missouri Kansas Texas extension, called then by the old brand of "Union Pacific – Southern Branch" It went passing along & thru quite a few farms to market &/or ranch, soon, that name got grounded & dropped out of contention, in favor of a line that became simply known as the M.K.T. Folks in Texas just liked the way that "M.K.T." sounded. Yes, most of them would agree.

As the Metro-plex of Houston grew & Katy, Texas was still brand new, just how fast Katy would grow? Who knew? But it sure would not be slow.

As the railroad started laying tracks back in 1895, The town that James Oliver Thomas was busy laying out, began to come alive! Giving it the name of Katy, He knew that it would thrive, long before that first M.K.T. railroad train was scheduled to arrive. Expecting vast prosperity, folks began to come. either by the new locomotives, or in wagon-trains came some.

The original depot station still stands & holds the memory of the founders, then filled with elation, That made Katy come to be. So, if in the vicinity, stop in so you can see the beauty long ago brought here by the M.K.T. _______________________________ Yours Truly, George Knaak

Growing up in Katy was one of the best things my parents could have done for me. I was raised a Winborn Eagle, A Katy Tiger, and a member of girl scouts, KYF, and more. Although I didn't get to fulfill my dream of being a Katy Tiger, I was still able to appreciate everything Katy had to offer. However, besides a great education and amazing town experiences from little league games to the Katy Rice Harvest Festival, my most favorite treasures are my friends.

Diane Winborn Eagles to Texas A&M Aggies (Left to Right: Ashley McElmurry ’15, Brecklyn Gordon ’15, and Stephanie Ellis ’15)

At the age of four years old, my parents enrolled me in Williamsburg Country Day School and it was there that I met some of my best friends. Soon after, I began my six years at Diane Winborn Elementary, and met some of the best friends that I still have today.

Growing up in Katy made it easy to grow with these friends. We all did girl scouts and attended local town events. We joined the community and participated in almost everything together, even leaving home. Fast forward through high school, and we have arrived at June 2011. We all graduated from High School and were ready to leave Katy. Most of us went to the same place, the place I have called home for the past four years.

One by one, we all traveled to College Station. Some of us went straight to Texas A&M and some of us enrolled at Blinn in hopes to one day be an Aggie. With all these people here, the transition was supposed to be easy. However, I found myself missing home. I started going home a lot, and taking advantage of all of my childhood experiences. I went and rode the rides at the Rice Harvest Festival, sat at Starbucks in La Centerra, and walked around Katy Mills Mall as if I was 13 again. Although this was fun and all, I knew I had to let go, and fully immerse myself in this Aggie town. Lucky for me, I still had a few of my best friends left with me to make these past couple of years easier.

As my roommate and hometown best friend was receiving her ring the other day, it dawned on me that I had to do something I have never done before. I needed to stop and appreciate everything my hometown has done for me. It brought me friends for life and as we all realize that we are permanently connected through the Aggie Network, we acknowledge the fact that we are connected from our hometown roots as well.

Now as a senior in college, I can say that it is time to come home. When I graduated high school I thought I was ready to leave my little home called Katy, Texas. Now, as a more wise soon to be college graduate I can say that I finally appreciate home. So from Katy to College Station, and back home again I go.

By Ashley McElmurry

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Assisted Living for Seniors 281-249-7150 The continuing care neighborhood at Eagle's Trace in West Houston offers assisted living and specialized, secure memory care for seniors with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. Your parents will benefit from the customized assisted living and memory care based on a holistic assessment of their needs. And you will enjoy priceless peace of mind and the financial flexibility of a monthly rental with no large entrance deposit. Call 218-249-7150 today for availability.

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The Spanish Learning Castle Experience 832-437-6479 | facebook.com/spanishlearningcastle A new Spanish immersion preschool has opened in Katy. Their program is designed to incorporate the Spanish language for children who don't speak Spanish or reinforce the language for those who do. Their activities enable your child to learn and have fun. While practicing early childhood education concepts like following instructions, social skills and math, their day is filled with group activities which include singing and playing games outside.

Katyites Steven and Stephanie Poss’ premature son Beckham faces a life-threatening "medical mystery" and survives

Written by Stephanie Poss | Select photography by Kristen Richards

It's been said, "You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have." The greatest news in the world was that our family of three would be growing to a family of four. Beckham Neil Poss was due to arrive in mid-October 2013. As any expecting parents, my husband Steven and I could not be happier. We immediately started preparing his room and our daughter for the change of not being an only child anymore. During pregnancy, I threw up so much I ended up on complete bed rest. I went into preterm labor in early August, and we began shots to help build his lungs and trying to stop the labor.

On August 24 Beckham arrived, weighing just over five pounds. Beckham was quickly rushed to the NICU. When a child is born, you want to hold and cuddle them, but a NICU mom can't. Each day he improved. As parents, we lived for the few times we got to hold Beckham. We struggled to not feel helpless. One month after being born, he was released to go home. He was strong enough, or so we thought.

The Longest Days I have never felt more ill-prepared than when I took Beckham home for the first time. Something in my heart kept telling me he was not ready, but I tried to silence that voice because the doctors believed he was. On October 1, 2013, I woke up excited to celebrate my birthday and found out it would be the toughest day of my life.

I was holding Beckham as he was sleeping and noticed a strange violent movement. It was like nothing I had seen before. I called the doctor's office, trying not to sound crazy. As I was on the phone, Beckham went into a seizure again and stopped breathing. The nurse dispatched 911 to my house and walked me through how to help him. All I could do was try to follow her directions and pray God would take over. After many tests at Texas Children's West Campus, it was decided Beckham needed more intense treatment at Texas Children's in the Medical Center in the Level II NICU. My husband and I had no answers.

The doctors did not know what was wrong. All we were told is he was a "medical mystery." I have always been a Christ follower, but I never knew what it meant to truly trust the Lord with my whole heart until He was truly the only thing keeping my son alive. There in the NICU, we begged God to save him. In the depths of our despair, we clung to the miracles that began to unfold. A sorority sister I had not seen in close to 10 years showed up and had a blanket made for Beckham that was blessed at a church. This became the one thing that never left his side. This same friend was able to help get us into the Ronald McDonald House so we could stay close by.

Katy Support As the days in the hospital turned into months, we saw an outpouring of support. Taylor High School students had a fundraising week. They had meals, made shirts, had dodgeball tournaments – you name it, they did it for us. They raised over $8,000 to help us with our bills. Taylor and our church, Parkway Fellowship, set up a meal calendar providing dinners from October through January. The Houston Aces soccer team dedicated their preseason to Beckham. The Joe Joe Bear Foundation brought Beckham and Brooklyn gifts. Musician Justin Michael Bell did a benefit show. Friends and family cleaned our home.

Waiting for Answers My sister-in-law had a great idea to set up a Facebook page so we could update it, and then all of our friends and family could see what was going on without us having to talk about the details repeatedly. She also set up a medical fundraising page and gifts started to pour in for our little warrior. As bills were mounting, and all of our resources were depleting, my husband and I prayed about what to do next. We still were no closer to any answers.

The best minds in medicine could not figure him out. All we had been given was a medical label of "failure to thrive" – a label the doctors gave him, but we would not allow them to speak in Beckham's room. Yet my husband and I both felt a peace that can only come from our heavenly Father. We were reassured Beckham was going to live. In November, Beckham was released to come home with a feeding tube and a home health nurse. The thought of having medical staff in my home was horrible, but I tried to remember that it would be better than not having him home. The next day we met Tara, Beckham's home health nurse, one of the angels who touched our lives.

Tara was a member of the family from the first moment we met her. She taught my daughter how to turn the feeding tube on and off and how to use the stethoscope. Beckham was on specialized formula because he could not digest. Once we were out of the hospital, our insurance denied this. Our formula bills were almost as much as our mortgage. We were struggling. Steven and I began to sell items, give private coaching lessons, anything we could do. In December, Beckham got the flu and was hospitalized again. The staff at the Texas Children's West Campus became friends. We got to come home and then he was sick again and was hospitalized until two days before Christmas.

Friends and Miracles As parents, you worry not only about the health of your children, but also their happiness. With all funds depleted and no end in sight, we were burdened with not making our mortgage and celebrating Christmas. Again, God reminded us to "be still and know that I am God" (Psalms 46:10). The next day Brian Bruenke, one of our pastors told me they felt led to pay our mortgage. Our spirits were renewed. God was keeping us going. A group of friends from Taylor High School brought gifts for my children.

I had to quit my position as a teacher at Taylor High School. In an amazing turn of events, Dagley Insurance and Marcus Henneke offered me a position which allowed me to work from the hospital. With Beckham still needing home health, we wanted to get back to normal. Katie Collins, a previous student of mine, just happened to be working at my daughter's day care at the time. She became Beckham's nannie so I could work full-time. We were told Beckham would have to be on a feeding tube for at least a year.

If he was ever strong enough to be off it he would need a massive amount of therapy. By April, only six months after being on the feeding tube, Beckham began to have oral feedings. A few months later he was tube free. Today, weighing 23 hard-earned pounds, Beckham is completely caught up to his peers! A true miracle. KM

Editor's Note : Katy Magazine would like to thank the Poss family for sharing their amazing story of hope and faith with the community.

Katy couples whose love has withstood decades share how living happily ever after is not a fairy tale, but a choice of commitment

Written by Tassie Hewitt | Select photography by Juliana Evans

Demanding jobs, health issues, and money worries might mean the honeymoon is over for some couples, but these Katy husbands and wives have found the secret to wedded bliss. They agree that while falling in love is easy, staying in love requires commitment and hard work. It was 1941 when Boyd and Emily Baker met at a Christmas party in Flint, Michigan. "I was asked to sing ‘White Christmas,’" says Boyd, who was 15 at the time.

"About the middle of the song, I looked down and there was a pretty young lady in a blue flowered dress. It was love at first sight." Emily, age 13 at the time, grew up as the oldest of 17 children in her family. The couple courted for seven years, during which time Boyd went away to college and was drafted into the Navy. "Every time I returned, she was there," says Boyd, who grew up during the Great Depression. "I never had anyone as faithful in my life. I was lucky." The couple, now married 66 years, started out living in a 500-square-foot trailer at a time when $13 bought a week's worth of groceries.

Boyd, pastor emeritus at Grace Fellowship United Methodist Church, believes couples today need an "attitude of gratitude" and mutual trust to keep their marriages strong. He recently authored a book titled, A Pocket Full of Prayers. "I think they start out getting too much," says Boyd. "In Katy, we’re economically in good condition. I don't think people appreciate what comes too easy." Five children, nine grandchildren, and two great grandchildren later, Boyd says even at ages 88 and 86, he and his wife still enjoy being together. "I see her asleep, and I thank God," says Boyd. "I have a heartfelt feeling of love today and in a different way than before. I think God had his hand in all of this."

To Love and to Cherish "Putting one another first before anyone or anything has been the success of our marriage," says Dusti Luna, a kindergarten teacher at Morton Ranch Elementary who has been married to her husband, Pete, who works for the Department of Public Safety, for 20 years. "We do sweet little gestures to keep the romance alive." "I know it sounds crazy, but I saw her in class and I just knew she was the one," says Pete, who met Dusti in college. "It was just something in my heart." Three years later he snuck into her apartment while she was in the bathroom, placed a ring on her dresser, and hid in her closet.

When she found the ring, he jumped out of the closet, got down on one knee, and popped the question. "He's my rock," says Dusti, who didn't know anyone when she first moved to Katy. "The minute I met him he started protecting me. He took care of me then, and he still does." Dusti says good communication and respect for each other are the keys to a successful marriage. The Lunas learned when they were newly married and facing the challenge of having opposite work schedules that it is important for couples to have quality time to share conversation and focus on each other. "We would make date nights, and his mom would watch the kids," she says.

"There are a lot of people who stay married for comfort, but we truly want to be together. We want to travel; we love to go dancing." The Lunas have two children who attend Katy High School – Austin, 18, and Cheyenne, 15. "We’re constantly teaching our son to treat his girlfriend with respect, and we’re modeling for our daughter how she should be shown respect," says Dusti.

In Sickness and in Health For some couples, it is the challenges that make their marriage stronger. When Nancy and Steve McMillan met at work over 35 years ago, they never dreamed the obstacles they would face as a married couple. "It's one of those things where you just know," says Steve about when the pair met. "I came around the corner, and she was about 15 feet away. All the air went out of me. I never really believed in that before, but it sure happened to me." "He asked me out to lunch, and the rest is history," says Nancy, a secretary in the communications department at Katy ISD.

"He still takes my breath away." Steve, who works for a wireless network company, is a two-time cancer survivor who battled leukemia in 1995 and colon cancer in 2008. Through the tough times, the couple relied on their faith, family, and friends to keep tman, and he's very faithful," says Nancy who believes the secret to a good marriage is putting God first. "That makes me want to be faithful." Part of what keeps the couple strong is their desire to have fun together, even long after the children, Sarah, 28, and Stephen, 31, have grown. They make it a point to have dinner with each other every night. They stay connected with phone calls during the day.

"The secret to a good marriage is wanting it to succeed and not throwing it away when it gets hard," says Nancy. "We were really challenged, and it brought us so much closer. It made our marriage stronger." Steve's advice to young married couples is to be committed to common goals and to remember what they loved about each other at the beginning of their relationship. "It's a growing thing," says Steve. "Nobody gets where we are the first five, 10, or 15 years."

For Richer or for Poorer Some couples not only grow old together, they grow up together. "It was love at first sight," says Ross Ramos, when he and Margie met at a café in the summer of 1969. The teenage sweethearts dated a short time before Ross, then 17, proposed. "I was baby-sitting," says Margie, who was only 16 at the time. "He came to see me and said we were going to get married." Soon after, the couple moved to Houston to start new jobs. "I remember packing our few belongings into a Ford Mustang. Our first challenge was working toward paying our rent and bills and having money," says Margie who is now vice president of real estate loan Nancy hem strong.

"Steve is a fighter. He's a strong, godly man, and he's very faithful," says Nancy who believes the secret to a good marriage is putting God first. "That makes me want to be faithful." Part of what keeps the couple strong is their desire to have fun together, even long after the children, Sarah,28, and Stephen, 31, have grown. They make it a point to have dinner with each other every night. They stay connected with phone calls during the day. "The secret to a good marriage is wanting it to succeed and not throwing it away when it gets hard," says Nancy. "We were really challenged, and it brought us so much closer. It made our marriage stronger."

Steve's advice to young married couples is to be committed to common goals and to remember what they loved about each other at the beginning of their relationship. "It's a growing thing," says Steve. "Nobody gets where we are the first five, 10, or 15 years." For Richer or for Poorer Some couples not only grow old together, they grow up together. "It was love at first sight," says Ross Ramos, when he and Margie met at a café in the summer of 1969. The teenage sweethearts dated a short time before Ross, then 17, proposed. "I was baby-sitting," says Margie, who was only 16 at the time. "He came to see me and said we were going to get married."

Soon after, the couple moved to Houston to start new jobs. "I remember packing our few belongings into a Ford Mustang. Our first challenge was working toward paying our rent and bills and having money," says Margie who is now vice president of real estate loan operations at Wallis State Bank. "We started out with nothing." The Ramos’, who have three daughters, all graduates from Katy High School, Laura, 44, Tammy, 40, and Melissa, 32, just celebrated their 45th anniversary and owe the success of their marriage to hard work, patience, and good communication. "We’re so much alike," says Margie. "My husband is a very hard worker and so am I. We’re both from the same background and come from the country. Everything we have today is because of both of us working."

When they are not working, the couple enjoys spending time at their horse ranch and traveling. Yearly weeklong cruises and vacations at resorts keep them connected. Even though it has been decades since they said "I do," the couple looks forward to retiring together and moving into the country. Margie says, "We both feel young at heart." Though life can challenge any marriage, the decades these couples have spent together made them grow closer instead of apart. They respect, protect, and love each other. They never give up. KM

TASSIE HEWITT is a freelance writer who believes in true love, and is inspired by her parents who are still on their honeymoon 52 years later.

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Katy artist Kathleen Wedemeyer makes it her business to turn other people's trash into treasure and inspires with her messages of hope and faith

Written by Tassie Hewitt | Select Photography by Country Park Portraits

What started as a hobby 25 years ago for crafty Katy resident, Kathleen Wedemeyer, turned into her livelihood and passion, as demand for her handmade antique vintage creations took her artwork out of local craft shows and into homes across the country. She dutifully named her brand, Hope and Glory.

Hope and Glory The artist, who makes an art out of turning junk into gems, admits to being creative from a young age. "I remember going through trash cans at the house and wondering what I could make out of stuff," she says. She once sold Christmas ornaments made out of dried okra to supplement her family income. "I can almost pick up a stick off the ground and make something out of it."

Wedemeyer, who has a background in commercial art, scavenges thrift stores for old silver and jewelry for use in her work. The frugal artist, who professes to being cheap at heart, transforms antique ceiling tile and discarded bead board into the collection of crosses, architectural angels, collages, and frames, for which she is so well known.

"I love metal," she says. Wedemeyer studied welding so she could expand the scope of her work. "I love rusty metal that tells a story because it's been through the process of time.

Where the Heart Is Katy became home to Wedemeyer after her business grew and her old neighborhood's deed restrictions stifled her creativity. She needed space to spread out and allow storage for her growing collection of materials. "I bought a big trailer full of ceiling tin one time, and I was thinking, ‘How am I going to get that home?’" she says. "So then, I just bought the trailer, too."

The artist, whose one-acre backyard in Old Katy is home to chickens and dogs, vintage bikes, and a ’70s travel trailer, grew up in southeast Houston, but does not regret her move to Katy 15 years ago. "Old Katy still feels like a small town," she says. "I love this house. It has character."

Wedemeyer's 2,000 square-foot workshop, located behind her historic home, is crammed with bits and scraps and pieces of her finds. The workshop was built by her architect husband, Ron. It's where she spends at least three days a week creating the artwork she hopes will inspire purchasers. It is also where her husband taught her to use power tools, a skill that launched her business in a whole new direction.

Finding Inspiration Wedemeyer finds inspiration for her work everywhere. "There are times I will hear a message at church and thatwill become a banner one of my angels is holding," she says. "There are dark things in life, and people need hope."

In 2011, the owners of Creative Co-OP discovered Wedemeyer's artwork and asked permission to reproduce some of her more popular pieces. As a result, Hope and Glory licensed creations can be found in stores throughout the country, as well as online. "I even have little crosses at Buc-ee's, now," Wedemeyer laughs. "It was a nice opportunity to take some things off my plate so I could go on to create new things." Despite her accomplishments, Wedemeyer says it is important not to judge success in purely economic terms. "There have been many shows I went to and didn't make a penny, and yet I met a new best friend," she says. Her artwork is more about the message than the money. "I love the power of words to inspire people. I hope to glorify God in what I do. He is the master artist, and we’re all His masterpieces."

Giving Back When she is not creating or selling her artwork, Wedemeyer finds time to share her enthusiasm for art with the community. She teaches Power Tools 101 in her workshop where she empowers women with the courage and skills to master the sander, drill press, and nail gun. She hosts art workshops and retreats and belongs to the Rowdy Art Sisters art club where members meet to trade techniques and stir up each other's creativity. She has a passion for mentoring other artistic women. Above all, Wedemeyer cherishes the oneof-a-kind in art and in life and has the ability to find beauty in anything. "I think every person you meet has a treasure inside," she says. "I love mining for treasure." KM

TASSIE HEWITT is a freelance writer who believes in angels and the power of words.

Katy, TX News (January 29, 2015) – The City of Katy has selected Blackboard Connect™, a leading mass notification platform, to facilitate important communication and emergency preparedness. The first community-wide test call will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2015. A test call to business will launch at 2 pm and the test call to residents will launch at 6:30 pm.

The City of Katy implemented Blackboard Connect so that officials can stay connected to residents and efficiently provide them with direction in the event of severe weather warning, planned and unplanned all-hazard events or community events as well. Using Blackboard Connect, officials can record and send an unlimited number of personalized voice messages to home phones, businesses, local agencies and mobile phones in just minutes. The service also sends email, text messages (SMS) to mobile phones and posts on Facebook, RSS feeds and Twitter channels. Messages can also be sent to TTY/TDD devices for people who are hearing impaired.

"Keeping our community safe and informed is our top priority, which is why we need to be able to communicate with residents quickly in an urgent situation," said Maria Galvez, City of Katy's Emergency Management Coordinator. "Katy•Connect, powered by Blackboard Connect enables us to communicate efficiently with residents in just a matter of minutes, helping save valuable time, use resources efficiently and protect our community."

City officials can target each message to an unlimited number of groups. Authorized users can also use the system's geo-mapping and group subscription features to contact residents based on specific geographical locations and interests, helping ensure recipients receive relevant, targeted information.

"With Katy•Connect – powered by Blackboard, we know our residents are receiving the information that matters most to them, whether it's an urgent situation or routine community update," said Mrs. Galvez. "I strongly encourage residents to register their contact information and update their message preferences into the system's secure database so they are prepared to receive important notifications."

Publicly available primary residential and business phones in the City of Katy will automatically be included in the system. However, to ensure the City has the most up-to-date contact information, including cell phone numbers and email addresses, residents should visit the City of Katy website at www.cityofkaty.com and click on the link that says "SIGN UP NOW – SERVICES BY BLACKBOARD CONNECT" in the KatyConnect portal and provide their complete contact information. Users should also manage their message preferences by indicating their preferred mode of contact, language and message topics. You may also opt-in to receive information directly from the PARKS & RECREATION portal as well as PUBLIC WORKS. Those without Internet access are encouraged to call 281-574-8638 to provide their current information. Residents with call blocking services should add that phone number to their approved number list to ensure they receive important notifications from the city. All opted-in SMS messages will be sent from a 23177 or 63079 number.

"Targeted communication is the best way to keep residents safe and allows them to receive the information that matters most to them," said Ed Miller, president of Blackboard's administrative platform group. "With Blackboard Connect, administrators can ensure the right messages get to the right people."

For more information about Blackboard Connect, please visit http://www.blackboard.com/connect.

Five difficult conversations parents need to have with their kids, and how to know when to have them

Written by Kirsten Cornell and Katrina Katsarelis

Talking to our kids is usually an enjoyable experience, but there are some topics that make many parents uneasy. Should you be the one to bring up these topics or wait for your child to approach the subject? Here are some of the most common tough talks as well as tips from the experts to help guide you.

Body Parts From as early as infancy, kids are interested in learning about their own bodies. They may notice the differences between boys and girls and be naturally curious. According to the experts, the best way to address this topic is to take a matter-of-fact approach. Use the correct names for body parts and answer questions openly and on the child's level of understanding. "Children will often take their cues from adults," says Katy child psychologist, Abigail Langan, MD. "If you feel uncomfortable discussing a topic and avoid it or dismiss it, your child will feel embarrassed to ask you for information. Therefore, they will look elsewhere – like friends or the Internet." David Dotson, a licensed professional counselor with Houston Center for Christian Counseling, says he encourages parents to use correct names for body parts. "For years we referred to our boys’ private parts as their‘business.’ But once when they were told to, ‘Keep their nose out of other people's business,’ they were grossed out and completely confused," he laughs. "We used correct anatomical terms after that." Dotson says it's important to establish comfort when talking about our bodies from an early age but in an appropriate way. "When children are younger, ages 3 to 4, bath time affords a simple opportunity to talk about hygiene concerning body parts. As they get older, ages 4 to 7, the topic of modesty is a natural subject."

The Sex Talk One of the most feared topics of all is definitely the dreaded s-e-x talk. Starting from a young age, children will give you many opportunities to discuss this topic. Something as simple as a preschooler asking, "Where do babies come from?" or a first grader wanting to know "how does a baby get out of mommy's tummy," can lead to a discussion. Although it can be very uncomfortable for parents, it's important to answer questions honestly and in an age appropriate way. "If, as parents, we are able to foster a sense of security in our children, a feeling that they can ask us anything without feeling embarrassed or ashamed, many difficult topics can be covered," says Langan. Later, as a child begins junior high and high school, discussions will go deeper and address topics of importance such as abstinence, birth control, relationships, sexually transmitted diseases, and other vitally important topics. Many parents avoid discussing these for fear they will encourage teens to become sexually active, but statistics show the opposite may be true. In fact, providing accurate information before young people begin to have sex has been shown to help teens abstain from sex. There are many helpful books on this topic to assist parents in these difficult conversations, but parents should always read the book first before giving it to their child to read. Karen Jaggers, a counselor at Stokan Jaggers & Associates in Katy, suggests giving teens a book to read in private, but telling them you would like to discuss it together afterward. "If children are too embarrassed to ask questions, you can ask them to write down their questions and answer them later."

Death and Loss Death can be as difficult to explain as it is to understand. Whether you have to discuss with your child why their grandmother is in the hospital or the loss of the long-time family pet, it is important to be honest and encourage questions. Let them know you do not have all the answers, but create an environment of comfort and openness. Send the message that there is no right or wrong way to feel. "I believe grieving is an intentional process," says Dotson. "We hear the saying, ‘time heals all wounds,’ but not addressing a painful situation with your child can actually create a wound. We need to walk along side our kids through grief by showing affection, asking them how they are doing, praying with them, or even helping them take action." Dotson points out that culture often discourages kids from attending funerals. "A funeral is a powerful ceremony that can be a tool in the grief process. It helps us see we are not alone in our grief and gives us an opportunity for a solemn and respectful farewell," he adds. When dealing with the loss of a pet, if you have to use euthanasia, be cautious about saying the animal went "to sleep" or "got put to sleep." Young children sometimes interpret events literally, so this can conjure up scary misconceptions about sleep, surgery, and anesthesia. If the pet's death is more sudden, calmly explain what happened, be brief, and let their questions guide how much information you provide.

Drugs and Alcohol Discussing drugs and alcohol with your child may not seem like the highest priority when they are young, but how your child approaches alcohol and drugs can have life-long effects and serious consequences. Studies have shown that children ages 12 and 13 are most commonly exposed to this type of peer pressure, however some evidence now shows that they are being approached much younger. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 19% of high school students admitted to drinking more than a few sips of alcohol before the age of 13. When asked if they’d had at least one drink of alcohol in their lifetime, that number jumps to 66%. Hands-on parenting is often seen as the most effective approach. Frequently discuss your family's values and then make sure you are serving as their role model. Children mimic their parents’ behavior at an early age, and look to them in order to determine what responsible behavior is. "If your son or daughter is feeling peer pressure about drugs or alcohol, tell them that you are going to start randomly drug and alcohol testing them," suggests Jaggers. "It's a great deterrent and for the kids who truly aren't interested but are being pressured. It usually only takes one ‘I can't. My parents drug test me,’ to have them never asked again.

Divorce and Separation As soon as you are certain about your plans, start discussions with your children about your decision to live apart. Keeping the news hidden will only build unnecessary tension. If possible, have both parents present for this conversation. It's important to try to leave feelings of anger, guilt, or blame out of it and not share your adult issues with the children. Practice how you’re going to tell your kids so you don't become upset or angry during the talk. "A primary goal should be to establish yourself as someone who is safe to talk to about anything," advises Dotson. Don't feel like you have to pour out every detail about difficult subjects all at once, but create an on-going atmosphere of safe conversation." Although the discussion should be tailored to your children's age, maturity, and temperament, be sure to convey that what happened between mom and dad, is not their fault, and that both parents still love them. Most kids will feel they are to blame even after parents have said that they are not, so it's vital for parents to keep providing reassurance.

Be Ready for Teachable Moments It's important for parents to prepare for these conversations and fortunately, there are many resources available. "Seeking reputable sources and arming yourself with knowledge should help to remove some of the embarrassment or discomfort some parents feel when discussing certain topics with their kids," says Langan. Kids need straightforward facts and most importantly need to feel comfortable coming to you with embarrassing questions. "The best times to touch on these subjects are when life presents them to you," advises Dotson. "Parents should capitalize on teachable moments." KM

KIRSTEN CORNELL is a lead associate editor for Katy Magazine. She wants to thank these Katy experts for taking time to help parents better navigate tough talks with their kids.

A Katy parent's guide to the basics of selecting the right preschool for your family

Written by Freda Ihediwa and Katy Magazine's Editors

Selecting a preschool is not an easy task, especially with the overwhelming amount of quality preschools to choose from in the Katy area. Each one has its own unique qualities, and parents diligently seek a preschool that matches their family's educational beliefs and values. Communication and research are key components when selecting a preschool that will accommodate your needs. Here are the basic ABC's and 123's of selecting the best fit for you and your child.

A – Ask Don't be afraid to ask questions. Make a list before you visit each school of things you would like to know about. For Katy mom Ashley Lancaster whose son has a life-threatening illness, she had two main questions entering into her evaluation process. "‘What is your sick child policy?’ and ‘What is your hand-washing policy, and is it enforced?’" Evaluate what is most important and valuable to your family, whether it's health-related, education-oriented, or a matter of proximity.

"Open communication with parents, management, and staff helps to foster a healthy and beneficial learning environment," says Kamilla Saidova, owner of The Learning Experience. Also, ask for referrals from other parents. They have already done the research or may have children currently enrolled in programs. Find out what they’ve appreciated most about their school's curriculum, teachers, and overall environment.

Do your research. Preschool accreditation can be easily verified through the National Association for the Education of Young Children, and most schools also allow you to view sample curriculum. Do you want a more hands-on approach to learning, or would you prefer a structured academic schedule? "Our motto sums it up: Learning for fun. Learning for life. I would like all parents to know that at The Goddard School, learning is fun," says Asli Remlinger, owner of The Goddard School in Katy.

B-Balance Look for programs that offer a good mix of learning, playing, activities, and extracurricular opportunities. Schools that are too focused on just learning or just playing are usually not the best fit for children. "Primrose classrooms are furnished with developmentally appropriate furniture, fixtures, and equipment," says marketing director of Primrose School of Cinco Ranch Starla Fitch. "Our units of learning and our character development program, alongside a culturally diverse staff and student population, helps create a positive, productive, and cultural learning environment."

Once you have narrowed down your choices and come up with two or three places you are interested in, schedule a time to visit each preschool. You can learn a lot about a setting by the way staff approach introductory visits with you and your child. During your visit ask yourself questions such as, "Do I feel welcome here? Does my child seem interested in what they have to offer? Do the children in the setting seem happy? How do the adults and children interact? Is the setting clean and safe?"

"Spanish Learning Castle is a school setting where their child is safe, and he or she, feels at home. Parents are confident knowing that their child is being attended to every minute of the day while learning and having fun. Recently, a parent told us that this is the reason she enrolled her child at our school," says Ramon Marin of Spanish Learning Castle.

C-Connection Find a preschool you feel is in line with your child's needs and fits your family's philosophies. Remember to ask how the preschool stays in close communication with parents and updates them on their child's progress. "An emphasis is placed on parent communication to foster the connection between school and home, creating continuity in the child's educational experience," says Fitch.

Spend at least one hour in the classroom of your top three choices. This will not only allow you to see teachers and students interact, but determine if their education philosophy supports your family's values. "We have a loving, family atmosphere that exists between the staff, kids, and extended families," says Steve Sandweiss, owner of Tiger Land Child Care Center.

Connect with your child's teachers. They will be the ones interacting with your child every day and their new primary source for knowledge. Find out if the teachers are available for quick side chats at drop-off and pick-up. Do they offer their email addresses to parents? And if so, how quickly will they get back to you? "Besides Goddard's play-based curriculum, the school realizes the importance of the home and school connection between parents and teachers," says Remlinger. "The teachers differentiate instruction for each child. They also modify or enrich goals as needed for the success of children."

Many schools also send home newsletters to update parents on classroom activities. Find out if these will tell you menu plans for the week, what projects are being completed, and other school-wide news.

Choosing the best preschool for your child does not have to be an overwhelming task. Successful parents go into the process aware, informed, and ready to ask questions. Being prepared will make the process efficient, effective, and meaningful for you and your child. KM

FREDA IHEDIWA is freelance writer, and teacher at Hancock Elementary. She is proud to call Katy home.

* See the full feature in Katy Magazine December/January 2014 for tips on how to prepare your child for preschool and a list of common preschool philosophies in the Katy area.

Katy, TX – The word is out! At 12 midnight, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo released the long-anticipated 2015 concert lineup. Many are saying this is the best performance schedule in rodeo history. With chart-topping artists from various genres, this year's rodeo is sure to be a hit for everyone.

Performing artists include Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Eric Church, Hunter Hayes, John Legend, Fall Out Boy, Tim McGraw, Ariana Grande, Billy Currington, Blake Shelton, Pitbull, Brad Paisley, and Zac Brown Band.

For a full list of entertainers, and for ticket information, visit www.rodeohouston.com/concerts.

Happy Rodeo Season, Katy!

More than just a place to stay, Katy's Ballard House provides patients, caregivers, and families in need with Texas-sized hospitality in a home away from home

Written by Susanna Donald | Select photography by Kristofor Rodriguez

Katy, TX News – It's no secret that Katy is surrounded by premier medical facilities. People travel from all over the country – and the world – in order to get treatment here. But what happens when an out-of-town patient needs long-term care? Where do they sleep when they don't qualify for a hospital bed? Being critically ill or having a loved one in the hospital is hard enough. Now imagine compounding the problem by sleeping in waiting rooms or spending money that should be going toward medical bills on a long-stay in a hotel.

Passion for a Mission In 2011, Erin Ballard heard about this problem while she was undergoing treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Katy. Her oncologist, Dr. Suni Patel, told her about Cinco Charities, a non-profit dedicated to providing temporary housing for patients and their caregivers coming to Katy area medical facilities for treatment of life-threatening illnesses. Since 2006, Cinco Charities had housed these families in nearby hotels, with the ultimate goal of building a free-of-charge hospitality house that would be open to patients and their families.

Ballard, inspired by the mission of Cinco Charities, donated one of her rental houses in Katy for the non-profit to use, and her passion for the mission was contagious. Erin's husband, Monty, started the Ballard Foundation in order to help Cinco Charities move toward their goal of the freestanding hospitality house in Katy. Two years later, the Ballard House opened its doors to five families in need of a place to stay. "The generosity of Monty and Erin Ballard has made it possible for so many families to have free lodging," says Ginger Hopper, Ballard House's executive director. "The size we envisioned for our ‘house’ was half the size they helped us build."

Comforts of Home With 24 guest suites, free onsite laundry facilities, a common kitchen and dining area, stocked pantry, library, chapel, beautiful backyard, and more, this 20,000 square-foot hospitality house truly offers guests the comforts of home. Patients can qualify to stay at Ballard House regardless of age or financial situation. To date, Ballard House has never charged guests anything because of the kindness of sponsors, donors, volunteers, and the Katy community.

Beyond the amenities, though, are the unique relationships that are formed between the families who are staying at Ballard House. "Families find themselves meeting total strangers who become like family in a very short time," says Hopper. "We see folks walking through the valley of the shadow of death, but there is so much hope, joy, and love. The Ballard House is a happy place."

Making a Difference Before guests come to stay at the Ballard House, they often find themselves drained financially and physically from traveling back and forth for treatment. Being able to stay somewhere free of charge allows patients to rest, recover, and use their funds for paying medical bills and taking care of things at home.

When Pamela Hockett found out she had breast cancer, she immediately began researching treatment options. "It was clear that MD Anderson, seven hours away, was the only medical facility that offered the treatment I needed," she says. "The realization that I needed weekly treatment so far from home added an additional burden. Suddenly, I was faced with the possibility of not getting the treatment I needed due to the financial strain of needing housing and daily living expenses." Hockett had already lost her job and was planning to be married at the beginning of June – incidentally, only a few days before she would start treatment.

Hockett's social worker at MD Anderson told her about the Ballard House, and soon she and her husband-to-be Michael were offered the room where they would stay as husband and wife and where she could rest and recover from the lifesaving treatment she would receive. "The Ballard House gave us so much more than a room," Hockett says. "It was hope, and hope makes all the difference." KM

Tommie Cross-Holmes, a Mayde Creek graduate, is accomplishing his dream of modeling in New York City

Written by Cherri Northcutt | Photography courtesy of Tommie Cross-Holmes

Growing up as a student at Mayde Creek Elementary, Tommie Cross-Holmes never imagined that he would one day live in New York and have a successful modeling career. "As a kid, I was always playing outside with friends," Tommie remembers. "My mom even got walkie-talkies so she could let me know when to come in for dinner. The only problem was, I had to stay within range," he says.

"Tommie loved to read and play football," his mother, Denita Holmes shares. In fact, his love of sports led him to Katy Youth Football where he met some of his lifelong friends. His dad played golf, so Tommie started playing in seventh grade. Tommie adds, "I also played football and ran track through junior high and high school."

Dreams of Broadway At Mayde Creek High School, Tommie was also active in choir. "He performed in Kantori and Encore choirs, and played the Beast in Beauty and the Beast his senior year," Denita says. An active, good-natured young man, Tommie had dreams of playing for the NFL and singing on Broadway.

After graduating from Mayde Creek in 2009, Tommie was accepted into the musical theatre program at Sam Houston State University. While there, he also found time to play intramural football, basketball, soccer, and kickball. He was on the rugby team for the university as well as a camp counselor for incoming freshmen in his sophomore and junior years at college. "I like to meet people and be active," Tommie says.

Getting the Callback For years, Tommie's mother and several of his friends encouraged him to give modeling a try. "I said, ‘That's not for me,’" Tommie recalls. "Finally in 2010, I decided to give it a shot."

Page Parkes in Houston was the second agency Tommie went for a meeting. "The only pictures we had were my senior photos from high school," Tommie admits. After meeting with Parkes, the agency signed him that day. "They set me up with my first test shoot," Tommie remembers. "I felt like a superstar in my own way."

"We were drawn to Tommie's sweet nature, cool look, and we loved the hair," says Erik Bechtol, agency director at Page Parkes. "He's always happy and has a love of the business that makes people want to be around him."

At an agency review, Tommie showed off his modeling and acting talents for other agencies and clients. "I was so nervous," he recalls. "At home later I was freaking out that I wouldn't get a callback." He did not need to worry. The next day Tommie learned that he had callbacks for eight modeling opportunities and 10 callbacks for acting. "I was like, ‘Wow, this is crazy," Tommie says. He began modeling under the name Tommie Cross.

The Move to NYC In August 2011, Tommie went to New York to test the waters. In his first few days, he went to casting calls and met potential clients. He then booked his first campaign for Off Broadway Shoes. A few days later he booked a TJ Maxx advertisement. Jobs with Seventeen Magazine and GQ quickly followed. "I thought that if it was going to keep going like that, I’d better find a place to live," Tommie says.

Three weeks into his trip, Tommie found an apartment, and he's been in New York ever since. Tommie's "trial run" has turned into a permanent move.

Last February, Tommie met his goal of getting work with a national modeling agency when he signed with Wilhelmina Models in New York and Los Angeles. His proudest moment as a model so far was a recent commercial for Sony. "I did a Sony campaign with video game characters of me that played on the billboard in Times Square," he says. "That was a great moment."

Calling Katy Home Tommie enjoys occasional visits with his family and to his hometown. "New York is just go-go-go, 24-7," Tommie shares. "I love coming home to Katy to just chill and relax." In Katy, he still loves playing football with old friends and watching his little brother Samuel grow up. Samuel is now a freshman at Mayde Creek High School. "I like to go back to Mayde Creek and talk to Coach Carter," Tommie says. "I miss driving instead of always taking a subway everywhere." Tommie also enjoys reconnecting with his childhood friends in Katy. "I’m still the same person. I don't let success go to my head."

Remember Your Roots Tommie believes in setting goals. In the future he says, "I want to get the acting side of things going. In three years I want to shoot a TV pilot and in five years I want to be on my first feature film." This January, he will be in Los Angeles working with Wilhelmina, LA. Tommie believes that the attitude you display determines how successful you will be in the industry.

"Modeling isn't for everyone," Tommie admits. "You have to get used to rejection." Even so, he encourages people to stay positive. "Don't be scared; get out of your comfort zone. Get out there and try." He encourages others to not be afraid, and to remember their roots. "No matter how successful you get, don't forget who you are, where you came from, and the people who were with you when times were hard." KM

CHERRI NORTHCUTT has lived in Katy with her husband and two daughters for over 14 years.

An inside look at Katy ISD's dedicated board of trustees

Written by Shetye Cypher | Photography courtesy of Katy ISD

As one of the fastest growing communities in the nation, Katy ISD is the perfect combination of long-standing tradition and a cutting edge approach to learning. Through collaboration, commitment, and a desire for greatness, the Katy ISD board of trustees is always striving to provide the best educational experience possible for Katy students.

Bryan Michalsky, President

Both lifelong educators, Bryan Michalsky's parents instilled the importance of a good education early on, which he feels had a huge impact. "I love children, which to me is the first prerequisite to serve on the board," he says. He also truly believes that the board has made strides in engaging the community over the past two years since he has served.

In addition to his passion for education, his professional experience provides him with the knowledge to make sound financial decisions. He loves that Katy ISD provides its students many opportunities to learn and succeed. "From athletics, to fine arts, to FFA, Katy ISD does a remarkable job of educating the whole student and preparing them for a fulfilling life," says Michalsky.

Henry Dibrell, Vice President

Henry Dibrell refers to the involvement of parents and community volunteers as the "secret sauce" behind Katy ISD's success. "We have an opportunity in Katy to change the face of education for all young people," he says. "Katy is a great community. We have a bright future. As we continue to grow, we must work together to ensure that greatness continues and is passed down to the next generation."

Dibrell decided to run for the board out of a passion for seeing young people achieve. He believes the board's mission is to make sure every child in the community has access to unparalleled learning experiences. "Education is the great equalizer in our society. In this great nation, if you have a good education and work hard you can achieve great things. The key to the preservation of our liberties is an educated populous," he says.

Rebecca Fox, Secretary

No matter the strengths, challenges, or interests of students, having talented educators ready to teach and inspire is what Rebecca Fox loves about Katy ISD. "I love children of all ages and watching them learn new things. Giving them opportunities that meet their individual strengths makes me excited," she says.

Fox could not be more proud of the amazing programs that Katy ISD offers students, from fine arts to special needs. "I have attended countless graduations and shaken thousands of hands, and I still get misty-eyed every time I hear the music as they walk the stage and throw their caps into the air. It's my favorite time of year. I am so proud of them, and happy that they are prepared for the future."

Charles Griffin, Treasurer

In Charles Griffin's travels around the world, he has seen the value of a great education. Having lived almost his entire life in Katy, he wants to help restore the trust of the community in the district. "I grew up in Katy and moved back here so my children could have the same great experiences. I wanted to give something back to the district having received so much myself," he says.

Griffin believes that being a leader includes being honest, loyal, steadfast, and of sound character. He feels the current board's vision statement works well. "It was put together by this community and covers all the important needs of our students, community, and the district," he says.

Courtney Doyle, Sergeant-at-Arms

Courtney Doyle feels she is acutely aware of the importance of all kids being given an opportunity to learn. She felt running for the board was a unique opportunity to add another woman's voice to the leadership. "I want to continue to aid in opening the lines of communication between the district and the community. We not only have to communicate our goals to those who have been in Katy forever, we have to engage and find unique opportunities to communicate effectively to families who are new to the area," she says.

Doyle loves walking the halls of the schools and spending time at extracurricular events. The students brighten her day and her outlook on the future. "Children have a way of sharing hope without even knowing they are doing so. They are innocent, quick to love, quick to laugh, and eager to be great," says Doyle.

Ashley Vann, Member

Ashley Vann feels that being a Katy resident means that you are a part of something great. "People move to the Katy area for the Katy ISD schools, and I love being a part of this district – its past, its present, and its future," she says.

A James E. Taylor High School graduate, Vann has served in leadership positions for over a decade in Katy ISD. She is a third generation community servant who felt a calling to do more for the school district. "I campaigned honestly and tirelessly. I communicated clearly, and truly committed to do this job with all of my heart the minute I filed," says Vann.

Vann also loves that even though the district is significantly larger than when she was a student, it still feels like a small town. "As a product of public education, I always believed my children would be, too," says Vann. "Education is more than just the classroom. It is hands on learning outside the four walls of a school building. It is achieved through mentoring, the many co-curricular activities that are available, and the fundamental basis and commitment that exists at home."

Joe M. Adams, Member

Joe Adams believes that the board's job is managing the district along with the superintendent. He says the board wants to continue to improve the district so all students have opportunities to excel. "Education is important for our students because they are our future. One day they might be my doctor, my mechanic, or even the president of the U. S.," says Adams. "We need to make sure every student is prepared for the next step in life, whatever that might be."

Adams is confident in the opportunities Katy ISD can offer. "I cannot tell you how many times people have told me that their children have done well in college because of the education they received in Katy ISD," says Adams. "We need to be proud of our district, our leadership, administration, and teachers. We are all in this together and it is important for us to be successful." KM

Shetye Cypher is a freelance writer who is also the journalism teacher and publications advisor at Tompkins High School.

Katy, TX News (December 16, 2014) – Bo Levi Mitchell, a 2008 graduate of Katy High School, recently led the Calgary Stampeders to a 20-16 win against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and took home the Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award during the 2014 Grey Cup Canadian Championship Football Game.

The 2014 Grey Cup win adds to Mitchell's impressive list of athletic awards including the Katy High School State Championship in 2007; a National Championship at Eastern Washington University in 2010; and the 2011 Walter Payton Award, which is given to the top player in the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision.

Click here for more information on the 2014 Grey Cup.

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Far Pavilions Brings Design to You 281-579-3858 | farpavilions.com Far Pavilions offers exclusive design consultations. They arrange a visit to your home, take measurements, and help rearrange your existing furniture, accessories, and artwork to create a cohesive and harmonious look. Then, they schedule your visit back to their showroom in order to help you select pieces that are the perfect fit for your home. Don't forget, they not only offer interior design services, but they offer space planning in your home with your existing pieces.

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Katy's Unique Chocolate Boutique 832-321-3580 | schakolad.com Schakolad Chocolate Factory is a truly custom retail chocolate boutique. Their chocolates are made fresh on the premises, using a tried-and-true, three-generation, European-style family recipe. They specialize in making truffles, clusters, and ganaches, as well as a big selection of molded items for any occasion. They host birthday parties and chocolate-making factory tours for kids and adults.

Katy, TX News (December 6, 2014) – The Katy ISD Communications department has issued a letter regarding the tragic deaths of Terra Kubala and Trent Weber:

"Dear Parents and Guardians,

The faculty and staff of Seven Lakes and Cinco Ranch High School are deeply saddened to learn of the deaths of two students who tragically lost their lives in a vehicle accident over the weekend. We ask that you please join us as we extend our deepest and heartfelt sympathy to the families as they mourn their loss.

Grief counselors will be on campus on Monday to help our school community deal with this loss. We will be doing everything we can to help your child and our staff through this heartbreaking experience.

Over the next few days, you may wish to encourage your child to express his or her feelings and listen attentively. It will be helpful to recognize the various steps that we all go through in the grieving process: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance.

If you have any concerns regarding your child's reaction to this loss, please contact your child's teacher, school counselor or any member of the administrative staff. Thank you for your concern and support during this difficult time."

Katy ISD

*Katy Magazine would like to express their deepest sympathies for the families of these students, and send wishes for comfort and healing in this time of incredible loss.

There are times when you can't believe you just did that. Katy parents reveal some of their most embarrassing parenting secrets.

Missing Something "When my twins were infants, I was in a constant state of exhaustion. One day they had their 2-month-old check-up. As usual, I got them ready in the carriers and put them by the garage door so I could grab my purse and get everything loaded in the car. Without even thinking, I jumped in the car and headed out. When I got to the end of the street, I realized I had forgotten something very important – the babies! I drove home as fast as I could and swung open the door. My little ones were fast asleep in the carriers with no idea that mommy had forgotten them." – M.C.

Early Preparation "My mom used to have us get dressed in our school clothes the night before, after bath time, so she wouldn't have to fight with us in the morning about what to wear."- N.M.

Misplaced Milk "One time, I was looking for Charlotte's bottle of breast milk I had just pumped. I knew I had pumped, but it wasn't in the fridge. Hours later, I found it in the kitchen cabinet with the glasses – because that's where breast milk belongs. I was clearly sleep-deprived. But I laughed for days." -K.M.

Neighborly Visit "I never set an alarm on the weekends. There's no need to. My alarm comes in the form of a 5-year-old and 3-year-old twins. One Saturday, I woke up to see my 5-year-old not only awake but dressed in a hot pink skirt that was at least one size too little and a turquoise tank top. When asked her why she had gotten dressed, she nonchalantly said, ‘We walked over to the neighbors.’ I’m freaking out. I can't believe my ears. About that time, our neighbor was knocking on the door. Her hubby told her they went to her house, and she was checking on them. Not my proudest parenting moment. I bought a lock that is higher on the door. My 5-year-old's response to that was, ‘I’ll have to get a chair to reach it now.’" – S.C.

Gummy Bear Secrets "Being a working parent is hard with medication and fever policies. So I have to confess, on occasion when my daughter has woken up with a slightly elevated temp, and I know what's causing it (usually ear infection – not contagious), I slip a couple of chewable Ibuprofen in her gummy bears at lunch to keep her from being sent home. She takes them at home, I give her specific instructions not to share, and it saves me from the call and more importantly the 24-hour stay-home policy." – D.R.

Emergency Measures "When my oldest, 4, declares she needs to potty after I have already buckled all the car seats and it is an ‘emergency,’ I will grab a diaper from the baby's bag and put it on her so I don't have to unload and drag everyone to the public bathroom." – N.M.

Written by Katie Jozwiak

Katy, TX – BRRR!!! This weekend was a chilly one. A whopping 40 degrees of pure Heavenly air with gusty winds perfect for a photo shoot. Did Marty McFly take us to the Arctic or is Katy, Texas experiencing WINTER?! Either way, I was desperate for some warmth. As you will all soon (oh so soon) come to realize, I only have two weaknesses: my sweet husband and delicious chocolate. Comfort never tasted so good.

Chocolate is great for the impatient – how else could you get instant reprieve from feeling down? Wait two hours for lasagna, I don't think so. My experiences have taught me that most things in life can be fixed – or at least made significantly better – with chocolate. Its versatility is quite remarkable, I must say. Bite it, melt it, mix it, bake it, freeze it, drink it, you name it, it can do it. It's like the world's greatest friend. Plus, chocolate comes from cocoa beans, the fruit of the cacao, so it's basically the healthiest food you can eat.

Seeing that the average women's suggested daily fruit intake is about two cups, I decided to get one of mine from Schakolad Chocolate Factory. It is conveniently located on Fry Rd. so I didn't have to venture far into the tundra to claim my prize. When I arrived I was greeted directly by the store's owner who is super nice. She let me sample some enchanting hot chocolate and it was then I knew… I had not yet begun living until that precise moment. All other hot chocolate had failed me. What I had once considered a meaningful relationship I then learned that it was all just façade keeping me from my true destiny. After tasting true love, how could I ever go back? How could I revert back to a corporate, water-based, over-priced mixture they called hot chocolate? Ludicrous. I’ve tasted and seen, and there's no going back. This chocolate boutique had stolen my heart in the form of a $2.50 cup of melted artisan chocolate that was made fresh the minute I came shivering in the door. After consuming my cup of happiness, I was told that they actually serve their hot chocolate year round… could my day get any better? I will definitely be going back and I hope to see you there!

Written by Katie Jozwiak

Katy, TX – The arrival of winter brings about various emotions- some are filled with holiday joy, some are filled with frustration at the thought of wearing an extra layer of clothes, while most are just excited about having two months with an excuse to eat calorie rich food and beverages.

I am a human who qualifies in the third category. What can I say? I love food. I appreciate the hard work and artistic creativity that gets put into fine dining. Out of a world of possibilities, sweet treats have a special place in my heart, as does my hometown. Katy, Texas is filled with restaurants, cafes, bistros, all sorts of quaint little spaces that serve delicious treats… and this is their story.

(Stay tuned for a winter filled with accounts of mouth-watering sweets.)

Katy Fire Department hires a four-legged firefighter

Written by Kirsten Cornell|Photography by Christopher Rodriguez

Katy, TX News – When Lt. Shane Hughes of the Katy Fire Department (KFD) first thought about adding a four-legged team member to their department, a Dalmatian was a natural choice. "Like any family thinking of getting a dog, we had to carefully consider everything that goes along with pet ownership: costs, vet care, who would walk her, etc.," says Laurie Conrad, firefighter and president of the Katy Fire and EMS Association. "Everyone in the department had to agree before we would proceed."

Rescuing Katy After considering their options, KFD decided they preferred giving a rescue dog a good home. Beth White of Dalmatian Rescue of Colorado put them in touch with Jeanne, a woman who was fostering a Dalmatian in League City. Lt. Hughes met with Jeanne and the foster dog to evaluate her demeanor and evaluate whether or not she would make a good fit.

"A few days later, Jeanne brought her to the station for a site visit," Conrad recalls. "We fell in love with her immediately, and I believe the feeling was mutual." They appropriately named their new team member, Katy. She was reportedly rescued from an animal hoarder and had only been in foster care a few days before coming to live at KFD. "She was very thin, but otherwise in good health," says Conrad. "We knew when we rescued a dog that we would have to give her plenty of time and space to settle in."

Other than being a little protective of her toys at first, Katy adjusted very quickly. "It almost seemed like she had never had her own toys and wanted to protect them. When we gave them to her, she ran and hid them in her kennel," says Conrad. With the safety and security of constant love and attention, Katy now feels right at home – and her toys can be found all over the station.

Training as a Firedog Katy is an official City of Katy employee, has a photo ID just like the rest of her team members, and her training number is D01. Although she has not been to a working fire yet, she Katy Fire Department works 24 hours on three shifts with Katy being assigned two handlers per shift to ensure consistencyhas been on the fire truck during her training exercises and has done very well. "She will eventually be responding to all calls. She loves to be on-the-go and anywhere we are," adds Conrad.

Katy lives at the fire station, and although she has her own space, has been known to sneak into a few dorm rooms. During shift changes, she makes the rounds, greeting each member of the on-coming shift and saying goodbye to the off-going shift. "She seems to have an awareness that we come and go and which people belong together," Conrad laughs.

Mac Macintosh, a trainer with 48 years of experience who has also worked with Katy Police Department canines, has donated his time and service to work with Katy and her handlers. He notes that Katy is very intelligent, a quick learner, and eager to please.

Spotting Katy Katy's primary role will be in public relations. She will be a key component at events and station tours, and will ultimately demonstrate fire safety techniques such as, "stop, drop, and roll." "We hope that she will make a great impression on kids," Conrad adds. Katy will be making several public appearances in the community, especially at schools, and KFD is excited to be able to utilize her in this capacity. "She is energetic but very even-tempered, perfectly suited for interacting with the public," says Conrad.

If you take a tour of the station, you’re sure to spot Katy greeting guests or chasing her favorite toy, a stuffed green avocado, and generally loving her new home. "KFD is truly like a family and Katy completes our family," says Conrad. "She is our companion, but she also has a job to do. We love our jobs, and we think Katy does, too." KM

Kirsten Cornell is the lead associate editor at Katy Magazine. She is the daughter of a firefighter, but they regrettably did not have a Dalmatian.

Katy ISD parents Vince and Pam Zinnante speak out on the Katy 2014 Bond Election

Written by Pam Zinnante

Katy, TX News – We have lived in Katy for 35 years, and have seen multiple bond issues approved to relieve overcrowding in schools. My husband and I were pleased to vote in favor of the bond that provided relief to the south side of Katy when there was an outcry that Cinco Ranch High School had hit over 3,400 students and would grow to almost 3,800 students by the time Seven Lakes High School was due to open. Within a few years, fast growth indicated the need for yet another high school serving Katy ISD south of I-10, and a community that should not take sides rightly voted in favor of another school and additional improvements and spaces to benefit all students district-wide.

Both Morton Ranch and Katy High School are hoping for relief from the expected growth in the Grand Pkwy. corridor. Those who think new buildings are unnecessary may be unaware that Morton Ranch High School is severely overcrowded. Lunch hours have to be expanded in order to be able to feed all of the students, and extra time between classes is needed to make it to outdoor temporary villages through halls too packed to navigate. How does that impact the education of students? Every minute of educational time lost matters!

So, my husband and I ask our friends and neighbors in Katy ISD to not abandon the needs of those students who would benefit from the changes suggested in the bond. This is not about a vote for a new stadium, but about the recognition that all students in Katy ISD, regardless of feeder pattern, have a need to be educated in a safe environment where the focus can be on curriculum. Thank you for voting in favor of the 2014 Bond Package, Build a Better Tomorrow Together, and supporting the education of our kids. KM

Vince and Pam Zinnante have lived in Katy for 35 years and have watched their three daughters graduate from Morton Ranch and Katy High School.

Katy Magazine would like to thank the Zinnante's for offering their opinion on such an important issue. For information on the Bond package, visit katyisd.org.

Cinco Ranch High School Band Competes at the Lone Star Preview

By Lesley Ann Jones

Katy, TX News – The Cinco Ranch High School Cougar Band recently represented Katy ISD at the 2014 Lone Star Preview Marching Band Championship. Held at Woodforest Bank Stadium in The Woodlands, students competed against 14 other bands from across the state for top honors.

Their performance, In the Mix, combined classical components of music and mixed them with dance club rhythms and beats for a show that won over students and parents alike. Written by Daniel Montoya Jr, the piece included works by Beethoven, Bizet, Handel, and Mozart.

After completing the Bands of America regional contest in Austin, Texas earlier this season, they placed fifth in the preliminary round at the Lone Star Preview contest, where they advanced to the finals and achieved a Cougar Band record of fourth place. This accomplishment is testament to the hard work and dedication of the directors, band, and Encore dance team members.

The next stop for the Cougar Band will be the UIL Area E 6A Marching Contest, held on Saturday, October 25, at the Berry Center. Bands from 40 6A high schools from Houston, Katy, Missouri City, and Cypress will compete.

The band would like to extend a huge "Thank You!" to their boosters, especially the team of parents who help them get to and from events and practices, and help out during every production. Without their support, the band wouldn't be as successful and as happy as they are.

Lesley Ann Jones is the corporate sponsorship chair for the Cinco Ranch Cougar Band Boosters.

Katy Magazine would like to thank Lesley for sharing the Cougar Band's success! Do you have school news you’d like to share? Email [email protected]!

Spotlighting the students who transform Katy's Friday nights

Written by Ashley Lancaster and Kirsten Cornell | Select Photography by Craig Moseley

Katy, TX News – The stands fill with fans of all ages donning their school colors and faces painted with their favorite players’ numbers and armed with pom-poms, foam fingers, and signs. Athletes who have trained for years grind their cleats on the soft AstroTurf as they stare down the 120 yards to the goal line. Dozens of anxious students polish their instruments and fluff their plumes as they go over the spirit numbers one more time. It can only mean one thing: It's Friday night, and the game is about to begin.

KATY’S FOOTBALL TEAMS A Winning Mindset While every football program has its own strategies, the coaches and players at each school will tell you that preparing to take on an opponent takes more than just physical strength. "The coaches will begin preparing right after the previous game by watching video of what our next opponent does and how they do it," says Don Clayton, athletic director and head coach at Cinco Ranch High School. "The players will do the mental work in meetings and video sessions, as well as on their own with study of the scouting report and with opponent video that is available to them."

Physical preparation is accomplished during weekly practices, which averages about eight hours per week. While as many as 450 students try out for football each season, only about 85 will end up playing varsity under the stadium lights on a Friday night, something that each player looks forward to. According to Taylor Jiral, team captain and student at Cinco Ranch High School, Fridays are synonymous with football. "All I can think about is the game. After school we go straight to the meeting room and prepare as a team for our games. We get in the zone and focused for the task ahead of us."

Taylor Mustang Eddie Schwarz is looking forward to competing with this teammates and winning this season. "We will be making new traditions this year with Coach Herrmann and the coaching staff. I can't wait to go all out for them and for all of our supporters."

AWARD-WINNING BANDS Sounds of School Pride In the moment before kick-off, it wouldn't be a football game if there were no drum roll or music to lift the spirits of the fans in the stands and players on the field. That is why the high school band plays such a huge role in encouraging the athletes and keeping the crowd on their feet.

"The band is one of the integral components of the football game that helps cultivate the environment and create excitement in the stands," says Michael Ary, newly appointed band director at Taylor High School. Without the dedication and hard work of the band programs, like the eight-hour practices during the weeks before school and regular practices throughout the week, Friday nights at Rhodes Stadium wouldn't be nearly as exciting.

"Our Katy fans are really spirited," adds Katy Tiger Nathaniel Hebert. "They make up chants and scream them during the game. They know all of the spirit songs."

SPIRIT LEADERS Rallying the Community The cheerleaders, mascots, and drill team members boost school spirit with more than their presence at a game. They help rally the community to support their team. "They are responsible for so much more than just sideline cheering," says Seven Lakes cheer coach Amy Weaston. "We go to Red Ribbon Week, pep rallies, store grand openings, public relations appearances, birthday parties, and homecoming decorating – anything that reminds the public of who we are and what school we represent."

This involvment in the community is what keeps people filling the stands to root for their school on a Friday night. The drill team members are in charge of decorating players’ lockers to boost morale during the week and practice their half-time routine for hours each day, right up until the moments before they perform.

Darby Boyd, dance instructor and drill team director at Taylor High School, shares what it's like to watch her team perform on game night. "I love seeing a dance evlove from initial conception, then to teaching it, casting it, and finally perfecting it. It all comes to fruition in the moments the Pacesetters are on the field," she says. "I am always nervously excited and incredibly proud."

Student participation is the lifeblood of the crowd, and you can feel their excitement build throughout the game. "We will have a new student section this year nicknamed ‘the Jungle’ that we are really excited about," explains Ryver Kirk, a cheer captain on the Katy High School varsity squad.

"The THS crowd always loves the chants where we have them repeat after us, getting louder and louder," says Taylor High School varsity cheerleader Nicole Phillips. "They also seem to love the cheers that include our stunts, which take a lot of practice. And I can't go without saying they love tumbling. All of our varsity cheerleaders are great tumblers."

IN THE STANDS All for the Fans Each group plays an important role in encouraging school spirit, but without the fans there would be no one to rally. Lorraine Eberly, cheer coach at Morton Ranch High School, remembers one fan in particular who touched her heart. "There is a little girl named Brittany that comes to every Morton Ranch game. She wears a cheer uniform and sits in the top section, brings posters and noise makers, and leads the 50 yard line crowd during the whole game. She comes down at every game to say, ‘Hi.’ How much sweeter can it get than that?" It's safe to say that even Katy's littlest fans love their football.

"I love being on the field and cheering for my team and the people who come out to support us," adds Mayde Creek spirit officer Amanda Sprague. "I couldn't ask for a better squad. They are my family."

Without the combined efforts of each group and the dedicated fans, Friday night football wouldn't be able to live up to the hype. Katy High School head football coach and athletic coordinator Gary Joseph sums it up when he says, "It takes the coaches, players, school, athletic administration, teachers, student body, band, drill team, cheerleaders, parents, fans, and loyal supporters to have a successful program." KM

ASHLEY LANCASTER is the Editorial Assistant at Katy Magazine and loves to watch her youngest brother and cousin play football for Katy High School.

Kirsten Cornell is the lead associate editor of Katy Magazine and she's excited about wearing her spirit shirts to Friday football games this season.

Katyite Joshua Martinez shares the story of his battle with colorectal cancer

Written by Clare Jensen | Photography by Anetrius Wallace

Katy, TX News – People often take their lives and daily activities for granted, discrediting illness as too far removed to affect them. But then one day, they are taken by surprise, and the certainty of having a next breath becomes not quite so certain. This was the case for Katyite Joshua Martinez.

From Colonoscopy to Cancer Joshua Martinez, an elementary school assistant principal with a wife and four kids, had no symptoms of cancer in June 2012. His son Ian, a medical student, encouraged both his parents to have colonoscopy screenings since they were in their mid-fifties. Within a few weeks, Martinez was diagnosed with stage 3 colorectal cancer.

The entire family was both shocked and devastated. Roxanne, the Martinez's oldest daughter, describes her reaction to the news. "My worst nightmare: cancer hitting my family. My heart stopped. I cried. Later, I composed myself and realized we have to have a fighter's attitude toward it."

Tough Treatments Having incorporated faith into their daily lives prior to the cancer diagnosis helped Martinez and his family adjust to their new perspective. "The one constant throughout it was prayer. Whether individually or corporately as a family, we prayed often," Martinez says.

Following the diagnosis, treatment started almost immediately with chemotherapy, two surgeries, and hospitalizations. The side effects of chemotherapy were far beyond mere inconvenience or embarrassment. Besides nausea and exhaustion, Martinez suffered from numbness and tingling in his hands, depression, and complications with his ileostomy, which diverted his intestines to a removal bag. According to Martinez's oncologist, Dr. Sunil Patel with MD Anderson in Katy, "The treatment wasn't easy for him. He pushed through it because of the support system that was in place. If his experience would be a lesson for anyone, it would be to rely on that base of support that you have in times of need."

Superhero Supporters Martinez credits his wife Berta as his biggest supporter throughout the process. From his dietary cravings to his mood shifts, she tended as much as possible to both his physical and emotional needs. Dr. Patel admired the couple's strong relationship. "She was very concerned and asked a lot of questions to help him get through it when the initial diagnosis was hard for him. [She] was very positive, and he relied on [her] in a significant way."

His children also played instrumental roles in distracting their father from his cancer. His daughter Rhiannon knew how much her dad dreaded the chemotherapy treatments. In order to show her support, she decided to present him with a superhero shirt and themed gift every time he had a treatment. For example, an Ironman shirt was accompanied by a "gadget," a stand for Martinez's iPad. "My dad grew up during a time of comic books and superheroes, something we’ve been able to share every time the latest superhero blockbuster came out. I wanted him to know how heroic a thing it was that he was doing, battling cancer."

A Musical Miracle When he successfully completed treatment at MD Anderson in Katy, Martinez says, "We were elated and thankful to God for bringing us through this." After a celebration dinner, his family surprised him with a mandolin, an instrument he had been interested in learning prior to his diagnosis. During his illness, his daughter Bianca would write songs of encouragement for him, and music often helped him out of depression. Now the mandolin, in addition to his guitar, represents both the victory over cancer and the love that surrounds him.

Currently, he is working to include the mandolin in a new song he is writing. "It's dedicated to my wife as she inspired it by her Christ-like actions. Basically, it is about the spiritual struggle I went through and how she was able to help me out of the pit of despair." The faith, music, and love that inspired the Martinez family throughout the chemotherapy and surgeries continue long after the treatments have vanished. Once Martinez reaches five years from his diagnosis, he will be considered a survivor. He says the cancer experience has changed him for the better. "There's a reason for all we go through in life, and we’re not guaranteed our next breath, so we do the best we can with the opportunities given." KM

Clare Jensen is a senior at Rice University majoring in English and history. She calls Katy her home, and enjoys keeping in touch with the community.

A look at the dangers of too much screen time and how Katy families can find the right balance for connecting and socializing with family

Written by Katy Magazine's Editors

Katy, TX News – Go to any restaurant and you’ll see it: an entire family, silent, all looking down at their devices instead of talking with each other. Some "hip" new restaurants are even offering media-inspired entertainment at the table to keep everyone occupied throughout the meal. As we spend more and more time checking Facebook, Instagram, and playing Candy Crush Saga, we are spending less and less time connecting as a family.

With the ease of access to the Internet and the constant feeling of being in-touch with friends through social media, many Katyites, from kids to adults, admit to being tempted to be "on" digitally all hours of the day. Teens aren't the only ones glued to their smart phones. Parents are also facing attention-span issues between their tablets with games, movies, work emails, app notifications; and the cries of young children that are pacified by handing over the device. But experts say this attempt to socially multitask is actually leaving negative imprints in families as they struggle to find ways to connect.

Escaping Real Life "I think that families are learning to escape from the stress of life behind their iPhones and tablets. We are learning that instead of looking at a sunset, it is more enjoyable to scroll through our Facebook feed," observes certified Katy counselor Susan Sowell, MA, LPC-S. "We have exchanged the blessing of connecting with our loved ones with disconnecting in front of a screen. It is an easy trap to get into and robs the family of having true community."

Lack of Engagement The first step is to recognize the problem and admit if you or others in the family are getting a little obsessed with your digital devices to the detriment of real-life human interaction. "I see the problem as being not just kids who are spending too much screen time," says George Jolliff of Faith West Academy. "Parents are often guilty of spending too much time checking smartphones and email when not on the clock."

Dinner with the family used to be a time for bonding, connecting, and discussing everyone's highs and lows, but today everyone seems to be on their own screen. "When you go out as a family leave the devices at home and be present with those who are around you," advises Darlene Rankin, director of instruction innovations for Katy ISD.

We’ve all been in a conversation with a friend, when they look down and check their phone. You suddenly sense how unimportant your conversation must be. Imagine how a child feels when mom is listening with one ear, but looking down at the cell phone instead of looking in his or her eyes. Who knows what the long-term detrimental impact on today's children will be?

"What we are creating is a generation that is far more comfortable talking via text than talking in person. What is being lost is the art of personal relationships," adds Jaggers.

Setting Digital Boundaries "We implemented a ‘no-electronics rule’ during family meals so we can focus solely on each other," says Tony Rivera, a Katy father of two. The Riveras recently returned from a long road trip where they actually turned off the DVD player and played license plate bingo together. Other Katy parents never allow kids to have phones or tablets at mealtimes, homework time, or bedtime. Collecting kids’ and teens’ cell phones at the end of the day is a standard in many Katy homes.

Forming New Habits

"If we want our children to form new habits, then we need to take the lead," adds Sowell. "We need to be willing to put our phones down when we are spending time with them." She suggests waiting to respond to text messages, emails, and even phone calls when you are engaged in spending time with your children. "As parents, we need to lead by example and that means limiting our screen time as well," she adds.

Katy mom Angie Waller helps her family avoid experiencing technology overload by balancing her childrens’ screen time with face-to-face socialization. "For my younger ones, ages 8 and 10, they have to play outside either at the pool or just with friends in the yard before Internet time," says Waller. She also makes sure they’re involved in extracurricular activities and clubs. Waller says they are in "either a club at school, sports, or music. I have a football player and guitar player and a theater student."

Families may even want to challenge themselves to a "media fast," where they take a break from their normal digital routine to help them form new, healthy habits.

The Deeper Issue As a family, you may need to evaluate why you are spending excessive amounts of time on and behind the screen. For example, is it simply a bad habit or could you be escaping from stressful situations or issues within the family that need to be addressed?

"Evaluating why we do what we do is a great place to start," says Sowell. "The next step is to make a decision to make a change. Discuss this as a family and brainstorm together."

You may find that your children would rather spend time with you participating in a fun family activity, or you may realize that you need to invest more in your child so that they will be more excited about wanting to spend time together as a family.

Technology's Rightful Place Limit Internet time at home, and insist on family time. Area mom India Smith says her children have responded well to a point system where they earn screen time by reading. "The length of reading determines how much video game time that [my son] is allotted," says Smith. "For instance, 30 minutes of reading equals 15 minutes of technology, one hour equals 30 minutes and so on." Smith also finds that scheduling screen time for the latter part of the day keeps the family more in tune with each other and ensures more face-to-face time earlier in the day.

"Children of all ages learn by watching what their parents do with their time. Model to them that you are not ‘glued’ to your devices," Sowell suggests.

"In our schools, we use the ‘red light, green light system,’ and parents can easily incorporate this," says Rankin. "Green means full access to devices, yellow means at parents’ discretion, and red is no access."

Technology is a wonderful tool, but as with anything, it should be used in moderation and not as a replacement for one-on-one socializing. Sit down as a family and discuss your rules for digital devices, how you will use them, and what the limitations are. As parents, be sure you are following the rules as well, setting a strong example for your children to follow. You will all be thankful for the memories and conversations you will create together. Jaggers adds, "In the end, no one will look back on their life and say, ‘I wish I had spent more time online.’" KM

These local leaders share how they keep their teams energized and motivated to achieve victory on the field, in the classroom, and in life

Written by Kelly Boldt|Photography by Anetrius Wallace

Katy, TX News – Football coaches aren't just drill sergeants. They are also mentors, counselors, motivators, and strategic planners. Each one of Katy ISD's head football coaches has a different approach to their team, but a common thread is woven into each of them – their families. They are described as patient, tolerant, and understanding. The most important message is that behind every good coach is an amazing Katy family. Here is a quick glimpse of our Katy area high school coaches (in alphabetical order).

Don Clayton – Cinco Ranch High School

Cinco Ranch head coach Don Clayton loves working with and helping to develop athletes. "It's not a job; it's a calling," explains Clayton, who has been with the Cougars since their first football season in 2000. "I love the way football mirrors real life. You work hard to succeed and also learn along the way that you will get knocked down, but you have to get right back up and get after it again."

Discipline is also important for Clayton, as is intensity and a high level of commitment from his players and staff. This undertaking is not limited to the field. "We are here to supplement and reinforce what parents do in raising their children," says Clayton. "We try to be a positive influence to keep them on the right track."

Gary Joseph – Katy High School

After 32 years at Katy High School, coach Gary Joseph appears to have found the formula for success. He says it's discipline. Known as a tough, straightforward leader who works at developing trust with his players, Joseph also realizes the importance of being a mentor to his team. "Leadership is important," Joseph explains. "The biggest thing with our staff is developing trust with the kids. The players have to believe in what we’re saying. If they don't believe in anything or anybody, they’re not going to be committed to anything in life."

The Katy Tigers hope to continue their legacy of seven state championship wins. Joseph says, "I am proud to have helped build the great traditions at Katy High School over the years."

Lance Carter – Mayde Creek High School

The first word Mayde Creek head coach Lance Carter uses to describe his program is "tough." That's their style of practice, what he expects his players to bring to the field, and how his team plays on game day. "There are lots of other details, but what really drives us is our love for the game," Carter says. "Off the field, I have loved watching young men grow into their futures."

Carter also believes that coaches play an important role in other facets of their players’ lives. "So much of this game is a mentality," he says. "You’ve got to be very driven to play football, and we have the opportunity to use football to teach them drive and motivation that may last a lifetime."

Dave Meadows – Morton Ranch High School

Coach Dave Meadows believes he can be described as intense, thorough, and caring in his role as head football coach at Morton Ranch High School. "Our workouts are intense, and we work on things that are applicable to what the kids have to do on the field," says Meadows.

Physical training isn't the only aspect of being a good coach for Meadows. "We hold our players to a higher standard," he says. "They may not live up to them all the time, but we want them to understand that there are consequences if they make a bad decision. We are all part of this together." Meadows believes the Mavericks are ready for the new season. "What we are doing here is what suits us best. It may not work for everybody, but it works for us."

Lydell Wilson – Seven Lakes High School

In his third year at Seven Lakes High School, coach Lydell Wilson is working hard to achieve his goal of building a state champion-caliber team. Part of his strategy is to get involved with the kids. "I can relate to them, and they tend to respond to that," explains Wilson. "I try to get individual guys to understand that winning is important. Everybody has to sacrifice something for our team goals."

For example, Wilson sacrifices his personal time and encourages the players to make sacrifices for the betterment of the team as well. Wilson says, "Every second counts, and we want to make sure they put their all into everything they do."

Trey Hermann – Taylor High School

Head Coach Trey Herrmann will be taking over the reins at Taylor High School this year. Herrmann is a graduate of Mayde Creek High School and was previously part of the coaching staff at Mayde Creek and Seven Lakes high schools. He was named the 20-5A Coach of the Year in 2010.

Herrmann believes his hard work and commitment to the program will demonstrate the strong work ethic he expects from his players. "I am honest and work hard to be clear about expectations," says Herrmann. "But toughness has always been the most important part of what we do. Not just the physical part, but we want them to develop the mental strength to overcome obstacles."

Each program has its strengths, and Herrmann considers the off-season work by his players to be the cornerstone of his program. Herrmann adds, "We find that when players buy into it, that translates into better performance on the field during the season."

Tony Tademy – Tompkins High School

As the head coach of the newest Katy ISD football program, Tony Tademy at Tompkins High School knows he and the players have a special connection. "We are learning together, growing together, and every day is a new day for us," says Tademy. He says the team is ready for game time. "We have a plan, and every day we stick to that plan." Organization, attention to detail, and being honest with the athletes are all important components of Tademy's leadership style.

"We try to always do what's best for the kids and be as consistent as we can," says Tademy. "My coaches and I want them to know that we want to see them succeed."

Kelly Boldt is a freelance writer and Katy mother of three teenagers.

Katy Offers a Variety of Fun Family Activities

By Gabbi Browne

Katy, TX News – With June just about over, and the heat of July gearing up, my family needed a quieter Saturday. We decided not to travel to Houston-area places, as we sometimes do, but to stay closer to home. As most of you reading this know, Katy offers more than enough family activities to fill a weekend. Here's what we did one morning.

It was time to head home after lunch, and we were able to keep the boys awake until we got there. Naps came quickly after all that fun. Katy is the place to play together as a family for sure.

By Gabbi Browne

Katy, TX News – Our four boys are attending camp this week. It's three hours a day at a nearby school. Our oldest has attended this camp before, but it's the triplets’ first summer. While I am using my solo time well—Costco trips, exercise, laundry, and a dentist trip—I have to be honest that I miss my companions a bit.

I am hoping that the boys will be making some new friends, although they probably won't be year-long friends. It is meant to be a fun time for all.

Yesterday at pick-up time, the triplets said they liked camp. They had fun playing with the toys in the room. They didn't enjoy the sand in their shoes.

"How did it get in your shoes," I asked?

"We played in the sandbox."

"What can you do to not get sand in your shoes?"

"Not use the sandbox!"

Problem solved? Maybe?

They didn't know any of the names of the other children in their class. I asked them to tell me one name at today's pick-up. Challenge hopefully accepted!

Our almost-seven-year-old is a different story. He was alone in the class, sans brothers. It's a large group and the theme is math with pirates. He was eager to begin this camp session. It was unfortunate to hear that he had "no fun" on his first day.

"What happened?"

"No one spoke to me hardly at all."

My heart broke.

"That is tough. Did you talk to anyone?"

"A little."

"How about on Day Two you look for another boy who doesn't seem to have a close friend and you go talk to him?"

There are 18 other boys in the class; I am thinking someone else is feeling left out. I got him to tell me that he would do it, so let's see.

How do you more experienced parents handle situations like this? I am sure others like me would love to hear your hits and misses.

Katy mom Lara Massey shares her story of living through her worst nightmare, the tragic accident involving her 6-year-old daughter, and how Preslee Nicholson's journey of recovery has brought hope to many

Written by Lara Massey | Select photography by Sassy Massey Photography

Katy, TX News – Arriving four weeks early, Preslee was born a fighter. After spending her first seven days in NICU, she came home weighing a little less than five pounds. The first few months of her life were just a glimpse of her strength and will to live. When Preslee was 2, her dad and I divorced. He was awarded visitation at various times, mostly during summer vacation for six weeks. In time, I remarried, and in a few short years our family welcomed Kaylee and Jax. Our lives were complete.

Summer Days Friday, July 5, 2013 was normal. Our family spent the day swimming at my parent's house counting the days until Preslee returned home in two weeks. I knew Preslee would be traveling that day, and I was nervous. She was making a cross-country journey from Texas to Virginia with her dad's girlfriend to visit family. I talked to her that night and told her I loved her, to be good, and that I would call her in the morning. By then, she would be in Virginia. I went to sleep that night uneasy, I always worry. I kept thinking that if I could just sleep, I’d wake up in the morning and Preslee would be off the road, safe and sound.

The Call At 6 a.m. my cell phone rang. I heard a voice on the other end asking, "Are you the mother of Preslee Nicholson?" My heart stopped, and I said, "Yes." The doctor told me that my daughter had been in a terrible accident. The words, "her heart is still beating, but she is non-responsive. She is not breathing on her own and has critical injuries," kept repeating over and over.

Our lives changed in an instant. I woke up my husband Jarrod, and told him Preslee was hurt. I remember him flying out of bed and dropping to his knees, praying through his tears. I wasn't crying – I don't know why. We left the house with nothing except my purse and one phone charger. I threw up in the front yard, but I didn't cry.

Flying to Our Baby After dropping off our two younger children with my parents, we got a flight and were in Winston-Salem, bedside by 2 p.m. To this day, I don't know how I emotionally survived two flights across the country not knowing if my baby would be alive when I got there.

As our plane landed, the hospital informed me they were going to have to open Preslee's abdomen to relieve pressure and "to be aware." I wasn't even sure what that meant. I remember the drive to the hospital, I kept wondering with each curve of the road "Is this where it happened? Was my baby crying for me?"

Arriving at the hospital, I made my way to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Before I saw Preslee, her doctor informed me that it had been a single car accident. My daughter was found on the floorboard in the back seat, pinned down by one of the doors that had been inverted from the impact of the crash. Numb with fear, her doctor led me down a hallway to the last room. The room was large and filled with machines, a big bed, and my little girl. She was asleep, hurt, and swollen with a sheet covering her abdomen that now contained a wound vac with suction pulling blood and fluid out of her little body. She was on an oscillator to breathe.

Her skull was fractured, her femur was split in two, and her arm and wrist were broken. Her lungs were collapsed. Her liver and arms had deep lacerations. Her ligaments in her neck were torn, and her thoracic vertebra had compression fractures. She couldn't breathe on her own, sit up, or walk. She was heavily sedated due to pain. She's my gymnast, my partner in crime, and she's only 6.

Devastating Injuries I asked over and over if my daughter would be okay. The only response was that they were going to try their hardest to save my little girl's life. For now, we had to look at time in one-hour increments. If we get through this hour, we will look to the next. The doctors didn't know if she would have brain damage, be paralyzed, wake up, or if she would even survive. I prayed harder than I’ve ever prayed in my entire life. I reached out to my family and friends back home in Katy. I told them to pray. I told them to tell their friends to pray. Please God, save her. Please do not make me go home without my daughter.

Praying for Preslee From then on, the clock was ticking. In the coming days, we would see small improvements only to have a set back. Meanwhile, my friends set up a website, "Pray for Preslee Lynn." It soon became "P4P." Before I knew it, packages were being sent to the hospital, 20 to 30 letters a day, P4P car decals were made, and people started sending us clothes and personal items since we left home without anything. Ministers from all over North Carolina were stopping by to pray with us – it was amazing.

We spent the month of July in the hospital. Slowly, we moved her from the PICU, to intermediate care, and then to the general care floor. Preslee was weaned off of her medications. She started to show her doctors she knew exactly what they were saying and that she was determined to get out of there.

I sang to her in the hospital, painted her nails, put her hair in pigtail braids, and gave her feet spa treatments while she slept. I left music on 24/7, read books to her, and told her I loved her constantly. After 22 days, we were ready to go home. I was so happy, but knew we had a long road ahead of us. Preslee was in a turtle shell, a neck brace, arm cast, and couldn't do anything on her own. She was miserable, but she was alive. We couldn't fly, so God sent to us the amazing crew of Life Star Emergency Services. We made it home in approximately 21 hours via ambulance.

Coming Home to Katy Arriving home, there were balloons, gifts, meals, and packages from wonderful people who were following our journey. My small town of Katy amazed us with support.

Doctor's appointments started the next day. Within one week of being home, her neck brace came off. Within two weeks, her cast was gone. She started first grade in a wheelchair and turtle shell. By mid-September her turtle shell came off, and she was able to start putting pressure on her leg; and by the end of the month, the wheelchair was gone. Within three days of being out of her wheelchair, she was walking. Within two days of being out of her turtle shell she climbed the rock wall at the mall.

She started gymnastics again, loves swimming and diving, playing with her siblings, and touching lives. I don't know what is in store for the rest of Preslee's life, or for mine, but I know I made it through my worst nightmare. I still question why. But something amazing and beautiful came from this tragedy. A little girl changed the hearts of so many, and let God shine through her. KM

EDITOR’S NOTE: We would like to thank Lara Massey for sharing her story of faith and strength. If you have an inspirational story you would like to share, email [email protected]. As one of our former Katy Magazine cover girls, we will always be cheering for Preslee!

Katy ISD campuses discuss the importance of this anti-bullying campaign

Written by Kirsten Cornell | Photography by Anetrius Wallace

Katy, TX News – The No Place for Hate initiative, which launched in schools in 2001 by the Anti-Defamation League, provides educators and students with the resources to ensure that anti-bias and diversity education are an integral part of the school curriculum. "Our campus made the decision to pursue the No Place for Hate campus designation because we felt it was important for all students to feel accepted, valued, and respected for their individual differences," says Doreen Martinez, assistant principal at Morton Ranch Junior High. "We also wanted to provide an opportunity to bring attention to bullying and help educate students on the negative effects of teasing, ostracism, intimidation, and rumor spreading."

Earning the Designation The Anti-Defamation League asks that designated campuses hold meetings to discuss the initiative with the students and discuss active ways in which they can participate. "Students sign a resolution of respect and in doing so, they commit to ensuring that our school is a No Place for Hate campus," explains Cimarron Elementary counselor Elizabeth Kratz. "Children spend most of their time with us, and we are the guiding factor in their lives. We want to make sure they understand differences not only in themselves, but in others as well."

Stephens Elementary planned a "mix it up" at lunch where students were encouraged to invite students they didn't know to sit and eat with them. "The goal was to make sure every student was included and felt welcome," says Stephanie Vaughan, the school's principal. Their culminating activity to-date has been a school-wide diversity concert, including a repertoire of songs representing different cultures.

At Morton Ranch, their No Place for Hate (NPH) Club meets at the beginning of the year to select three activities that will address appreciating differences, respect, kindness towards others, and anti-bullying efforts on campus. This year, the NPH club chose to have a Bullying Awareness Month which included a Unity Day where the entire school wore orange in support of bringing an end to bullying.

Club members also utilized technology to research various celebrities who had been bullied as teenagers during their Celebrity Bully Quotes event. "Students designed graphics with celebrity names and quotes about their personal experiences," explains Martinez. "The goal was to help students understand that even famous celebrities had experienced, and were able to overcome, the negative effects of bullying." The students also plan to create a multimedia presentation about how bullying impacts a student's life.

The Scarring Truth According to the National Education Association, it is estimated that 160,000 children miss school every day due to fear of attack or intimidation by other students. "Schools need to be a safe place for students and staff. No one should feel like they don't belong," says Saneé Bell, Cimarron's principal. "Bullying excludes others and is damaging emotionally. It can take years to heal the scars that occur from acts of bullying, and it is important that we eradicate it from our schools."

Children who are bullied can experience negative physical, school, and mental health issues. Martinez believes that because bullying can take on various forms, many students experience bullying in some way. Morton Ranch's goal when working with students who are experiencing bullying is to help them understand that the bully has the issue, not them. "I want our students to feel confident in themselves and take a more assertive position by taking the appropriate steps to stop bullying," adds Martinez.

Vaughan understands that what her students are learning in elementary school impacts how they will behave in the future and interact with others long after they have left the Stephens campus. "Young children are very impressionable, and they emulate what is modeled," she says. "It is our responsibility to educate our students about acceptance and model it." She adds that students know that bullying and disrespectfulness will not be tolerated, "We continue to have high expectations for how our students and staff treat one another."

United Against Bullying Part of preventing campus bullying is providing outlets for students to report incidents or discuss any issue they may be having in a safe environment. "Safety Net" has been utilized at several Katy ISD campuses and proven effective. "The safety net box is located in the library and students can fill out a form and drop it off. It is then checked by the school counselor," explains Vaughan. "Students are encouraged to tell any adult that they are most comfortable confiding in as soon as possible."

Campuses have noticed a significant difference in the atmosphere since accepting the NPH Challenge. At Cimarron, Kratz notes that children feel more free to talk to others and communicate their needs when they need assistance. "It has created a positive environment. Our students are very accepting of others and seek out help when they feel that someone is not being treated with respect," she says. "Since this is our fifth year of being a NPH campus, we can see the difference in the level of respect and acceptance of individual differences and backgrounds," adds Vaughan. Stephens Elementary has plans to expand their diversity book club and continue with programs that celebrate diversity through fine arts and in the classroom.

Martinez maintains that is important for students to know how to be proactive in addressing negative behavior by finding peaceful solutions and relying on staff to help keep them safe. "We have seen an awareness of the NPH club at Morton Ranch. Our students know that we are united with the campus to put an end to bullying," she adds.

"Cimarron is a family, and we want all of our children to feel safe when they come to school. If students do not feel safe, they will not learn," explains Kratz. "By teaching students that hate is not tolerated and that kindness is the right thing, students are more likely to have positive attitudes about themselves and others." KM

KIRSTEN CORNELL is the lead associate editor for Katy Magazine. She has seen the effects of campus bullying and applauds Katy ISD for taking an active stand against it.

Local students are giving back to others here at home and around the globe

Written by Holly Leger

Katy, TX News – As a teenager, it's easy to get caught up in the world of adolescence. But these Katy teens received a reality check after going on mission trips – some around the world, and others in their own hometown. Katy Magazine reached out to these young men and women to hear their inspirational stories.

A World Apart Johannesburg, South Africa may look like any other large, well-to-do city, but as the youth group at Parkway Fellowship discovered, the outskirts of the city are the polar opposite. The teenagers walked through squatter camps, performing door-to-door ministries.

Parkway student pastor Chris Sedgwick says the camps have very small square footage, yet house hundreds of thousands of residents and refugees. "It's very hard conditions," Sedgwick says. "It's a maze of shacks. You have to walk sideways in between houses."

Seeing True Joy The youth group split into groups of four, each one assigned with a translator, and walked from hut to hut to help others, share the story of Jesus, and pray.

Skylar Station, a 17-year-old youth member, says that although she was shocked by the poverty she witnessed while in South Africa, she was just as surprised by the level of pride and joy the people showed for their homes and family. "Even though they’re in these horrible conditions, they’re still happy," Station says. "They haven't lost sight of hope."

Building Relationships Traveling with the student organization at Second Baptist Church, 17-year-old Ansley Harris went to Belize City, Belize to help make renovations on a local Catholic school during her spring break.

While Harris and her fellow youth members were painting, the children at the school would periodically come outside during their breaks.

Harris says, "That's when we would stop our work, go build relationships, and get to know the kids." Harris reached out to the parents, too. A mother came to bring her children lunch each day, and Harris said she bonded with their family the entire week.

"Each day, I got to hear more of her story and tell her more of mine," Harris says. "It was neat to pray over her and tell her why I believe what I believe. She was already a Christian, but we went into depth. It was a cool experience, and to talk to her kids about it, too, was neat."

Harris says the experiences she had in Belize, as well as others she's had this year while doing local mission work, helped her learn the world doesn't revolve around her. Instead, she realized she is on Earth to serve, just as Jesus did. "For me, it was kind of a news flash and a slap in the face," Harris explains. "Like, ‘Hey, Ansley! What are you doing to serve others? What are you doing to share the gospel?’ It was a super humbling experience."

Close to Home If you double dog dare 18-year-old Josh Corley to do something, he doesn't back down. That is, if it's a dare at Grace Fellowship United Methodist Church.

In 2013, Josh applied for Grace's Double Dog Dare Grant, which offers money to members who would like to plan a mission project. For Josh, that mission plan was easy: help the homeless men and women in the Katy area.

His mother, Dora Corley, says she was not surprised by her son's decision. "Josh has always had a heart towards homeless people," Dora says. "I’ve asked him why, and he replies, ‘You see them all the time, and they’re real people. But we’ll never know who they are, because we just drive by them.’"

Assisting the homeless was just part of Josh's plan, though. He has Asperger's syndrome and wanted to do the mission project with other special needs families at The Bridge, a ministry offered at Grace.

Building a Bridge The Bridge provides services for approximately 50 individuals. Josh said he knew a big group like that could make a big impact, as well as prove to others what they’re capable of doing.

"The special needs kids can actually do stuff," he says. "We’re not just sitting around." With the $500 Josh received from the grant, he bought Ziploc bags, toiletries, and other essentials. When the project was completed, Dora asked Josh what he thought of the day's work. "He said, ‘I feel great inside.’" KM

HOLLY LEGER is a freelance writer who was constantly reminded during this story what a great spiritual gift serving can be.

Four multigenerational families trace their roots back to the community's first settlers

Written by Ella Hearrean | Select photography by Sara Isola

Katy, TX News – Back when there was only one high school and the Firethorne community was a series of rice fields, four well-known Katy families planted roots in a community that they would spend generations investing in. They have built a legacy that impacts not only their families but future Katyites as well.

The Fussell and Schmidt Families As a child, Sandy Fussell Schmidt watched the buzz of downtown Katy from her mother's antique shop. She remembers the excitement when her father, Katy's first volunteer fire chief, heard the siren. "Anyone who had a business was a volunteer. Men from the hardware store and grocery store would come running out in their aprons."

Schmidt's small town roots began in the early 1900s, when both of her grandfathers settled in Katy, one as a rice farmer and one as a grocery store owner. Her family has long since been prominent members of the community. Her mother, Blanche, served as the Chamber of Commerce secretary; her uncle, Durwood Fussell, began what is now Brazos Valley Schools Credit Union from his desk drawer as business manager of Katy ISD. Her uncle Mel Jordan, a lifelong rice farmer and rancher, still calls Katy home, along with 38 of his 51 family members.

Her immediate family is just as deeply rooted. Her husband, Hank, served as fire chief, a city council member, and mayor. Her son, Trey, works at Schmidt Funeral Home, and her daughter, Kris, and son-in-law, Arturo Gonzales, are both doctors in the area. "Everyone has always been active and knows what's going on with everyone else," says Schmidt.

Today, Schmidt stays busy with Keep Katy Beautiful, Katy First United Methodist Church, and with her four grandchildren. "I’m amazed at the explosive growth of this city – it's hard to figure out who's who. But there's a spirit here. This is home," she says. To the next generation of Katyites, Schmidt gives this advice: "Be involved. Help grow it. You get what you give, especially in a small community."

The Cardiff Family Hal Cardiff remembers Katy High School before its winning reputation. As quarterback of the school's first 11-man football team, he lost every game his first year. "We were this little farming community with a small, old stadium surrounded by larger, more experienced schools. We played both offense and defense because we were barely able to muster up enough players," remembers Cardiff.

His father, Charles, was one of many Cardiffs who had settled in Katy in the early 1900s as a rice farmer. After his high school graduation in 1947, Hal and his older brothers inherited their father's land and continued to farm rice. Over the years, they and other Cardiff family members have served the community as city council members, school board trustees, and teachers.

The Cardiff family was honored as the namesake of Cardiff Junior High in 2008 for their pioneering efforts. Now retired, Hal Cardiff and his wife, Lynn, have four children. Their 11 grandchildren closely follow the success of the Katy Tigers. He is delighted that his son-in-law, Mickey Thompson, is one of the coaches. "Katy football is just so different now, but it is still home to me. Football brings everyone together."

The Franz and Fry Families David Peter Franz arrived in Katy in 1896 when he traveled from Russia to escape military service. Formerly a jeweler, Franz reinvented himself as a farmer and raised crops such as peanuts, corn, and rice. His sons continued the farming business after he retired; one of his sons, C.D. Franz, married Carrie Fry in 1906.

Their granddaughter, Donnah Mau Jones, lives in her grandparents’ home and recalls memories of growing up on a farm. "All I could see were rice fields for miles. My cousins lived a mile or so from me in either direction," says Jones. She remembers gathering eggs, digging for bullfrogs, and jerkily learning to drive a tractor with her dad. "I couldn't call friends after school because we shared a party line with a cousin that talked all the time. I’d keep picking up the phone, and she’d still be talking," laughs Jones.

Several local landmarks honor both sides of her family, including Franz Rd., Franz Elementary, and Fry Rd. Now retired with two children and two grandchildren, Jones and her husband, Larry, are happy with the new developments in Katy. "I’m quite pleased with the hospitals that are out here now. They are really good for our community; there is very little reason to go into Houston."

The Beckendorff Family When Lawrence Beckendorff graduated from college with a degree in agriculture, he joined his father in the family rice farming and ranching business that had been established by his great-grandfather and grandfather in the early 1900s. "I enjoyed farming because you knew what you had to do and when it had to be done," says Beckendorff. "There was always something different to do and after the harvest, most of the early farmers spent their time off hunting."

Beckendorff says that over 60,000 acres of prairie in the area have gradually dwindled to only around 5,000 acres due to years of development. "It's unreal how fast Katy has developed. Homes and traffic have replaced farms and rice fields. I remember when I-10 was just two lanes. Not only is it bigger, but now the Grand Pkwy. has opened the whole area."

In 2004, Beckendorff Junior High was named in honor of the family legacy. Beckendorff and his wife, Pamela, have one son, Trey, and are active members of the Katy Heritage Society. "A lot has changed, but it was inevitable because of our proximity to Houston and our good school system. It's a great place to be." KM

ELLA HEARREAN is a freelance writer, editor, and proofreader.

Former Taylor High School student and Broadway veteran, Kearran Giovanni, dishes about her life as a wife, mom, and actress

Written by Kirsten Cornell

Katy, TX News – Growing up in Katy, Kearran Giovanni filled her days with cheering on the Taylor High School Mustangs and driving down Mason Rd. heading to the local movie theater with friends. "I love the hometown feel of Katy," says Giovanni. "It's a place that stops in time as far as family values go."

The Early Years Giovanni didn't always picture herself as a flourishing actress. In fact, she had a completely different path in mind. "I had solid plans to attend Rice University and become an ob/gyn," she says.

Focusing on dance, gymnastics, and cheer, she has fond memories of attending Becky's Academy of Dance where she did a majority of her training. "I met some of my closest friends in the dance company, and I still go back and visit every time I’m in town," she adds.

It wasn't until she attended the High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Houston her senior year that she even entertained the thought of acting. "I didn't really perform anything ‘theatrical’ until college," laughs Giovanni, who attended the College of Conservatory Music in Ohio. "I was more focused on dance and gymnastics." It was in Cincinnati that she discovered her love for musical theatre, and a new path for her life became clear.

"My parents are my biggest fans. They were always supportive of everything I wanted to do growing up," she says. "They told me nothing can go wrong as long as I work to my full potential."

Life on Broadway Determined to pursue her stage career, Giovanni headed to the birthplace of Broadway in 2004, the Big Apple. Landing her first role in The Lion King, many other credits soon followed, including Anything Goes, Catch Me If You Can, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Guys & Dolls, Hugh Jackman: Back on Broadway, and Tarzan. But Giovanni considers her first breakout role to be when she landed a lead part as Helene, starring alongside well-known actress Christina Applegate in Sweet Charity. "It was thrilling to be 23 and get such a fantastic role," she recalls.

The feel of a live audience is one of the factors of musical theatre that drives Giovanni. "They bring so much energy to a show every night. I also love being able to use my whole body to perform," she says. "Screen acting is so much smaller; it takes practice to rein it in."

Although exhilarating, Giovanni admits that the world of acting is not as glamorous as some might think, especially in the world of theatre. "It's a grind of eight shows a week. I’ve worked every Christmas for 10 years," she says. "We’re up there performing two or three shows a day when everyone comes to New York to catch a Thanksgiving show."

In addition to honing her skills and developing her repertoire of Broadway experience, New York is also where Giovanni met her husband, Philip Ambrosino.

Life as Detective Sykes In 2009, Giovanni secured the part of Vivienne Wright on the daytime Emmy-winning series One Life to Live and expanded her acting into TV roles. While she has played many characters, she cites her current role as Amy Sykes, an undercover police detective and military veteran who served in Afghanistan on TNT's series Major Crimes, as one of her favorites. "Amy gets a back story this season. I think fans are really curious about what makes her who she is, and now they’ll finally see why," Giovanni explains.

The third season of Major Crimes, which will debut in June 2014, is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats. "The show will have a great rhythm this season," adds Giovanni. "It’ll vary from some fantastic comedy to some heartbreaking episodes."

While Giovanni says there is always a lot of jabbing and practical joking on set, the hours are long and the cast works hard to make sure they are giving it their all. "I typically wake up around 5 a.m. and sneak out of the house to the set so I don't wake anyone," laughs Giovanni. After hair, makeup, and blocking rehearsals, they usually shoot scenes for around 12 hours. "We have a great time," she adds.

Becoming a Mother Having relocated to Los Angeles, Giovanni enjoys spending downtime with her husband and two daughters, Jordan, 6, and Peyton, 4. "Balancing everything can be tricky of course. I keep a calendar everywhere and try to stay on top of who goes where and who has what," she says. "And we always make it a point to have a date night once a week."

Giovanni and her family love being outdoors whether its concerts, a park, or having a backyard barbecue. "I often refer to myself as the ‘activities queen,’" she laughs. They even include the family's long-haired Chihuahua, Neo.

Having a stunning actress as a mom has not altered her girls’ perspective. "They have only seen me on TV once, and it was me on the soap opera getting a pie thrown in my face. They think that's all I do now – like a clown," she says with a smile.

Giovanni also says that becoming a mom has made her appreciate her own mother even more, and she has learned not to sweat the small stuff. "It really humbles you," she says. "No matter what is going on at work, you’ll still be ‘mother’ when you get back home."

A Heart for Others In addition to her TV roles, Broadway, and being the family's event coordinator, Giovanni is also heavily involved in several charities. She is active with the Sunshine Kids Organization, which was founded by fellow Major Crimes cast member G.W. Bailey, and is dedicated to providing fun events to children receiving cancer treatments.

Another cause close to Giovanni's heart is the Lupus Foundation, especially after losing her mother to the autoimmune disorder. She also maintains a philanthropic passion for the Special Olympics and is an active supporter of dance programs and art projects that are centered on helping children. "Times have changed, and so many young people haven't been given the guidance to make strong choices," she explains. "I was lucky enough to have parents and teachers that gave me the confidence to own my decisions and to fall, and then get back up."

To other young people pursuing a career in acting, her advice is clear: "Make a choice for your future, work toward it 100%, and don't be afraid to fall, then get up and try again." KM

KIRSTEN CORNELL is the lead associate editor for Katy Magazine. She is a fan of Kearran Giovanni and Major Crimes, and is looking forward to seeing more of Detective Sykes.

Please verify business specials and promos by visiting their websites; they may have changed after our print date.

Several factors contribute to poor posture-most commonly, improper spinal alignment, stress, obesity, pregnancy, weak postural muscles, abnormally tight muscles, and high-heeled shoes. In addition, decreased flexibility, a poor work environment, incorrect working posture, and unhealthy sitting and standing habits can also contribute to poor body positioning.

How to sit properly:

• Keep your feet on the floor or on a footrest, if they don't reach the floor.

• Don't cross your legs. Your ankles should be in front of your knees.

• Keep a small gap between the back of your knees and the front of your seat.

• Your knees should be at or below the level of your hips.

• Adjust the backrest of your chair to support your low- and mid-back or use a back support.

• Relax your shoulders and keep your forearms parallel to the ground.

• Avoid sitting in the same position for long periods of time.

Understanding correct posture and remembering to maintain correct posture during a long work day are two very different things. There are software programs that pop up a reminder to stretch or stand at certain time intervals or you could simply set an hourly timer on your phone or watch, even a post it note saying "sit up straight" is enough to give you that mental cue to remind you to take a short break and assess your posture, even small changes like these can make a huge difference in the health of your spine over the years. And of course…get adjusted regularly!

Dr. Craig Nemow, D.C. Chiro Dynamics

By Gabbi Browne

Road Trips Old Style Katy, TX News – Summer is officially here, and many families are planning road trips. Katy is a great starting point for drivable daytrips. What to do to help make those drive times more enjoyable? Here are some simple things parents can do to help avoid the sounds of agony from the backseat.

By Cadet Staff Sergeant Faith

From start to finish, food to fun, and work to rides, Thunderbird cadets had a great time volunteering at the Cajun Invasion Festival at Katy Mills Mall. May 16 – 18 was a bright and sunny weekend, perfect for the carnival. Thunderbird Composite Squadron was invited by Katy Mills Head of Security to assist as a response team, perform trash pick up, and patrol the inner and outer perimeters of the festival. "We looked at it like a mission," said Senior Member 1st Lieutenant Torre LoDolce, who was in charge of the cadets for the weekend. Cadets were split into teams and given radios to communicate. A tent was set up as headquarters. It served as a place for visitors to come and ask questions about the Civil Air Patrol (CAP). Many people, as well as vendors, were very impressed by the cadets performance around the carnival and came to inquire about CAP. Members of CAP always have opportunities to participate in events and activities similar to the Cajun Invasion Festival because volunteer service is one of the most important core values for the organization. The festival offered a great opportunity to explain as well as demonstrate what CAP is all about.

Many Cadets and Seniors volunteered throughout the weekend so that the work was distributed evenly. Everyone had a chance to enjoy the rides and games. There were several live performances including Kimberly Caldwell, Katy native. She was the seventh place finalist on American Idol. As she invited children up to the stage, cadets Zach Lexa and Truitt LoDolce jumped into the group. The two jammed out on stage with the pop star.

Every cadet enjoyed volunteering at the festival. "It was a fun experience," said Cadet Technical Sergeant Zach Lexa. "Sure we cleaned up, but we had fun doing it." Katy Mills Mall was pleased with Thunderbird's performance and welcomes them back.

Summertime is a good time to face challenges of the school year

The last 180 days have been a whirlwind for many families. We are the parents of four boys. Our oldest just completed kindergarten. Our heads are still spinning over how much our little boy has grown in such a short amount of time. I think it's important to take some time this summer to reflect a bit on what changes may have occurred in our children. Celebrate and encourage the good, and think of some ways to tackle the challenges that also reared their ugly head.

Of course he's grown in size. He barely squeezes into the shorts he began school with; however, I couldn't seem to muster up the motivation to buy new shorts for the last month of school. This sudden growth has been fed, literally, by his increase in appetite. I thought I was giving him enough food each day. In the spring, he let me know that I needed to "add something else in a plastic bag" to his lunch box. I am planning on meeting this challenge head-on by having him help me pack his lunch each night. Or perhaps having him put together five or 10plastic baggies on Sunday and he can put whatever two he chooses into the lunch box each morning.

Fine motor, fine motor, fine motor skills. We know our son can certainly work on these seemingly all-important concepts. While he can stand to practice proper pencil grip and handwriting, we have seen progress since day one. We like to encourage him to work hard on writing and cutting while he is at school. To meet this challenge over the summer, he will spend some time working on these things. I know other children have issues with reading, math, or social behavior. Summer seems the perfect time to practice needed skills in a relaxed setting.

Our son has made new friends this year. We would like to encourage these friendships while walking the thin line of being important role models to him. One challenge this year has been new sayings, new likes, and new ways of playing – all brought on by his being surrounded by 18 other kindergartners each day. Summer is an easy answer to bring back family time. The pace is slower, and memories can be made over splash pads, board games, bike rides, and visits with relatives. It is a joy to see the boys playing Legos or cars together instead of wolfing down breakfast to get to school on time.

We definitely want to encourage our son to hold onto the concepts he has learned and begun to master. He found a lot of interests during these past 180 days. Map skills, a little Texas history, number lines, and music are just a few of the things he has come home excited about. During the summer, we’d like to spend some time on digging a little deeper into these kinds of things. Trips to the library or museum are planned, of course, as well as YouTube videos that might help him see and learn a bit more.

What kinds of challenges and changes have you experienced this school year? How do you plan to meet the challenges head on? How will your child spend the summer?

Katy Treasures: Must-see stops in Katy

You don't have to live here very long to find out that Katy is full of fun and surprises for the whole family. Here are some of the most popular Katy destinations for local residents.

George Bush Park & Millie Bush Bark Park 16756 Westheimer Pkwy. 281-496-2177 The sixth-largest city park in the nation boasts 12 miles of walking, biking, and equestrian trails winding around picturesque Buffalo Bayou. For the dog lover, there is also a 15-acre dog park where pups can run without a leash and splash in one of three puppy ponds.

Katy Budget Books 2450 Fry Rd. 281-578-7770 For more than 25 years, this independent bookstore has offered Katyites a huge selection of new and used books as well as gifts, accessories, book clubs, special book release events for kids, author signings, school book list fulfillment, and more.

Katy Heritage Park 6001 George Bush Dr. 281-395-1124 If you’re interested in the history of Katy, Katy Heritage Park offers free tours of gorgeous historic homes and buildings preserved by the Katy Heritage Society. The park also boasts one-of-a-kind Katy exhibits at the Wright Museum, and is a popular site for local photographers looking for interesting backdrops. Call 281-391-2550 for hours and tour availability.

Katy Mills Mall 5000 Katy Mills Cir. 281-644-5015 Whether you’re hunting a bargain or looking for great entertainment, the Katy Mills Mall is the place to go. This enormous indoor shopping destination features more than 175 stores and outlets as well as multiple dining options and entertainment venues for the whole family.

LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. 281-395-5533 Located in the heart of Cinco Ranch, this pedestrian-style shopping experience showcases more than 50 retailers, restaurants, and office spaces. LaCenterra also hosts seasonal events including an annual Fourth of July celebration, visits from Santa, and Mondays with Mommy in the square. It's newest anchor, Trader Joe's, is also opening in 2014.

The mother of Julian Salinas, a young bowler formerly featured in Katy Magazine's summer 2011 Notes and News section, recently updated us on her son's current endeavors.

As a fifth grader at Hubenak Elementary, Salinas is staying busy both academically and through outside extracurricular activities. Over the past few years, Salinas has continued to practice, compete, and improve his bowling game, helping him become one of the top ranked bowlers in his age bracket in Texas. Salinas currently bowls with three different leagues – COYSL Youth League at Times Square Entertainment in Katy, SSS Sport League at Copperfield, and HS Travel League with the regional high school bowlers in Katy/Houston.

Through bowling, Salinas has won awards and over $2500 in scholarships that will go towards his college fund. During summer he will compete against the best bowlers in the country in the USBC Junior Gold Championships in Buffalo, NY.

Katy parents share tips on common topics we all face.

Need Advice? Have helpful tips to share? This section is where Katy parents help other parents with great advice and tips for common kid issues and childhood dilemmas.

Written by Kirsten Cornell

How do you handle a toddler's tantrum in a public place?

Prepare Ahead of Time "I always try to address this before we go to a public place. For instance, if you throw a fit while we are in Target, we will leave without getting anything. Make sure you follow through. Park that basket and promptly leave. If it happens in a restaurant, I will go sit in the car with them for a time out and a nice long talk." – Meredith Gilbert

Give a Warning "I will punish my kids during the tantrum if they disobey after the first warning. I love my children enough to get them to act straight, have manners, and respect for adults." – Bobbi Shea

Relax, It Happens to Everyone "Most importantly, it's ok. Every parent has had to find out what works when dealing with tantrums. You are not alone and not everyone who looks at you is with disapproval, most are sympathetic. I always say a prayer in my head for the parent when I see a child having a public meltdown." – Michelle Molinari

Remove Them from the Situation "Remove them to a more private place to talk to them, but remember that you are the adult and the child should not be telling you what to do. With my kids, we sometimes discuss expected behavior on the way to our destination." – Christina Gamble

Check out more helpful tips in our Parent Talk article.

Want to be part of our Katy parent panel? Follow us on Facebook and post your answers to common questions.

Katy families share their thoughts on "The Importance of Grandparents." Four ways they enrich the lives of their grandchildren.

Written by Heather Lowrie | Select photography by Sara Isola

A grandparent inspires, educates, and loves unconditionally. This special relationship is created in love and forged by family ties that can't be broken. Carl and Norma Lenz remember how they felt when they got the wonderful news that they would be grandparents. "An overwhelming feeling of excitement and awe came over us," says Norma. "That was shortly followed by an awareness of the responsibility to be the best grandparents we knew how to be." Whether you have been a grandparent for years, or you are waiting for the arrival of a new grandbaby any minute now, the unique relationship between grandparents and grandchildren is something that must be experienced to truly understand.

What's in. What's hot. What's fun!

Gowns • Bright Colors • Bold Patterns • Mermaid-style • Hi-low Skirts • Beaded Bodices • Flowing Skirts • Short Gowns

Hairstyles • Side Ponytails • Messy Braids • Loose Updos • Sleek Waves • Tousled Buns • Fishtail Braids

Makeup • Bold Lip Colors • Natural Eyes • Bronze Cheeks • Lash Extensions

Sweet Rides • Classic Cars • Party Buses • Limos • Hummers

Ways to Ask Ask early! Your date has a lot to buy and plan. • Spell it out in rose petals • Have it written in icing on a cake • Hang a large sign in the school • Team up with friends for a singing telegram • Light votive candles spelling "Prom?" • Write it on her Starbucks order

To advertise, call 281-579-9840 or email [email protected]

Experts say the same-sex parent is the most important role model in a child's life. Here are some great together-time tips and local ideas for making the most of your mother-daughter or father-son relationship.

Written by Kirsten Cornell

Mother & Daughter

1. Sign up for a jewelry making class together at Multiplicity in historic Katy. 2. Get dressed up and have a tea party with some winter melon black tea from Kim's Tea House. 3. Get your hair done together at Pari's Gallery, BH Hair Studio, or Simply Irresistible. 4. Pick up two copies of the same book at Katy Budget Books for a mom-and-me book club. 5. Get a cookie at Nestle Tollhouse Café at LaCenterra then hit Justice for some cute clothes. 6. Paint ceramics at Plaster Fun House and Ceramics. 7. Get dolled up and go to the Santikos Palladium. 8. Head to a local nail salon for mommy-daughter mani-pedi's. 9. Order matching pajamas from pajamagram.com and have a mommy-daughter movie night. 10. Go to lunch at D’Amico's Italian Market Café followed by a movie at Cinemark.

Father & Son

1. Play a round of blacklight miniature golf or laser tag at Tilt Studio. 2. Hit Midway in historic Katy for some of the best barbecue in town. 3. Take aim at sporting clays at American Shooting Centers. 4. Head to Houston Fun Plex for bumper cars, rides, arcade games, and endless play. 5. Go to Mary Jo Peckham Park or other local pond for a day of fishing. 6. Enjoy a game of billiards or bowling at Times Square Entertainment. 7. Practice your golf swing and enjoy some food at TopGolf. 8. Visit Texas One Athletics and book their batting cage for a half hour of practice. 9. Go to Katy Mills’ Jump Street for boundless bouncing and fun. 10. Find your way to Steak ‘n Shake and have a pancake eating contest with their all-you-can-eat pancake special.

Beck's Student Discovery Contest Julia Yang recently won Beck Junior High's first Student Directory Cover Contest. The theme was "Just Think." As part of her prize, Yang received a Beck Junior High hoodie and a decal. Pictured is Yang with principal Carra Fleming.

Rachel's Challenge at Beckendorff JH Larry Scott, the uncle of Rachel Scott who was the first student killed at Columbine High School in 1999, shared with Beckendorff Junior High students about the program Rachel's Challenge. The challenge is based on five ideas: look for the best in others, dream big, choose positive influences, speak with kindness, and start a chain reaction. Pictured are PTA vice president of programs, Amber Willingham; Larry Scott; principal Mindy Dickerson; and PTA president Ashley Vann.

CRHS Concerto Winner Ethan Le Ethan Le, a sophomore at Cinco Ranch High School recently won the Clear Lake Symphony 2014 Youth Concerto Competition. As the winner, he will be performing the first movement of Beethoven's "Violin Concerto in D major" at the Clear Lake Symphony on March 21 at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church.

Seven Lakes Gives Quilts to Texas Children's Hospital The Seven Lakes High School fashion design class donated their lap quilt creations to the Texas Children's Hospital West Campus. Pictured are Katy Williford, child life specialist; Jordan Groth; Samantha Gautier; Krista Caballero, child life specialist; Kaitlyn French; Emily Grass; and Sarah Rowe, child life specialist.

Cinco Ranch Robotics Team Invited to Texas Bowl For the second year in a row the Cinco Ranch High School Robotics Team 624 "CRyptonite" was invited to the Texas Bowl. The team represents the For Inspirations and Recognition of Science and Technology Robotics, showcasing their Frisbee shoot robot, Thor. Pictured are Johnny Goforth, Shayan Baig, Dylan Bray, and Justin Kleiber.

Mission Possible at Taylor High School The Taylor High School student council partners with school staff to help raise funds for the Stephen and Stephanie Poss family. Both Stephen and Stephanie work at Taylor High School and recently had a son, Beckham, prematurely. Taylor students and staff have raised over $5,000 to go towards the family's rising medical bills.

Beck JH Welcomes Principal Beck Junior High welcomes their new principal, Carra Fleming from Holland Elementary School where she also served as principal. Former Beck principal Jeff Stocks now serves at Taylor High School. Pictured are seventh-grade assistant principal Dan DeYoung, eighth-grade assistant principal Marsha Dufner, Beck PTA president Maggie Boyle, new Beck Jr. High principal Carra Fleming, and sixth-grade assistant principal Kevin Webber.

KYB Owls Meet Rice Lady Owls The KYB Owls basketball team recently got to do a clinic with the Rice University Lady Owls. Included in the meet-up was Rice's No. 40, Megan Palmer, a Cinco Ranch grad.

Katy is a mecca for family fun. Whether you are shopping with friends, tackling your next game of laser tag, or just want to enjoy the sunshine at the park, these activities will help your family create special memories.

Written by Katrina Katsarelis and Christen Wilson

Times Square Entertainment Spend an evening at Times Square for some bowling, laser tag, pizza, billiards, food, and arcades. This fun-filled atmosphere provides a great assortment of activities to enjoy. Package pricing varies, and updated specials are available online. timessquaretx.com

Family Fave Eateries Grab a bite to eat at your fun, local, kid-friendly restaurants like Buffalo Wild Wings for Trivia Night or Jimmy Changas to enjoy their kids’ play area. Head out to eat all-you-can-eat pizza at DoubleDave's Pizzaworks or trot on over to Clay's Restaurant for award-winning burgers that your family is sure to love.

Katy Mills Grab your shoes for a night of shopping, jumping, fishing, and exploring. Katy Mills has a ton of options for your family night out. Visit Jump Street, Bass Pro Shop for some fishing, rent a Segway, walk through the Rain Forest, or visit the cafe. Tiltoffers more than 200 video and redemption games for your family to enjoy. simon.com/mall/katy-mills

Mary Jo Peckham Park Create memories that your children are sure to cherish for a lifetime. Mary Jo Peckham Park has activities for everyone in your family such as fishing, putt-putt, disc golf, lighted biking and walking trails, playgrounds, gazebos, and indoor exercise. pct3.hctx.net/parks/maryjopeckham.aspx

Santikos Palladium This venue provides families with many fun happenings. Every Wednesday at 11 a.m. enjoy "Mommy Matinees," which have brighter lighting, lower sound, stroller parking, and more. Children under age 3 are free. santikos.com

Inflatable Katy This fun house is custom-designed with 16,500 ft. of space for three playrooms, one standard room, and free air hockey. Mini golf, batting cages, and a Eurobungy are right next door if you’d rather take the fun outside. There are six batting cages with dual pitching machines able to accommodate up to four players at one time for baseball or softball hitters. inflatablekaty.com

Villagio Town Center Escape to this Tuscan-like Village to your favorite restaurant or yogurt store. Find a seat in the courtyard and enjoy live music or walk around enjoy the picturesque view of the fountain and clock tower. Enjoy reading at the Bookworm Shop if you’re ready to find some good books for everyone in your family. villagiotowncenter.com

LaCenterra & Central Green Enjoy the spring weather with some outdoor shopping at LaCenterra. Grab a smoothie or snack at one of the many restaurant options and relax on their new green space, Central Green. In the summer months, Central Green will host movies, concerts, and other family fun activities. lacenterra.com

Cinemark Head to the movies at Cinemark for some buttery popcorn and sweet ice cream, enjoy a movie, and hit up the arcade afterwards. If you want to dine before you catch your flick, grab a burger at Red Robin. cinemark.com

Main Event Enjoy a night of laser tag, bowling, ice cream, billiards, shuffleboard, and gravity ropes to keep your family adventurous and on their toes. La Bella's Pizza offers pies with unlimited toppings and multiple sizing options. For dessert, try a slushy or gelato. mainevent.com

Know of more Katy fun zones? Email us! [email protected]

Everyone knows Katy is a great place for kids, and that is especially true when it comes to planning a fabulous birthday party for your Katy cutie. Make party planning a family affair by involving the birthday boy or girl in the process, allowing them to pick a theme, a party game, or a special snack to serve. We’ve compiled a list of a few great venues in the Katy area to help you find the perfect party place for your child.

AMF West Houston Bowl 19936 Saums Rd. 281-578-9292 amf.com

Chuck E. Cheese 2002 Gulfmont Dr. 281-644-4950 chuckecheese.com

Dewberry Farm FM 362 and Morrison Rd. Brookshire 866-908-3276 dewberryfarm.com

Houston Fun Plex 13700 Beechnut St. Houston 281-530-7777 houstonfunplex.com

Inflatable Katy 2482 S. Mason Rd. 281-574-3033 inflatablekaty.com

Jump Street 5000 Katy Mills Cir. 281-347-3911 gotjump.com/katy

The Little Gym of Katy 23010A Highland Knolls 281-347-1400 tlgkatytx.com

Main Event Entertainment 24401 Katy Fwy. 281-394-4800 mainevent.com/locations/katy-tx

Mason Road Skate Center 535 Applewhite Dr. 281-392-9555 masonroadskatecenter.com

Multiplicity 1306 Ave. A 832-437-2442 multiplicity.co

Pigtails & Crewcuts 5131 S. Fry Rd., #500 281-492-6061 pigtailsandcrewcuts.com/katy

Pump it Up 923 S. Mason Rd. 281-829-5777

Smith Ranch 25440 Beckendorff Rd. 281-371-3318 smithranchkaty.com

Snip-Its 6501 S. Fry Rd., #200 281-574-1555 snipits.com

Splatterhouse Paintball 1004 FM 359 S. Brookshire 713-515-1238 splatterhousepaintball.com

The Storybook Cottage 5814 First St. 281-574-5707 thestorybookcottage.com

Texas One Volleyball 6400 block of FM 723 Richmond 281-232-5693 texasonevolleyball.org

Tiger-Rock Martial Arts of Katy 625 S. Mason Rd. 281-829-9300 katytkd.com

Tilt Studio 5000 Katy Mills Circle 281-644-2340 tiltstudio.com

Times Square Entertainment 402 W. Grand Pkwy. 281-395-8550 timessquaretx.com

Know another birthday party place? Email us! [email protected]

Donned in tiaras and cowboy boots, the Katy Cowgirls celebrate over 70 years of tradition

Written by Ella Hearrean | Photography courtesy of Katy Cowgirls

Katy, TX News – Carla Fisher was in fifth grade when she watched the Katy Cowgirls perform for the first time and told her parents, "I want to do that." Eight years later, as a senior line captain of the mounted drill team, the Katy High School junior says, "I’ve learned leadership skills, gained friendships, and I feel proud carrying the flag during parades and performances."

Representing the Community This year, the organization of Katy ISD student horse-riding performers marks over 70 years of representing their hometown and school district at community events. Its 27 riders, whose ages range from 8 to 17 years, don their trademark tiaras and hats and present choreographed patterns at events like the Katy Rice Harvest Festival and Special Children's Day. The culmination of their hard work is the annual presentation of the flags at the Katy Livestock Show and Rodeo.

Anita Mancini, director of the Katy Cowgirls for the past 11 years, attributes the success of the group to the diligence of its members. "These girls are the cream of the crop. Most are in advanced academic classes and are involved in other school and social activities, but they are dedicated to their horses and to each other. They are learning to be leaders."

Working as a Team The Katy Cowgirls accept girls of all skill levels, which Mancini says distinguishes the group from other team sports. "We want them to simply be able to walk, trot, and lope a horse with a flag in hand. We’ll take on someone with basic skills and a horse."

The differences in abilities help the girls work as a team. "Their talents are different. Without each person's position, the performance isn't right," says Mancini. Nine-year-old rider Faith Mancini agrees. "When I’m scared of holding the flag or steering the horse, the older girls make me feel comfortable and confident," she says.

Their challenges strengthen the team as well. "The horses are spooked by the flags at first, so we have to teach them," says Mancini. "They are also large animals that will misbehave. The girls learn to discipline them with respect." Fisher adds that working closely with friends can sometimes be difficult. "Sometimes we have arguments and have to work them out, but Miss Anita always helps us. These girls are my best friends. They are like family."

The team relies on the support of others, including five cowhands who prepare horses for rides and watch for the girls’ safety. "These are strong, capable young men who are always available," says Mancini. She adds that parents are critical to the group's success. "They show support by driving the girls and helping them reach their goals. Their commitment is awesome."

Spreading the Love Their camaraderie is evident in fun group traditions such as smashing cupcakes in birthday girls’ faces and going on annual alumni trail rides. It is also evident in their ability to come together to meet goals, such as exceeding their goal to support the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. Mancini says, "Their horse rides, bake sale, and collections from family and friends raised over $7,000. I was so proud of them."

Mancini's close relationships with her current riders, as well as her 400 alumni riders, are reflected in their nicknames for her: "Miss A," "Barn Mama," even "Nana" by her granddaughter Faith – one of the youngest on the team. "I get to know each girl and what is going on with her so I can help her reach her goals," she says. "They are such a blessing in the way they love me back."

Ushering a New Season The team is gearing up for its annual membership tryouts at the Katy ISD rodeo arena, where newcomers are judged on basic skills and where veteran members interview for spots as captain. Mancini is confident the new season will hold wonderful adventures. She shares, "I just can't say enough about these girls. I can't do them justice." KM

ELLA HEARREAN is a Katy-area writer and editor.

Lena and David Carlberg share how they manage their daily routine with 10 children

Written by Holly Leger | Photography by Sara Isola

Katy, TX News – "Alyssa, Annie, Aidan, Alec, Andrew, Adam, Ashton, Abigail, Addison, Adrian…" No you’re not listening to a nursery rhyme; that is breakfast roll call at the Carlberg home. Lena Carlberg still finds it hard to believe sometimes. "I didn't plan it that way," she laughs. "I wasn't ever going to have 10 kids." She and her husband, David, are proud parents of six boys and four girls, ranging in age from 1 to 16 years old.

Planning A Family David and Lena met in 1996 while working at the Olive Garden. A couple of years later, they began dating. Soon both wanted a family, but had slightly opposing views on the matter. Lena's mother came from a family of seven. Lena and her two brothers have fond memories of being surrounded by their cousins at family gatherings. "I remember crying and begging my mom to have more [kids]," Lena says.

David on the other hand, grew up with the large family Lena wanted so badly. He was the youngest of eight, and had different dreams about starting a family of his own. "I wanted twins – a boy and a girl, and then be done," David laughs. However, before either of them compromised on the matter, they got a surprise and learned they were pregnant with a baby girl. In the following 15 years, Lena and David added nine more children to their family. "There's no explanation," Lena says. "They just kept coming, and we didn't want to stop – until now. We are officially done," she adds, looking at 1-year-old Adrian in her arms.

Helping Hands

With six children attending three different schools and four children staying at home each day, the Carlbergs follow a tight schedule. Lena and David expect the kids to help along the way. For instance, while Lena takes 13-year-old Annie, who has cerebral palsy, to therapy after school, Alyssa, 16 and Aidan, 11 watch over their younger siblings at home. Alyssa even helps them with their homework. Lena says sometimes they perform tasks like these without even being told to. "They’re actually amazing at helping each other," she says. And of course, mom and dad put in their share of work – with Lena doing about three loads of laundry a day, and David cooking dinner each night after he returns from work at Inchcape Shipping Services.

The Wolf Pack Another challenge Lena faces are her sons’ seemingly endless games of wrestling. "I don't know how to stop that," she laughs, as David reassures her that it's probably a universal problem with boys. These four brothers are what Lena likes to call, "the wolf pack," because they are such close pals.

According to Lena, Ashton, age 4, was recently lost to the wolf pack, too. How did she know? "All the sudden, he says, ‘I don't like Barney!’" But the wolf packs does more than wrestle and disown Barney. They also take good care of their sister, Annie. Lena says the boys constantly make sure Annie has everything she needs, whether it is a missing piece to a game she's playing, or a glass of water. "I can hear them talking to her," Lena shares. "They listen really intently."

Hectic But Happy It is love like that which makes their full house something special. The mess and noise may sometimes be amplified, but then again, so are the holidays and the family fun – like the 12 birthdays they get to celebrate each year. "There's never a dull moment," David says. "There's always something going on." From being the little girl who once longed for more siblings, to becoming the mother of 10 children, Lena couldn't be happier with her lot of straight A's. "My favorite thing is without a doubt all the love, all the hugs, and all the laughter," she says. "I guess you can say I’m addicted to kids – especially mine." KM

HOLLY LEGER loves hearing her father's stories about growing up as one of 10 in the Kitten family.

Nine-year-old Kaylee Fowler becomes an ambassador for her spectrum mates by raising over $65,000 for Autism Speaks

Written by Clare Jensen | Photography by Lara Massey

Katy, TX News – Kaylee Fowler calls herself a bookworm, ballerina, scientist, inventor, chef, comedian, and child of the Lord. For the second year in a row, she was the top fundraiser for the Autism Speaks walk in Houston raising over $65,000 in 2013. Her team, God's Little Lambs, seeks to help local families in need by raising autism awareness. Kaylee's fundraising efforts were inspired by a desire to increase understanding for her "spectrum mates" – because she has autism as well.

Autism Spectrum Autism is often characterized by repetitive behavior, difficulty with communication, and challenges in social interactions. Within the spectrum of autism, Kaylee has Asperger's Syndrome, which is a highly functioning form of autism.

One of her special qualities is that she focuses on specific interests so intensely that she learns expert level details before continuing to another topic. For example, at the age of 3, she became consumed with maps, and methodically proceeded to learn everything she could about geography, from continents to capitals. Once she learns something, it is imprinted in her memory for an extended period of time, often verbatim from her original understanding. Kaylee's extensive vocabulary has allowed her to read full-length novels since the age of 4 or 5.

Fundraising for Love Her fundraising efforts were fueled at the age of 5 with the gift of Easter baskets to children at Healthbridge Children's Hospital in Houston. In addition to raising the money through crayon-colored fliers and a driveway juice stand, Kaylee also carefully selected gifts for each child's basket. Upon delivery, the receptionist suggested that Kaylee give the children their baskets personally. Kaylee declined saying, "No, thank you. It's not about me. It's about God's love. Please, just let them know it's from one of God's little lambs to another."

The donation of these Easter baskets provided Kaylee with the name for her Autism Speaks team: God's Little Lambs. Autism Speaks is a nationwide organization that dedicates itself to helping those with autism, from raising awareness to raising money. For the 2013 Autism Speaks walk, Kaylee set her goal at $50,000. Through a church carnival and benefit concert, she was able to exceed that goal by over $15,000.

The Fowlers are also in the process of making God's Little Lambs into a non-profit organization. "Kaylee wants to fundraise as much as she can now for the researchers, so by the time she's old enough to become a geneticist, they’ll have the pieces ready so she can help solve the puzzle," says Kaylee's mom Lexy.

Different Perspectives Kaylee's actions, however, are not only centered around raising funds, but also to increase understanding for spectrum mates with more severe forms of autism. Kaylee says, "I wouldn't want people to ignore me if I needed help just because it looked complicated." Lexy adds that her daughter "has always accepted that, embraced it, and tried to learn effective communication with others."

John Fowler encourages people to educate themselves. "Kaylee and her spectrum mates may communicate differently or not at all in some cases, but they are still children of God," he shares. Developing understanding and cultivating natural interactions are the simplest and best gifts to Kaylee and those diagnosed with autism.

Once on a family outing, the Fowlers saw a shirt that read "Asperger's: it's not a glitch, it's a whole different operating system."

The differences of her operating system have inspired her with proactive eagerness to help God's other little lambs. John says, "The beauty and innocence of the world that Kaylee sees and shares with everyone, at every corner, is nothing short of amazing. She has taught me that there is no excuse for not giving life everything you have, every moment of every day." KM

CLARE JENSEN is a junior at Rice University majoring in English and history. She calls Katy her home and loves the community.

Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Cinco Ranch Branch Library

Written by Kirsten Cornell | Photography by Adventure Photo and Design

The Katy community has always held the importance of education and literacy in high esteem. Fort Bend County Precinct 3 Commissioner Andy Meyers is no exception. "Literacy helps develop critical life skills," says Meyers. "It expands life experiences, allows our youth to explore other cultures and worlds, learn about our history and how our nation was founded, exposes them to the great thinkers throughout history, and provides them adventure and excitement."

Partnering with Katy Contemporary Arts Museum, Katy Magazine, LaCenterra, The Sweet Boutique, and Fort Bend County libraries, Meyers created the Literary and Fine Arts Festival and Parade, colliding with the 10th anniversary of Cinco Ranch Branch Library. "Promoting literacy and fine arts is essential to enjoying life to the fullest," he says.

Art and Composition Competition Students in who attend schools in precinct 3 are able to enter both art and literary competitions. Winners for the art show, which serves students kindergarten through 12the grade, will be announced for selections such as best in show, judges’ choice, and individual place ribbons. In addition, best in show winners will also receive a monetary award of $500. "An event such as this helps bring the community together to enjoy and officially recognize our talented young people," says Meyers.

Literary composition contestants, kindergarten through eighth grade, will have the opportunity to write about what Cinco Ranch Branch Library has meant to them or a favorite memory. "We are creative beings," explains Meyers. "As such, participating in fine arts allows us to exercise our own creativity and enjoy the creativity of others."

A Parade of Characters Kindergartners through third-grade students from any Katy ISD school can participate in the character parade on April 4. "Little ones will have so much fun dressing up as their favorite book character and marching in a parade through LaCenterra," says Lori Ann Belin, community relations manager for Commissioner Meyer's office. A first-place trophy and second- and third-place ribbons will be awarded for cutest characters.

"My favorite book as a kid was The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain," recalls Meyers. "Probably because I identified with Huckleberry, an adventurous, mischievous young boy who took life as it came to him and marveled at the wonders and people he encountered."

The character parade will end at the festival where patrons will find games, a photo booth, fire trucks, a multitude of vendor booths, sweet treats, and door prizes that will be given throughout the event.

Start planning your costume now, and join the fun while supporting Katy ISD students. "We have such extraordinarily talented youth," says Meyers. "We need to encourage [them] to continue developing their creative skills." KM

KIRSTEN CORNELL is the lead associate editor of Katy Magazine. Her favorite childhood book character was the unpredictable, Amelia Bedelia.

For more info, contact 281-238-1400

Rescuing, rehabilitating, and renewing hope for golden retrievers

Written by Kirsten Cornell | Photography by Juliana Evans

Katy, Texas News – Shari Anderson had always loved dogs, and she found herself wanting a golden retriever puppy. Happily, she answered an ad in the newspaper claiming to have several of the family-friendly breed available. When she arrived at the destination, she was horrified to find several golden and Labrador retrievers being kept in desolate conditions in an unventilated tin barn. "I purchased my puppy and left as quickly as I could, but could not stop thinking about the dogs left behind," Anderson recalls.

Looking for help to save these poor animals, Anderson discovered that there was no organization dedicated to retrievers in Houston or the surrounding areas. Securing the assistance of the Golden Retriever Club of Houston and rescue groups out of Austin, she was able to see all of the puppy mill residents saved. Due to poor care and neglect, many of the dogs, including Anderson's puppy Comet, experienced severe health issues. What looked like the end of the story for these pups was ultimately the inspiration for Golden Beginnings Golden Retriever Rescue (GBGRR).

Fostering Love This non-profit, all-volunteer organization rescues an average of 150 to 250 golden retrievers a year from a variety of situations including animal shelters, strays, owner surrenders, veterinarians, boarding facilities, and puppy mill closures. "It can be as simple as picking up a golden at one of the local shelters, or it can take several days to plan transport from an outlying area," explains Cil Henson, the current president of GBGRR. Whichever way rescues come into their care, the group's top priority is to connect with a veterinarian, run tests, and plan care.

Some dogs enter the program with behavior issues or health complications such as emaciation, mange, heartworms, or injuries. "Some of our dogs from puppy mill situations are so traumatized and withdrawn, that it can take years for them to acclimate to life outside of a cage and to learn to bond with and trust a human," says Henson sadly.

This is when GBGRR's foster homes become vitally important. Each rescue is placed with a foster family that works with them to correct behavior, acquire a clean bill of health, and help them build up a foundation of love and trust. Foster homes observe the dogs on a daily basis evaluating their character, temperament, energy level, and reactions to different situations. This input is taken into consideration when placing rescues in forever homes. "In many cases, the results of this personal attention are remarkable," explains Henson. "It is very rewarding to see the change in these dogs and to watch them blossom with the love and care showered on them by our foster homes."

A Christmas Rescue Dickens’ story began on a cold Christmas Eve last year. GBGRR volunteers found him wandering the streets alone and rushed him to a local vet, where he was diagnosed with severe heart failure, respiratory distress, and a fluid-filled abdomen. His heart was infested so badly with heartworms, the doctor considered a risky surgical procedure in an attempt to save his life. "We thought we were going to lose him that night," says Mike Patterson, current board member and leader of the adoption team. "We were astounded that he was still with us on Christmas morning."

The decision was made to put Dickens on four different medications to manage the heart failure, but another problem arose: he refused to eat. "He turned up his nose at cream cheese, peanut butter, soft dog food, and even Black Forest ham. The process took us close to two hours every day," recalls Patterson. They experienced a breakthrough when a foster parent developed a meatloaf especially for him.

This Christmas will hold entirely different memories for Dickens. Now full of energy and heartworm-free, he was adopted by his foster family. "He is a sweet soul who readily welcomes new fosters into his home," laughs Patterson. "And he never turns down a meal." Patterson is keenly aware that Dickens’ life would have been lost if GBGRR had not been there to give him a second chance.

Miracle of Mercy When GBGRR received the call from a Houston shelter telling them they had a stray with an eye injury, they were completely caught off-guard by what they discovered. She was emaciated, infested with heartworms, had broken teeth, an infected eye socket with only the optic nerve left, and had scratched herself raw from skin infections. "We thought we would have to carry her, but despite her horrible physical condition, she walked to the car and pulled herself into the backseat without a whimper," Patterson says. "We marveled at this stoic little dog's strength and spirit."

Immediate surgery was required to prevent the infection from traveling to her brain. Thankfully the surgery was successful, and with frequent baths and good nutrition, Mercy healed from her infections and heartworms. In five short months of foster care, she was ready for her new home. When Amarillo resident Dixie saw Mercy on the GBGRR website, she knew they were meant for each other. "I needed Mercy as much as she needed me," says Dixie.

"It didn't matter that she was ‘special needs;’ there was something in her gaze that reached out to me." A volunteer made the 1,200-mile round trip to unite Mercy with her new family. When Dixie tearfully hugged Mercy as though they were long-lost friends, the journey proved wellworth their efforts.

Priceless Joy With their affectionate personalities and unique spirit, golden retrievers are very people-oriented and make great companions for families. Those interested in adopting or fostering through GBGRR are encouraged to fill out an application online to begin the process.

While rescue work is difficult, the rewards are priceless. "We experience such joy when dogs who were unloved in their prior lives meet their new families where you know they will be cherished," says Patterson. "Sometimes people can make miracles happen." KM

KIRSTEN CORNELL is the lead associate editor at Katy Magazine and a softie for animal rescues. She has filled out an application to volunteer at Golden Beginnings Golden Retriever Rescue.

Dedicated Cinco Ranch Junior High teacher Suzette Steward is named Teacher of the Year on Live with Kelly and Michael

Written by Susan Perini | Select photography by Melissa Crowder

Katy, Texas News – When Lisa Clements nominated Suzette Steward for the National Teacher of the Year Award from the daytime talk show Live with Kelly and Michael, she wrote, "You just have to meet her. [Suzette] has more energy, passion, and love for kids than you will find in any other human being."

Clements should know. She is the mom of one of the many children whose lives have been impacted by Steward's passion and dedication during her years teaching in Katy ISD.

More Than a Teacher "I’m just a teacher," shrugs Steward in the video shown on Live with Kelly and Michael. "I go to work to do what I need to do, so my kids can be better individuals later on in life."

But anyone who knows Steward, knows she's more than "just" a teacher. Steward, who grew up in Katy, was inspired early in life to work with people with special needs. After earning her degree in recreational therapy, she began working in Katy ISD in 2004 at Exley Elementary. When her students graduated to junior high, she moved with them and began teaching the Junior Child Autism Program (JCAP) at Cinco Ranch Junior High (CRJH). Simultaneously, Steward began working tirelessly with the Special Olympics program, as well as starting two camp programs of her own – Camp Journey and Camp Rocks – both of which offer a variety of activities for children with autism.

Team Suzette After Clements submitted her letter nominating Steward for the National Teacher of the Year award, Steward, who was unaware of the nomination, easily slid into the top 12.

CRJH principal Elizabeth Kuylen was thrilled when she received a call from the show's producers telling her that Steward was a finalist. "She deserves to have this recognition," Kuylen says. "With Suzette, what you see is what you get. She really does have that much energy, enthusiasm, and passion."

When 12 finalists were narrowed down to five, Steward flew to New York to appear on Live with Kelly and Michael. Friends and co-workers donned "Team Suzette" shirts and rallied to get people to vote for her – which wasn't difficult. Everyone who knows Steward is touched by her commitment to students and her genuine enthusiasm for teaching.

Beyond the Classroom Steward's work is not simply confined to the classroom. Every weekday, Steward runs an after-school exercise program where her students can interact with the community while burning off some excess energy. She opens her home to her students on Friday nights, Saturdays, and even Sundays to offer "weekend respite" for parents. Instead of summer vacation, Steward spearheads Camp Journey, 11 weeklong day camps for kids with special needs. Camp Rocks takes place on weekends and holidays throughout the year. Remarking on Steward's level of dedication, Kuylen quips, "As far as I know, she doesn't sleep." Steward always runs an after-school care program to provide her students with much-needed physical activity.

"She really is amazing," says Renee Thomas, a fellow Katy ISD teacher whose son Garrett has reaped the benefits of Steward's work with the Special Olympics, Camp Journey, and Camp Rocks. "She has a passion for children. Garrett, even with his limited verbal skills, actually asks to go to Camp Rocks!"

The Big Win On May 7, 2013, Kuylen received the news that Steward was the winner. She arranged for Steward's husband, family, friends, students, and co-workers to surround Steward outside the front of the school as she heard the exciting news. Steward was overwhelmed. "It's such an honor," she says. "I feel like it shines a light on our program, the staff, the kids, and their parents. It isn't just my award; it's for us all."

Steward won a new car from Ford, as well as a much deserved Tahitian vacation – which she has yet to take. CRJH was awarded $25,000 and five Mobi Learners, which allow multiple students to interact with lesson content simultaneously, creating a more collaborative classroom. With the award money, Kuylen has also purchased additional technology items for the school including 25 iPads, three document cameras, projectors, a new set of graphing calculators, clickers, and some equipment for the art department.

Kuylen hopes the attention brought to their JCAP program will produce more community awareness of Katy students with special needs as well as more support for programs like Steward's that meet their needs.

Living the Dream Steward plans to continue working with special needs students. "Every day, I get to help these kids reach new goals and master things they’ve never imagined doing," she says. "I am living my dream."

In the future, Steward hopes to become more active with Home and Community-based Services, a support group for families of people with disabilities which provides vocational training and group homes. She would like to have her own special needs community someday. In the meantime, she will continue to do what she does best: love, inspire, and teach. KM

SUSAN PERINI lives in Katy with her husband and three children, one of whom has autism.

Morton Ranch student Caraline Miller survived brain cancer and child abuse, but chooses to be victorious, not a victim

Written by Zilah Miller | Select photography by Juliana Evans

Katy, Texas News – After moving from Katy to Chicago in 1998, my 2-year-old daughter Caraline and I encountered more than a change in climate. Six months after settling into our new home, I knew something was amiss. My jolly, active little toddler began to sleep 12 to 18 hours a day. When awake, nothing she ate stayed down.

Misdiagnosis Mix Up The first occurrence landed us in the emergency room with a diagnosis of carbon monoxide poisoning. After two days, we were back at the ER with Caraline complaining that her neck hurt. A spinal tap revealed no meningitis, and this time, the doctor diagnosed her with stomach flu. Another two days passed, and I took her to our primary care doctor. I told him that Caraline rode her wheeled horse down the staircase in December, tumbling all the way down, and asked if the neck pain and vomiting could be related to the fall. Our doctor ordered a CT scan.

We Have a Problem When the results of the scan finally came in, the doctor flew across the waiting room and came to his knees in front of Caraline and me. He said, "Peanut, we have a problem."

As I sat in that dark room with a wall filled with scans of Caraline's brain and tears rolling down my face, the doctor told me there was a mass the size of two golf balls in her little head. Caraline placed her small hands on either side of my face and told me, "Don't cry, mommy. I will be okay." This beautiful little girl was comforting me. Even as a toddler, Caraline had the ability to comfort others.

Twenty-four hours later, she had lost her ability to speak and all her motor skills were gone. My brother John sat in the chair in ICU as I lay holding Caraline. My mother, who never flies, flew from Mississippi to Illinois, and my sister Laura arrived from New York. The next morning, Caraline had surgery to remove the tumor. It was malignant and ended up being larger than expected. Dr. Ruge, her brain surgeon, was able to completely remove it, but said she could have potential issues after the surgery.

Guardian Angels We believe in the power of prayer. Caraline's body was able to recover, the shunt was removed, and she was up and eating in a day. The first thing she asked for was Chicken McNuggets. She told us about all the people in her ICU room, and we know it was the angels watching over her because only two people were allowed in her room at one time.

Two weeks after the surgery, we went home. Over the next two months, Caraline had chemo; then, she traveled to St. Jude's Children's Hospital in Tennessee for seven weeks of radiation. Through it all, she continued to recover – even thrive. We expected complications from the chemo and radiation: partial blindness, drop foot, hearing loss, lack of motor skills. None of these complications occurred. Caraline was diagnosed with short-term memory loss in second grade, but she takes medication that helps with this issue.

A Badge of Courage Cancer is only part of Caraline's story. In 2000, Caraline was deliberately burned, over 40% of her body, with boiling water and oil by her biological father while she was in his care. The third-degree burns required daily skin treatments, removal of skin, and skin grafts at Shriner's Burn Unit in Galveston. She carries the scars today, calling them her badge of courage. "I was given the option to attempt a surgery and have the burn scars on my thighs removed," Caraline says. "I chose not to have the surgery because my burns make me who I am today. Without my past, what is the future?"

You can only imagine the heartache we went through to have just come through cancer only to have her hurt like this. The incident occurred less than one year after she completed radiation. But Caraline won't let herself be a victim. Today, she is a lifeguard in the summer and confidently wears shorts and swimsuits. "I don't really have a feeling for the way that I look," she says. "I know that I want to be happy and not sad or mad about life every day." When Caraline shared her story with the students at the Krause Center, she reminded them that everyone's life has stumbling blocks, but we all have the choice in how we move forward after bad things.

New Blessings After the burning incident, God provided a new dad for Caraline in the form of my sweet husband, Michael Miller. Michael officially adopted Caraline in July 2002, before she began kindergarten, and has been supportive in every way possible.

Today, Michael uses Caraline's story to encourage his football players to find strength through adversity. Caraline's story has been shared with Fellowships of Christian Athletes, Sunday schools, friends, colleagues, and others who are going through health-related issues. In fourth grade, Caraline dreamed that she was in an auditorium encouraging the audience to be survivors and not victims. This dream is what she aspires to do with her life – to motivate people to come through adversity and to influence those who don't know how to move forward in life. "Things happen to people of all ages," she says. "I am here for anyone who wants to listen."

Beyond the Scars Now, as a student at Morton Ranch High School, Caraline has a long list of accomplishments that tell a story far beyond her scars: National Junior Honor Society member; recipient of the Panther Spirit Award in sixth, seventh, and eighth grades; recognized as Katy Elks Outstanding Eighth Grade Student; National Charity League member; awarded 2013 Outstanding Newspaper Reporter; sports editor for the Maverick Star Newspaper; ninth grade volleyball team manager; and ninth grade tennis team, just to name a few. In March 2014, Caraline will celebrate 15 years of being a cancer survivor.

Caraline walks with her scars every day – physically and mentally. Cancer can strike anyone; it has no feelings or preference. But the fact that another person could harm a child the way Caraline was harmed is impossible to understand. Still, in our home, we love the song called "Blessings" by Laura Story that says, "What if your blessings come through raindrops?"

A Bright Future Through all her adversities and successes, we give thanks. I know that Caraline will make a difference to the people she meets and the ones who hear her story – she already has. At our house, we say, "Make a choice: be a victim or be a survivor. One will have you miss out on the joys of life, and the other will open doors to exciting adventures." KM

We would like to thank Zilah and Caraline Miller for sharing their amazing story with us. Do you have an inspirational story to share? Email [email protected].

Katy's legacy of strong churches continues today through the unity and service of local congregations

Written by Meagan Clanahan and Susanna Donald | Select photography by Nicole Prosser

Katy, Texas News – In Katy's earliest days, dozens of different cultures and religious heritages influenced the budding community. When a group of settlers led the charge to put aside religious differences in the name of Christian unity in 1898, Quakers, Baptists, Presbyterians, Apostolics, Methodists, and others came together to form the Union Sunday School. The Methodist Episcopal Church (now First United Methodist Church Katy) and Zion Baptist Church (now First Baptist Church) were also formed that year, and Katy's first church building opened in 1904. From those humble beginnings, Katy's legacy as "a city of churches" was born.

What's in a Name? While no one knows who first coined the phrase "a city of churches," the sign welcoming residents and visitors into town in the 1950s displayed the epithet. As people continued to migrate west of Houston, more and more churches established themselves in Katy as well.

"Early on, Katy's reputation as a city of churches was less about the number of places to worship and more about the fact that almost everyone who lived here was so actively involved in church life," says Carol Adams, a Katy Heritage Society board member. "In fact, church membership was so important that a list of the members who attended each church were enclosed in a time capsule in 1929 and placed in the cornerstone of the new school building," Adams explains. The list is currently on display at Katy Heritage Park.

Today, with more than 500 churches registered in the Katy area, the "city of churches" title is as much about the number of churches as it is about the importance of church to many Katyites. Katy offers residents and visitors alike a wide variety of churches to choose from: small, large, mediumsized, contemporary, traditional, contemplative, brand-new, established, family-oriented, non-denominational, formal, causal, Protestant, Catholic, and everything in between. Large churches like Second Baptist and Grace Fellowship United Methodist Church have started new churches and campuses to extend their reach into new, growing areas of Katy. Twenty-six local churches meet in various Katy ISD schools on Sunday mornings, while others meet in venues like movie theaters and other rented spaces.

Katy Churches Today While Katy's population boom has contributed to the growth of new churches and the attendance spike for established churches, people are also seeking true connections with others. "In the mobility of our society, we sometimes hold people at arm's length," says Doyle Lowry, executive pastor of Kingsland Baptist Church. "But people want relationships that are real and faith that is real, not just an organization or fancy program."

Everyone is searching, says Lowry. "People want to know, ‘What is the meaning of this life?’ Churches have grown because of a need for us to connect with others looking for that same purpose."

While helping people discover purpose and meaning, Katy churches have also had to adjust to the fast-moving pace of Katy society. Many of Katy's newest churches are mobile churches, meeting in rented facilities closest to the rapidly growing neighborhoods in the area. Multiple worship times, shortened services, and casual dress codes are all mainstays of many Katy churches today. However, according to Mike McGown, pastor of Parkway Fellowship, "It's not a watering down of the gospel. We are just putting it in terms that everyone can understand. We strive to make God's message practical. What you hear on Sunday can be put into practice Monday morning."

Meaningful Connections As Katy churches have expanded, pastors continue to discover methods to build meaningful connections. Parkway Fellowship believes small groups, typically gatherings of six to 12 people who meet in homes during the week, are the most important method for this growth. "Small groups are where you get into the nitty gritty and deal with real issues, all in a caring environment," say McGown. Different Katy churches offer variations on small groups, from Sunday school classes and Bible studies to ministry teams and discipleship courses.

Besides offering places for coming to know Christ and developing significant relationships, many Katy churches also create and cultivate care ministries. "These ministries show people that God's love for them is real, no matter the circumstances," says Mitch Peairson, executive pastor at Grace Fellowship UMC. "People still face real problems, troubles, and marriage struggles – we are just as prone in Katy as anywhere else," he says.

Reaching Out Many Katy churches go beyond the walls of their buildings and reach out through local service projects, international mission trips, outreach activities, and work weekends. Some churches, like Grace Fellowship UMC and Kingsland Baptist, close their doors one Sunday each year and send their congregations out into Katy to work with the less fortunate and the overlooked. Throughout the year, Katy churches deploy thousands to work on projects like home repair, nursing home visits, playground construction, and food pantry assistance. Compassion Katy, headquartered at The Fellowship at Cinco Ranch, partners with over 20 local churches to provide hours of donated time and thousands of dollars in materials during their biannual Katy ServeFests.

Katy churches don't stop with local missions, though. Kingsland Baptist alone logged 15 international mission trips in 2012, spanning the globe from India and Cambodia to El Salvador and Nicaragua. Large churches and small churches alike mobilize their congregations to reach out, sending teams of youth and adults to serve in countries around the world.

Many Churches, One Mission When the early settlers came together back in 1898 to form the Union Sunday School, they couldn't know how their example would set the tone for what was to come. Today, Katy carries on its "city of churches" nickname through the unity among the local churches and especially the pastors.

For more than 17 years, pastors from every denomination across Katy meet every Wednesday at noon to pray for each other's churches, congregations, and the city as a whole. Representatives from the largest church to the smallest, come together in unity for the sake of the mission of churches. Katy pastors also meet each year to pray for Katy schools and teachers in front of the Katy ISD administration building. For the past three years, they have also organized the National Day of Prayer, where thousands of Katyites gather in the Katy Merrell Center to pray for the community and nation. Jim Leggett, senior pastor of Grace Fellowship UMC, says, "I think God honors it when churches come together in unity." In that case, Katy is blessed indeed. KM

MEAGAN CLANAHAN is a Katy wife and mother who is blessed to live in this "city of churches."

SUSANNA DONALD is an editorial assistant at Katy Magazine who loves learning about the history and significance of local churches.

Encouragement from local Katy area experts for having a successful, healthy weight loss journey

Written by Kirsten Cornell | Photos property of Katy Magazine

Katy, Texas News – In the midst of a culture obsessed with weight and physical attractiveness, it's no wonder there's a growing trend of fad diets and infomercials showcasing any number of do-it-at-home workout programs and exercise equipment. From the cabbage soup or lemonade diet to more founded routines such as Paleolithic and gluten-free, it's no surprise that more Americans than ever struggle with weight loss. Katy Magazine sat down with local experts on the subject, to find out practical ways to maintain a healthier lifestyle and incorporate fitness into your daily life.

1. Plan of Action Deciding to live a healthier lifestyle is one that involves your entire mindset. "You have to ask yourself ‘Why do I truly want to lose weight?’ The answer will give you motivation," advises Carl Comeaux, owner of Premier Personal Training. "People who are motivated take action." Create an action plan that implements new habits including a regular exercise routine and proper nutrition. "Keep it simple. Don't think about the marathon before you take your first step toward exercising on a consistent basis," adds Comeaux. Obstacles are inevitable – put strategies in place that will help you overcome them.

2. Set Goals It is important to have goals, and to stick to them. Results always take time and setting realistic fitness goals will help you attain them. "Set two goals you want to accomplish in 12 weeks," advises Comeaux. "Make sure they are goals with finish lines such as running a one-mile race or working out four days a week." Many of those with large, abstract aims such as "losing weight" often find the process more frustrating. Having a goal with a clear end will help you feel more accomplished. "You will start automatically losing weight because you have changed your routine," adds Comeaux. Celebrate your accomplishments with worthy rewards. Did you stick to your workout plan this month? Treat yourself to a massage. Lose that stubborn 20 pounds? Buy a dress in your new size. Rewards will keep you motivated to stay on course.

3. Building Good Habits "We tell clients to focus on one habit per week to become successful at it," says Comeaux. "By starting one step at a time, you will never feel like you’re starving, and you will see change." Start keeping a nutrition log. This visual reminder of what you are eating will help you maintain a healthy diet plan. "A daily food and activity journal can help you keep on track with your weight loss goals," says Danielle Steel, clinical director for Ageless Med Spa. "Weight loss isn't just calories in and calories out," explains Andy Garnett with Physicians Weight Loss Centers of Katy. "Nutrient dense plans are necessary so that you don't feel hungry. Protein supplements increase your metabolism, preserve muscle mass, and increase overall energy."

"Good habits include five servings of vegetables a day, two to three servings of fruit a day, 10 glasses of water daily, and stop eating three hours before you go to bed," says Comeaux. "If you make good decisions 90% of the time, you can afford to splurge 10% of the time."

A month-long effort will not sustain your long-term goals over the next 10 years. Formulating good habits will help you to be consistent and stick to your plan. "By exercising daily and eating lean meats, fruits, and vegetables, you will not only look and feel fantastic, you will reduce the risk of serious illnesses," says Steel.

4. Get Moving Now that you have a plan, get moving. Evaluate your schedule and goals to determine what will work best for you. "If you can only commit to four days a week, then that's what you start out with," encourages Comeaux. "Remember that your mindset needs to look at exercise as a lifestyle habit."

"In the Houston area, we do a lot of sitting as a result of long commutes, desk jobs, or staying indoors because of high temperatures," explains Garnett. "If we do not get enough activity to counterbalance calories, our bodies become fat storing machines."

If you’re new to exercise and looking for an option you enjoy, utilize online programs in the beginning. These can range in everything from light weight-lifting to cardio kickboxing. Vary your routine to keep your body guessing. Try to actively incorporate activity into your everyday life. Park in the back of the parking lot, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or take a family walk after dinner. "There are many physical activities that can be enjoyed as a family such as walking, riding bikes, skating, or swimming," suggests Steel.

5. Better Together Share your fitness goals with a friend that can help keep you accountable. "Having a diet partner, someone to encourage you, is an important tool in any weight loss journey," advises Garnett.

Surround yourself with at least five friends who work out and practice a healthy lifestyle. Being around those who are already making these life changes will encourage you to do the same.

On-the-go moms will especially find workout groups helpful. "Connect with other moms and get a babysitter two to three days a week to watch all the kids while you go work out," suggests Comeaux.

Connecting with others will not only help keep you accountable, but will make working out fun and something that you look forward to doing. "Once you start feeling good from exercise, which takes around two months, you won't be worried about your dedication anymore – the feeling will be too good to stop," laughs Comeaux.

"Take your weight loss journey one day at a time," advises Steel. "Before long, you will see great results and be on the road to healthy living." KM

KIRSTEN CORNELL is the lead associate editor for Katy Magazine and looks forward to her nightly walks with her husband and two dogs.

An inside look at Katy's newest high school, number 7

Written by Kirsten Cornell | Select photos courtesy of Obra D. Tompkins High School

Katy, Texas News – With student enrollment nearing 65,000 in Katy ISD, the need arose for a seventh comprehensive high school. General population growth is predicted to grow exponentially in west Katy, so the board selected a prime location off of Gaston Rd., amidst several master-planned communities.

Behind the Name Obra D. Tompkins Jr., formerly a principal of Mayde Creek High School, is a well-known and prestigious educator that contributed many years to Katy ISD. During his 35-year career, Tompkins served as a teacher, coach, and assistant principal before his role at Mayde Creek. He is known as an inspiring mentor who demonstrates integrity and character.

"Tompkins’ education philosophy placed an emphasis on a student-centered approach, focusing on high expectations for performance by both students and staff," explains Mark Grisdale, the campus’ principal. "The school will try to emulate these characteristics."

While the school naming committee entertained several options, Tompkins was chosen as the school's namesake by an overwhelming majority.

The Inaugural Class Tompkins is projected to open with 850 to 900 students comprised of both incoming freshmen and sophomores. "The school is hosting orientations for students so that they can meet the staff members and be introduced to the many opportunities available on campus," says Grisdale.

In addition to athletic gyms, a detached natatorium, bookroom, and fine arts area, the campus also incorporates many "green" features. "We have a retention pond that will be used to recycle water for irrigation. The buildings also utilize energy-saving lights and other amenities," Grisdale explains.

Students will have access to the high level of academic and extracurricular programs found at other award-winning Katy ISD schools. The administration also encourages students to give back to the Katy area. "Tompkins offers a community service program where students can earn service hours for their community involvement," says Grisdale.

Exceptional Experiences Katy ISD holds their schools and students to a high level of excellence. Tompkins will accept no less, and is positioned for success. According to Grisdale, their vision is simple: "To provide students with exceptional academic and extracurricular experiences that will prepare them for post-high school endeavors." KM

KIRSTEN CORNELL is the lead associate editor of Katy Magazine and is sure to become an avid fan of the Falcons.

More than 17,000 pounds of food distributed to families in need in the Katy area

Written by Kenzie Stanfield | Select photography by Marissa Hugonnett

Katy, Texas News – Once a month at a community park you will see volunteers gather with boxes and brightly colored bags. To the untrained eye it may look a little like a party, but for many in need in the community it's food distribution Saturday.

Reaching the Hungry The Eternal Food Ministry (EFM) is a faith-based, non-profit, mobile food pantry that serves a large portion of West Houston, including parts of Harris, Fort Bend, and Waller counties. According to Pastor John Taylor, evangelist and mission leader for EFM, "The primary goal is to reach the hungry and food-insecure with necessary food supplies through soliciting, collecting, and packaging of food for distribution."

Physical and Inner Hunger The beauty of their ministry is to not only provide an adequate food supply, but also to improve the wellbeing of those whom they serve through nutrition related counseling, education of available health and social services, and most importantly, to feed an inner need through the good news of Jesus Christ. Their mission is providing for the physical needs in order to meet the inner hunger.

Humble Beginnings The pantry had humble beginnings, as most food ministries do, springing from a local church on Fifth St. in Historic Katy in 2009. As head of the church's community outreach, Taylor sought to work with various groups and local organizations to expand the food distribution program to benefit those who would most need the service.

Eternal Food Ministry was incorporated as a 501(c3) in May 2010 and in less than two years, they opened their doors to their first emergency food pantry. It is able to serve those who require immediate food assistance in addition to EFM's monthly mobile food service.

Love and Serve Others The driving force behind all that EFM does is the love of God, engrained in their hearts as Christians. "We believe as a body of Christ, that our lives should be of service to others, especially the less privileged," shares Taylor. His passion and dedication to serving our community speaks to the specific calling of this ministry and their sense of commitment to tangibly love and serve others.

Meeting Needs As are most ministries and non-profits, EFM is heavily dependent on their amazing volunteers because of their various areas of service. Not only do they have the monthly mobile food distribution program and the intermittent emergency food program, they also administer a "feed the children" food program, aimed at school-age children who struggle accessing nutritious and balanced food – especially on weekends, holidays, and during the summer. In addition, EFM also runs the Eternal Food Ministry Resale Store.

Volunteer-Driven As evidenced by the tremendous amount of work that is done, volunteers are crucial to the entire mission of EFM. "They are the heart and soul of our ministry and are present in all aspects of our daily operations," says Taylor. Volunteers are on hand to help with everything from administration and managing food drives, to food packaging and distribution. They staff the warehouse and resale shop, coordinate fundraising, and even help with media and marketing.

Undoubtedly, there is always a need. But also one that can quickly be met by those willing to get involved and serve. Presently, the biggest need is acquiring a larger facility for both food storage and packaging. EFM is hopeful other community organizations will join hands to assist in the effort to help meet the constant food needs of the Katy area.

Katy Benefits The work of EFM benefits the entire Katy community and has an impact that is impossible to ignore. Taylor shares, "In all areas, we have seen people's lives being touched by the love of God and the love for one another in this community." KM

KENZIE STANFIELD loves to support both local and overseas ministries that directly impact lives. She is married to her high school sweetheart and they are expecting their fifth child.

Autistic teen, Grant Manier, transforms scrap paper into stunning works of Eco-Art

Written by Meagan Clanahan

Katy, Texas News – From magazines to wrapping paper and tissue boxes to puzzle pieces, 18-year-old Grant Manier sees more than just paper. He sees a medium that can be brought to life through hours of work fashioned into amazing collages. He is now one of the country's most exciting emerging artists with statewide accolades. Even more amazing, he's done it all with a diagnosis that most would consider a disability.

An Early Love of Paper By the age of 3, Manier (pronounced maun-yay) showed an extreme fascination with shredding paper and creating tiny little drawings. In the same breath, he was also exhibiting signs of extreme anxiety, social challenges, and an obsession with lining up toys in perfectly straight lines.

At 5 years old, he was diagnosed with Asberger's Syndrome, a form of high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Struggling academically and bullied by his peers, Manier retreated and used paper shredding as a coping technique. While some of his teachers complained that it was disruptive in the classroom, mom Julie Coy-Manier sought to channel the tearing into positive behavior. Realizing that mainstream schooling was not working for Grant, his mother decided that homeschooling was the next best option. Once at home, Julie encouraged her son to create pictures out of the recycled paper filling up their living room.

Shredding with a Purpose Much to his mom's dismay, he preferred to produce his art in front of a blaring TV. However, she soon discovered that TV was not the nuisance, it was the muse.

"He needed the noise to concentrate," she explains. "He wasn't even really paying attention to it." While she knew that Grant had artistic talents, Julie was floored when she saw the first finished piece of Eco-Art. Entitled "Sun God" and painstakingly shaped out of almost 4,000 pieces of shredded paper – 14-year-old Grant had discovered his passion.

Soon he was spending upwards of 30 hours per week on his "eco-impressionist" pieces. He follows the same method for every painting: tear, glue, shade, glaze, and repeat. "I never know how each one will turn out. I just keep going and see what comes of it," Grant says.

He finds inspiration and ideas from nature, academic subjects, his Native American heritage, and even from his friends. His "coolages," as he refers to them, have brought Grant peace and purpose. "Art is my meditation," he explains. "Sometimes I’ll go do something else, but I always come back an hour later to do more."

Discovering Confidence Seeking a school that would allow Grant to continue to develop his social skills, keep up with his academics, and allow flexibility for his art growth, the Manier's enrolled at Focus Academy in Katy.

"At the beginning when he was starting art shows, he wouldn't even look up," says Focus executive director, Jacquelyn Mulkey. "Now he is able to tell us about his art instead of just doing it. The confidence boost is amazing."

Grant echoes her sentiments. "I can relate to the kids here," he says. "Many of them have the same issues as me – so it works." The other students also look up to him according to Mulkey. "They see Grant having success because of his disability," she articulates. "Not in spite of his disability."

Creating a Future Because the class structure at Focus Academy allows him to attend classes three times a week and complete the rest of his coursework at home via computer, Grant is able to take his art to a new level. That includes participating in art shows, leading live demonstrations state-wide, and selling his pieces.

To date, he has sold four original Eco-Art pieces and has generated over $65,000 in sales of reprints, note cards, and calendars. He has also become an Autism advocate and is committed to giving back financially to multiple organizations across Houston. As the demand for his work has grown, he has even commissioned a local organization called Different Abilities to help mass produce and package his products. "Grant is an outstanding young man with a gentle soul. His incredible and imaginative art is a gift from God," says District 7 Senator Dan Patrick.

According to Grant, he's unsure what the future holds for him and prefers to live in the present, but he also feels art will always be in his life. With 85% of ASD adults unemployed, Julie sees it a little differently. She hopes that his art will be an ultimate source of income as he makes his way into adulthood.

"The greatest fear as parents of children with ASD is their future," she states. "Initially, we saw this as an outlet. As people began to impress upon me the skill level Grant was at, I realized it could be his future, too." But regardless of where it may lead, Julie has only one ultimate wish for her son, "I just want him to be happy." KM

MEAGAN CLANAHAN is a Katy freelance writer who loves telling the stories of inspirational people in our community.

KATY, Texas (KM) – They’ve survived deployments, financial devastation, cancer, the death of a child, and more. Through it all, they have leaned on one another and vowed to stay together. None of these Katy couples think their relationship is out of the ordinary, but between them they have 146 combined years of unconditional love. Written by Meagan Clanahan | Select photography by Lindsey Shelburne

ADAM AND BAILEY LANIER To Iraq and Back Adam and Bailey Lanier first became friends in junior high school and eventually became high school sweethearts. Although they temporarily separated during their college years, they remained close friends. It was during that time that Adam, a U.S. Marine, was first deployed to Iraq. "It's hard getting off the phone with someone and not knowing if and when you will talk to them again," says Bailey. "So when we talked or emailed, it was only about the good stuff."

The couple married after Adam returned in 2008, only to face another deployment – this time to Afghanistan. "We were newlyweds, and I didn't have my husband," Bailey remembers. "My dad passed away a few months before. It was tough." after a year apart, Adam returned home safely, and Bailey describes that moment as the best feeling of her life besides he birth of her son. "Just seeing him marching in formation and the excitement in the air, then being swept up in his arms, it as just amazing," says Bailey.

These days, the Laniers appreciate the little things they missed while Adam was serving our ountry. "Things like holding hands, going to Target on a Saturday, playing board games – we love all of those things because we are together," says Bailey. Their son Wyatt was born in 2012, and the Laniers are adjusting as a family of three. "We know marriage takes work, especially after kids," says Bailey. "We intentionally put our marriage first."

MICHAEL AND SHEREE JONES Through Unimaginable Loss After noticing each other in a nightclub where he was the DJ, Michael finally scored Sheree's number by telling her it was the only way he would play her requested song. They were engaged just three weeks after that. Now 32 years later, they complete each other's sentences and consider themselves best friends. "We have the utmost love, respect, and adoration for each other," says Michael. "There are not enough hours in the day to be with her."

It hasn't always been a smooth ride. After running a successful business together in the 80s, the economy tanked, along with their store and life savings. Michael worked in the transportation industry before entering college at age 40 to pursue his dream of being an engineer. Sheree supported the family as a flight attendant, and together they raised two children, Jessica and Chad. With his wife's encouragement, Michael graduated from the University of Houston with top marks at the age of 50.

Tragically, in 2009 they lost their son Chad in a devastating motorcycle accident (which was featured in Katy Magazine spring 2011). Much of their time together is now devoted to raising awareness for organ donation through donate 4 Life and Organ Donor Hall of Fame in celebration of Chad and his own life-giving donations. As it always has been, communication remains a key in their marriage. "I can tell him when I am having a ‘bad Chad day,’ and he can do the same," Sheree says. "Luckily, we never have those days at the same time, so we can truly support each other through the hard ones." Above all else, they value what they said over 32 years ago. "We are in this in sickness and health," says Michael. "Till death do us part. I just hope I go before her."

TERRY AND SUSAN SOWELL Healing Together When Susan moved to Katy at 24 years old, the last thing on her mind was finding a husband. More than anything, she was looking for a way to grow in her relationship with God after a dysfunctional and tragic childhood. That passion led her to a Sunday night Bible study at Kingsland Baptist Church – the same Bible study Terry was attending for almost the same reasons. After a few casual encounters, they both knew God brought them together.

The first year was rocky. "I didn't have the first clue how to be a wife," Susan says. "I was still healing from my previous hurts and I had to get to a place where I knew my value was in God. I spent that first year in therapy," she explains. Terry could have just walked away, but he was so committed to the marriage – so good to me." Together they have spent the last 23 years not only working to break the generational cycle of darkness and dysfunction they both experienced, but also ministering to and mentoring other couples. "We tell them if God rescued us, he can rescue anybody," she says. "We both had so much brokenness."

Terry and Susan find joy in the everyday things, whether it's two-stepping around their living room late at night, fishing together, or going for a walk. "We truly are each other's best friends and we have a great romantic relationship," says Susan. "He thinks I am beautiful and adores me, and I adore him. He is the man God used to show me the love of Christ."

DIRK AND KATHY SMIT Through Sickness and Health Dirk and Kathy Smit recently commemorated 40 years of marriage. They’ve come a long way from their college days, when Dirk first caught Kathy's attention by pouring a bucket of cold water over her head. Early years of marriage found them living in a miner's shack on a dairy farm, and since then they’ve lived in 15 other places while raising four children.

Dirk recalls thinking early on, "We’re married, so magically everything will just work out." As he matured, something his grandpa said finally made sense to him: "Marriage is 100/100, not 50/50." Kathy also remembers her "ah-hah" moment. "I finally came to the realization that Dirk couldn't be my god to make me happy. I had to find my own worth in God first." This change in perspective helped smooth the path as they faced two frightening cancer diagnoses: Kathy at 38 with colon cancer and Dirk in 2006 with two different forms of NonHodgkin's Lymphoma. While Kathy's cancer has never returned, Dirk continues his battle. He successfully underwent chemotherapy in 2007 and 2008, but still requires frequent check-ups and may require more chemo in the future. "I couldn't have gotten through it or come this far without Kathy," he states. "She comforted me. She was my advocate."

The Smits have learned that life is a precious gift. "We want to make it more fun, have more joy, and deepen our bond with each other and with God," Kathy says. Dirk agrees, "We know that God gives you the grace to get through whatever season," he says. "True peace comes from grabbing that grace." It also comes from grabbing his wife's hand as they gaze adoringly at each other, just like newlyweds, only 40 years later.

RON AND LINDA RICHARDS Beating the Odds Thirty-six years ago, not many would have predicted Ron and Linda Richards would have made it this far. Married at 16, they have defied probability and have found immeasurable joy in their union. However, their life together has not been without tragedy. When their daughter Chrysta was 2 years old and Linda was eight-and-a-half months pregnant, the couple was in a terrible car accident. Ron suffered serious injuries, but the most heartbreaking loss was that of their unborn son. Another miscarriage followed. They finally welcomed their son Erik in 1991.

Through those dark times and the years that followed, Linda says, "We’ve always been able to talk about everything. Ron is my rock and best friend." In a time where spouses may not always communicate about everything, they believe honesty and transparency are the keys to a successful marriage. "We work together on everything and consult each other on everything," Linda says. It doesn't hurt that Ron is wonderfully agreeable, even tagging along during her shopping adventures.

"We both found our soulmates young," Linda says. "It hasn't always been easy. But the good times have been so much more prevalent than the bad."

MEAGAN CLANAHAN married her soulmate 10 years ago and found inspiration in each one of these extraordinary couples’ love stories.

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We’re taking a closer look at the bond shared between identical twins through the eyes of local Katyites

Written by Kirsten Cornell | Photography by Lindsey Shelburne

KATY, Texas (KM) – As the crowd cheered and the dust settled, 8-year-old Christie Mewis took to the plate and readied her bat wanting to win another hometown softball game. Back in the dugout, her twin sister Carol suddenly grabbed her cheek, jumped to her feet, and shrieked, "Ouch!" Seconds later, Christie was struck in the eye by the pitch.

The connection between twins is unique and undeniable. There have been stories about twins feeling emotional and physical pain even though they were separated by miles, states, or even oceans. They enjoy a type of closeness beyond what most siblings experience. "We get closer each year that passes," shares Christie. "I appreciate that she always there for me. No matter the situation or the time of day, I can always depend on her support."

A Special Bond in Katy, Texas For 9-year-old twin sisters Amorie and Mackenzy Meadows, being in tune with each other and their feelings is nothing new. "Once when Amorie was in Meixco and I was in Texas, I knew she did not feel well and was crying so I asked my mom to call and check on her. I was about 4 years old," recalls Mackenzy. "She was so sure that something was wrong so I called and sure enough, she was crying," confirms mother Bethany Geiman. "It was strange because she had not spoken to her at all that day yet she knew."

Amoire and Mackenzy Meadows

Deanna Wygal, mother of 13-year-old twins Devin and Dylan, remembers an instance when she was downstairs with Devin watching a TV program about twin telepathy which prompted her to ask him if he knew what Dylan was thinking who was upstairs. When he replied no, she asked him what he was thinking about. "He told me ‘donuts’ and we just laughed about it," Deanna says. A few minutes later when Dylan headed downstairs they told him about the program and asked him what Devin had been thinking about. "He just said I was crazy," laughs Deanna. "When I asked him to just guess he replied, ‘I don't know mom, donuts.’ Devin's eyes just went wide, donuts was such a random word and had no meaning to Devin." Devin had been sitting with his mom the entire time and had no contact with his brother prior to the conversation.

Devin and Dylan Wygal

Some twins often experience Idioglossia or "twin talk", as it's commonly referred to. A seemingly secret language understood only by the twins themselves. "When we were younger, we made up code words and a secret language just to pick on my mom," shares Carol Franklin with a laugh. "The more confused she got, the more fun we had with it." Even when mirror twins Carol and Christie tried to let their mom in on their conversation, she still found it difficult to understand and was unable to participate.

"We are always on the same brain wave," shares Christie. "We can tell what each other wants to do or say without speaking a word. It is actually weird sometimes – I can just give her a head nod and she knows exactly what I’m talking about." Carol agrees saying that with simple eye contact, she can understand exactly what Christie is feeling in that exact moment. "Now we have a sort of unspoken twin language. We can read each other from a pause in conversation, a tiny sigh, or a sarcastic comment. It drives my husband crazy when we’re together," she says.

Carol and Christie

Deanna also remembers when her boys were younger, they would babble back and forth seemingly in intense conversation understanding perfectly what the other was saying. "They are very close and we can see that they have a special bond," she shares.

Double the Fun in Katy, Texas In addition to double the toys and a person to share closets with, identical twins relish the fact that they always have a pal they can count on nearby. "I always have someone to hang out with, we are best friends," shares Dylan. Both students at Cinco Ranch Junior High School, the boys enjoy football, basketball, fishing, paintball, share the same tastes in music, and run with the same circle of friends.

"Being a twin is awesome. There are more clothes, more candy, and less work," says Mackenzy. "We both love to play outside, visit our grandparents, and play with our baby brother Coby," Amorie adds.

Being look-alikes can certainly pose its advantages, especially when it comes to sharing in a good-natured prank. "We tricked our teachers one year on April Fool's Day by switching classes," Dylan says with a grin. "They didn't even notice until they were told what we had done."

For Christie and Carol, their hands-down favorite thing about being a twin was being born with their best friend already in place. "I always have a partner in crime," shares Christie. "She always has my back and is my number one protector." Besides having someone she could depend on, Carol appreciates the fact that her sister drove her to be a better person. "She pushed me to go outside of my comfort zone and to accomplish things that I was scared of doing."

Challenging Comparisons Being treated as an individual often poses a challenge twins. People often compare them and lose sight of the fact that they are not a match set, but a pair of individuals defining their own paths. "Many times, I would have to really sit back and contemplate if I wanted to do something because I really wanted to, or because Christie did," says Carol.

"It can be difficult when one of us does better at something than the other," says Devin. "And when people compare us," adds Dylan.

Carol remembers being asked questions such as Are you the pretty one or the ugly one? Are you the smart one or the dumb one? Are you the good twin or the evil twin? "I would politely answer that I was the smart, good twin," she says. "Christie would say that she was the pretty smart, evil, athletically gifted twin."

Competition amongst them, while somewhat healthy, often proved stressful at times. "We turned everything into a competition," says Carol, admitting that they still do although it is much friendlier now. "It helped us excel in sports but it was also very tiring. No matter what I accomplished, I always felt like she outperformed me, it was difficult to handle at times."

"As a twin it is a challenge to make sure that we are both happy and equal," shares Christie. "Although I always know that she would be happy for me, I also want her to feel like we have the same opportunities to be successful in our lives."

Unbreakable Bond in Katy, Texas Beyond the built-in playmate and despite double the clothing to put away on laundry day, all agree that growing up as twin is a unique experience providing tremendous benefit. "We appreciate that we are always there for each other," Devin and Dylan agree. "If one of us is having a bad day or has a problem, we are always there to help each other get through it."

"My sister is willing to stop whatever she is doing in my time of need. But I most appreciate the fact that just lets me be me," says Carol. "I am always there to defend her, protect her, cheer for her, and love her."

"I can always make her laugh when she is having a bad day," Christie says with a smile. "And she would drive around the world and back just to make sure that I am happy."

KIRSTEN HAM is the associate editor for Katy Magazine and has always been fascinated by twins, especially her fraternal twin cousins, Rebekah and Courtney.

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Written by Leigh Ann Mitchell

KATY, Texas (KM) – Choosing a pediatrician that you and your child connect with is an important first step in raising a healthy, happy child. Whether you’re expecting your first baby or it's time for a a change, here are a few words of wisdom from Katy moms and pediatricians.

Asking the Important Questions

Many parents interview potential pediatricians to ensure a good fit. "I don't think there are a lot of ‘don'ts’ when interviewing a pediatrician," explains Dr. Farah Mamedov from Katy's Steeplechase Pediatrics. "You are choosing a medical home for your child, so you have to be comfortable with the doctor and the clinic." Dr. Mamedov emphasizes making sure you ‘like’ your new doctor, and asking questions to see if you agree on important parenting topics like breastfeeding, discipline, antibiotics, and more.

Katy mom Kelly Brotherton interviewed pediatricians after a disappointing experience with her children's first doctor. "Interviewing doctors is a great way to ensure your child's best interests," she notes. "Especially now, with varying opinions on holistic care and natural options, finding a pediatrician who sees eye to eye with you and is willing to build a trusting relationship will ultimately benefit your child."

Kelly and Oliver, by Kendra Martin Photography

Meet the Staff When you visit, look around to make sure the office is clean and neat. Since you will be interacting with the office staff regularly, talk with them and make sure they are friendly and helpful. A staff that is quick to respond is very important to parents. Brotherton explains, "I don't want to talk to machines and wait an hour when my child needs help. I also don't want to wait so long in the lobby when an appointment has been scheduled. I need an office that treats my time as valuable as theirs."

"It is important that the staff listens to your concerns and questions," says Dr. Mamedov. Office staff and their ability to help can make or break a potential relationship. Brotherton explains, "The management of the office was actually our deciding factor."

Compatibility is Key Like all families, Brotherton wanted a doctor who would be willing to listen to her parenting choices. "We use natural options like diet and essential oils as a first defense against illness and to promote health," says Brotherton. "We didn't need a doctor who practiced this way, just one who would support us and be willing to listen."

If you are expecting, schedule appointments to interview your top choices before the baby is born. Bring in a set of questions to ask the pediatrician, and try to pare them down to what is most important to you. Brotherton recommends asking anything that pertains to your family specifically." How do you feel about breast feeding? How do you feel about alternate vaccination schedules? These were some issues that were important to us," she says.

Ultimately, what parents are truly searching for is chemistry, not credentials. Interviewing potential pediatricians is an effective way to discover that compatibility. Asking questions and making simple observations during the interview can help parents figure out if the pediatrician is someone they feel comfortable with, someone who answers their questions, and someone they trust.

LEIGH ANN MITCHELL also went through the interviewing process to find a pediatrician to make sure he was a good fit for them and their child.

www.katymagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/katy-texas-finding-a-pediatrician-katy-tx.pdf

I am always looking for great places to take my children. Local places are even better. Let's explore Katy, have fun, and save on gas–what's not to love? Our latest venture took us to the new Whole Foods on Fry Road.

We went one quiet weekday morning and spent an hour. It may not sound like a big deal, but to keep three almost-three-year-olds in a supermarket cart for an hour is a major success. Here's how we did it. Maybe you can try it with your family, too.

1.) Go in the morning–Whole Foods, like most supermarkets, are busiest on weekend mornings. People-watching can be fun for children, but being stuck in aisle after aisle is not. So, go when you’ll have a lot of space to yourselves. Mornings are also a better choice because of number two on the list.

2.) Sample the food. This is iffy for a lot of parents. Do you trust the food that's unsupervised? Sometimes I do, and sometimes I just can't bring myself to give my children the food on the bottom of the sample display. That's why we go early in the morning. Less touched food means safer. Which leads to number three.

3.) Whole Foods has a free fruit stand for children. If the samples look picked-through, or if your kids want a bigger treat, swing by the front desk. We enjoyed two bananas and a clementine. I steered clear of the apples since I wasn't sure if they were washed. You can always bring your own snacks, too. You know your own children's likes.

4.) I like it when a place is really child-friendly. Whole Foods shows they are by having lots of tables inside and out where families can sit and enjoy the food they buy at the buffet or sandwich or pizza counter. And how cool is it that there are also a few child-size tables so everyone feels welcome?

5.) Feel free to use a supermarket outing to help teach things like healthy choices, which price is higher, shapes and colors, bigger/smaller portions, or how many of this item do we need to buy to serve our family? It's also another great chance to practice meeting people like the workers behind the fish, meat, pizza, flower counters.

I hope you utilize Whole Foods to enjoy a morning out with your children. I am sure some of these same things can be done at most other markets. Where do you go with your children to have some fun (and maybe get an errand done at the same time?) We’d love to hear from you.

Do you know a child who likes to practice skills learned in school? What?! Your child doesn't beg to do workbook pages or practice handwriting or the piano each afternoon after a long day at school? Mine either; I mean, some days he likes to, but not many days of the week. Not enough to please his teacher with awesome skills. But, do you know a child who loves treasure hunts? Most, you say? You’re right. And I have found a sneaky and easy way to reinforce school skills without complaint.

First, you’ll need to do a little pre-work yourself. Find out what your child is learning in school and find out what he really is into. You probably know the latter already.

Second, get a small prize for the end of the treasure hunt. You can't have a hunt without treasure. I use small things so that my son doesn't get disappointed when the treasure is not huge. A Hot Wheels car, a fun looking note pad and pencil, a reward for an ice cream cone, or a coupon allowing him to stay up past his bedtime all have been hits. If your child likes something in particular, chances are you can find something inexpensive at Target or Amazon that deals with that interest.

Next, write up some notes that will guide your child through the hunt. For example, we usually start at the table where I have put a half-finished puzzle. The clue says, "Finish this puzzle, then go to the place where all the bath towels are." My son needs to work on fine motor skills, so a puzzle is perfect. But, if I would have just asked him to do a puzzle, he would have politely declined. Putting it in as a treasure hunt makes it fun.

At the towel closet, he will find a piece of paper or little chalkboard where he has to write his name three times. After that, he heads to his bedroom for a few rounds of a matching game I have laid out. Then it's on to something physical, just so he doesn't think it's all work. One clue would be to choose one song off his favorite CD and dance to it, or to do ten jumping jacks, or to line up ten cars into a color pattern. Sometimes he gets to choose one page of a skills workbook to do. Maybe he’ll have to string some beads or cut and paste. Whatever it is,it has to be brief, and it has to be mixed up with some goofiness.

At the end, he will be led to the treasure. And he will ask the next night to do it again. One other aspect of our treasure hunts is that Dad does it with him. It is a time for them to bond, and that is the treasure I get out of it!

So, how do you reinforce some important school skills? Any hints or tips that have worked for you are always appreciated. Let's help our children and have fun while we’re at it; we’d love to hear from you.

It's about a week before before Valentine's Day? Are you worried about how to celebrate with your family? Okay, maybe "worried" is not the correct word. How about, are you looking for some creative ways to celebrate Valentine's Day with your children? Your children who probably already will get candy from their friends? Enough candy to open a second Wonka store? Here are some ideas that I hope you will find useful as we head to Feb. 14.

What are your plans? Share with us so we can prepare!

I know it's January, and that means the making of resolutions and the reorganizing of priorities. I follow some blogs of busy moms, and it seems to me that a major theme this new year is to not beat yourself up trying to be perfect. I think it's good advice; after all, no one is perfect. But with the advent of Pinterest, Teachers Pay Teachers, and other sites, it's difficult to not compare yourself and your lack of accomplishments with others.

As I said, looking at just ordinary blogs that my friends are writing, it is tough to see the pictures of the delicious meals, involved desserts, stylish home furnishings, and crafts for their kids without feeling a bit overwhelmed. "What have I done today," I ask myself? I fed my family, but it wasn't nearly as tasty as that blog meal. I cleaned the house, but don't invite Martha Stewart over. I found a few educational crafts on Pinterest that I printed out, but right now they’re sitting in a growing pile while my boys and I play trains. When I was growing up, we never really knew what other moms and dads were doing in their free time. Now, everyone feels like they have to blast it around cyberspace. So you’re an award-winning photographer who also bakes cupcakes decorated with your own brand of frosting. And yes, you can create educational games out of old newspapers and glue sticks. But I wonder if their real lives, the lives that are lived when the camera is turned off, are more like mine.

I think they are. And that's really what many mommy-bloggers were confessing. Homeschool moms wrote that somedays they wish they had a principal to send their own child off to. Moms who usually shared delicious-looking recipes said that there are days when it's fast food for their families. Educators who share creative ways to teach reading and math said that there are maybe ten minutes a day when everything in their classrooms are worthy of a photo.

It's not an excuse not to try to be better–if that's your inclination. I really do want to reinforce school learning at home with my children. So, maybe we have fifteen minutes of that kind of thing–found easily on the Internet, no workbooks for us, thank you! Then we play trains, or read books, or set the table together. That quiet moments are worthwhile, too. If I want to explore cooking more detailed or healthier meals, I know I can start with one dish at a time. My husband is grateful, as he says, "that you cook for me at all."

So, Katyites, relax this year and take a deep breath. Find one challenge a week, make a goal, and please tell us all about it! We’d love to hear what our neighbors are doing.

My grandmother recently celebrated her 100th birthday. She's been a Katy resident for the past 15 years, but she's lived in New York, California, and Florida. She is a product of her generation: She's never learned how to drive. She left school and began working for a living to support her family after she graduated the eighth grade. Then, she quit her nurse's aide position when she got married.

She used to be able to tell stories describing her childhood and growing up years. They were difficult for her, and for most people at the time. As we grew up, she always stressed to her us to do well in school and to work hard. She used to give us a dollar for every A we made on our report cards, and she always wanted to attend any school performances.

My grandfather had been in the Navy, and she supported my cousin when he decided to join up years ago. When my niece married a man in the Navy, my grandmother loved to share her experiences with her. It gave them a special bond.

Thanks to Leo and Kate, I knew that the Titanic was a big news story in 1912, but beyond that, it's hard to imagine all that my grandmother lived through to get to 2012. I had to use Google. Below are some of the things I discovered. Happy Birthday, Grandma! I hope I have the same good genes that you do!

Besides my grandma, other famous people were born in 1912 like Danny Thomas, Jackson Pollock, Lightnin' Hopkins, Karl Madden, and Perry Como.

If you have an older person in your family, it would be a special tribute to them to look things up and then tell them what you've found out about their birth year. It only took me a few minutes to discover so much, and when I shared it with Grandma, she was impressed. Share with us what you find; we'd love to hear your stories! Email [email protected].

Written by Ashley Bendickson

In a culture that often shouts the message, "Me first," Grace Fellowship Junior High students chose to spend summer counteracting that message by spending a week putting others first. About 70 junior high students and leaders recently volunteered whole-heartedly in Houston. Throughout the week they spent there, students served in a variety of capacities. Most of this was done by partnering with many local ongoing ministries that serve "the least and the lost" of Houston on a regular basis. Some groups spent mornings serving food to the homeless, making hundreds of sandwiches to distribute for free lunches, and others spent time learning from the kind people at an Alzheimer's facility. It was a joy for students and leaders alike to meet many people that love and serve the Lord in this city.

In addition to the morning service projects, each afternoon, students were given the opportunity to spend time with kids through partnering with the YMCA, Salvation Army, and many Rainbow House locations. Whether it was through dancing, swimming, playing basketball, or doing crafts, the consistency of the afternoon allowed for building Christ-focused relationships with these kids and teens. Watching our students from the suburbs of Katy bond with teens in inner-city Houston over things like music, favorite colors, and favorite ice cream was a blessing. These small commonalities built bridges to deeper relationships, and these new friendships helped to bring greater understanding and light to God's plan for the unity of His church.

Upon returning from the Houston mission trip, eighth-grader Whitney Picket echoed the heart of many who attended. She wrote, "I was shocked to see that so many people who have nothing can still praise the Lord, but many people who have everything seem to want everything. I went on this mission trip to change people's lives, but they were the ones who changed mine." Many of us often enter into mission trips to serve, but to our common surprise, we tend to find that God simply opens our eyes to the beautiful work that He's already doing. Grace Fellowship's junior high students did serve Christ by serving the city of Houston this week, but for many, what was learned is so much greater. Wherever we are and whatever our means, we are desperately in need of God's grace. Even better, God is faithfully in the business of pouring it out. Open our eyes. Open our hearts. Open our hands. Come, Lord Jesus.

With our oldest boy beginning pre-kindergarten this fall, my husband and I have a lot of jitters. I think that these feelings are totally normal, although they're certainly not fun to have.

Our son has been "in school" for the past three years. Toward the end of each summer leading into school, I felt a combination of pride that he was learning so much and fear that I wouldn't be with him all the time. We worried that he would miss us terribly, be bullied, or even be bored and then misbehave. It seemed that all the bad things that had happened to us as kids in school were sure to happen to him, and all of the good things – overwhelmingly good, of course – wouldn't.

Now, he's our oldest, so we know that we are navigating unsailed waters with him. The triplets will have each other, but they will also benefit from our experience with their older brother. In our minds, we know that it's unlikely that all our worries will come true. In our hearts, we still are concerned.

Have we learned anything from his past three years? Probably the same as other parents charting this course. For example, teachers are usually great. Early childhood teachers especially know that children enter their rooms at various stages and from a variety of backgrounds. I know all students at every grade level are at different stages, but at least a class of fifth-graders has been through several years of schooling and has some common knowledge and experiences.

We've also seen our son excel in school. He, like so many of his peers, enjoys going. We ask him what his favorite parts of the day are, and he usually says things like, "Circle time and recess and going to the library." He doesn't know that those fun experiences are chances for him to grow socially, verbally, and physically. He hasn't yet had to take a test or write an essay. Those things are for later, of course. So we know that he will be challenged according to his age and ability. Cutting with scissors today is enough of a challenge!

Lastly, we have discovered that we are pretty good parents, at least with regard to education! School is important to us, but we can't just leave all of our sons' learning to someone else. We share our love of books, music, art, and history with our boys. Our son will get his own library card for his birthday even though we could just check out all our family's books with one. We subscribe to a few magazines to help our boys see that learning new things is always important. It's terribly hard sometimes, but we limit the TV watching in the house to a few shows a day.

And in addition to practicing cutting out pictures and straight lines and rolling out Play Dough to strengthen his hands for writing (as his teacher suggested), we play together. We know that parents are children's greatest and most important role models and pillars.

So, although our nerves are in a bundle as we prepare for pre-K, deep, deep down, we know that he is ready for this next chapter. Tell us how your family has gotten over this hurdle – we need some good tips! And if you're just getting started like our family, please let us know how you are doing these days before the big day! Email [email protected].

By Harmony Keel and Angie Aviki, co-coordinators for FBC Katy MOPs

We are currently having registration for our fall 2012 Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) semester at First Baptist Church (FBC) Katy. The fee for the fall semester is $70 for early registration before July 29, or $75 for registration between July 30 and Aug. 31. Registration includes childcare and specialized Veggie Tales curriculum for birth to 5 years old, and we welcome homeschool-aged children, as well. Those who register prior to Aug. 31 will receive an FBC Katy Moppets T-shirt for each "Moppets" registered child. To register for MOPS at First Baptist Church of Katy, please: • Download the registration form at www.fbckaty.org/mops/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/mops_registration-form_fall_20121.pdf • Print it and fill it out • Mail or bring it with your tuition to the church office: MOPS at FBC Katy, 600 Pin Oak Rd., Katy, TX 77494

It is our wish that every mother desiring to be involved in MOPS be given the opportunity. A limited number of scholarships are available. Please contact our registration/finance coordinator at [email protected] with any payment or scholarship questions.

If you are not familiar with MOPs, it is an international organization that exists to encourage, develop, and equip every mother of preschoolers to realize her potential as a woman, mother, and a leader in the name of Jesus Christ. There are over 4,000 groups in 30 countries with over 100,000 members. The theme this year is "plunge."

The first MOPS meeting of the fall at First Baptist Katy is Friday, Sept. 14. The meetings start promptly at 9:30 a.m. and end at noon. Meetings are normally every other Friday, but are sometimes shifted to another Friday due to the Katy ISD schedule or holidays. The general format of the meeting is a meet-and-greet time, followed by brunch and either a speaker or a craft, with great fellowship throughout. We’ve already have some wonderful dynamic presenters scheduled and great crafts planned!

We welcome our fellow homeschooling moms and have a study hall setting available for homeschooling kiddos. We also meet up for playdates, the occasional mom's night out, and family events.

While moms are enjoying their meeting, the children are lovingly cared for in the preschool area while they participate in our Moppets program. This year, our Moppets curriculum is the always fun Veggie Tales!

If you want more details about MOPS in general, go to www.mops.org. If you want more info about MOPS at FBC-Katy, then check out www.fbckaty.org/mops/.

For specific questions, please feel free to contact Angie Aviki and Harmony Keel at [email protected].

Hope you can join us!

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We are currently having registration for our fall 2012 Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) semester at First Baptist Church (FBC) Katy. The fee for the fall semester is $70 for early registration before July 29, or $75 for registration between July 30 and Aug. 31. Registration includes childcare and specialized Veggie Tales curriculum for birth to 5 years old, and we welcome homeschool-aged children, as well. Those who register prior to Aug. 31 will receive an FBC Katy Moppets T-shirt for each "Moppets" registered child.

To register for MOPS at First Baptist Church of Katy, please:

• Download the registration form at www.fbckaty.org/mops/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/mops_registration-form_fall_20121.pdf

• Print it and fill it out

• Mail or bring it with your tuition to the church office: MOPS at FBC Katy, 600 Pin Oak Rd., Katy, TX 77494

It is our wish that every mother desiring to be involved in MOPS be given the opportunity. A limited number of scholarships are available. Please contact our registration/finance coordinator at [email protected] with any payment or scholarship questions.

If you are not familiar with MOPs, it is an international organization that exists to encourage, develop, and equip every mother of preschoolers to realize her potential as a woman, mother, and a leader in the name of Jesus Christ. There are over 4,000 groups in 30 countries with over 100,000 members. The theme this year is "plunge."

The first MOPS meeting of the fall at First Baptist Katy is Friday, Sept. 14. The meetings start promptly at 9:30 a.m. and end at noon. Meetings are normally every other Friday, but are sometimes shifted to another Friday due to the Katy ISD schedule or holidays. The general format of the meeting is a meet-and-greet time, followed by brunch and either a speaker or a craft, with great fellowship throughout. We’ve already have some wonderful dynamic presenters scheduled and great crafts planned!

We welcome our fellow homeschooling moms and have a study hall setting available for homeschooling kiddos. We also meet up for playdates, the occasional mom's night out, and family events.

While moms are enjoying their meeting, the children are lovingly cared for in the preschool area while they participate in our Moppets program. This year, our Moppets curriculum is the always fun Veggie Tales!

If you want more details about MOPS in general, go to www.mops.org. If you want more info about MOPS at FBC-Katy, then check out www.fbckaty.org/mops/.

For specific questions, please feel free to contact Angie Aviki and Harmony Keel at [email protected].

Hope you can join us!

Harmony Keel and Angie Aviki, co-coordinators for FBC Katy MOPs

One of my favorite comic strip creators, Bill Keane, often showed that he knew what life with children was really like. His strip, The Family Circus, centered on a couple with four young children. He titled these particular strips, "It's Apparent You’re a Parent" and showed things like the husband finding a toy in his pocket while at work and the wife correcting someone's bad language. As a single woman, I used to laugh at Keane's strips. Now, as a wife with four young children of my own, I find myself pointing to my own parental oddities. Yikes, I’m a parent!

It's apparent I’m a parent when… I can quickly browse through racks of superhero and Cars 2 toys knowing who we have at home and who we are desperately looking for.

It's apparent I’m a parent when… my husband and I know if it's going to be Steve or Joe as the host of Blue's Clues just by the first five seconds of the opening song.

It's apparent I’m a parent when… the most I will do to the driver who just cut me off is to briefly beep, because I have children in the back seat who will mimic any foul language.

It's apparent I’m a parent when… my purse contains lone Cheerios, Goldfish, and those pesty straw coverings from juice boxes.

It's apparent I’m a parent when… the DVR contains more recorded shows from Nick Jr. and PBS than any other channels combined.

It's apparent I’m a parent when… Amazon sends me ads for toys.

It's apparent I’m a parent when… my husband and I can tell you when story time is at any Katy library.

It's apparent I’m a parent when… 9:30 rolls around and my husband and I are ready to sleep.

I know these are funnies for parents of young children. I’d love to hear from other moms and dads, especially those of you with teenagers. How does your status of parent show as the kiddos grow?

Family-Friendly Ways to Stay Cool in Katy

Feeling the heat already? I know we are these days. Trust me, though, you can leave the comfort of the air conditioning for just a little while and take advantage of the "cooler" side of Katy.

1. Grab a handful of dollar bills and head to Katy Mills Mall. You can ride the carousel and the train, of course, but older kids will enjoy the trampoline jump, rock climbing, and the chance to walk on water while in the human hamster ball. The children's play zone is also an attraction. For something a little different, each child can select a lunch item from the food court, and then everyone can share potluck-style.

2. While you’re reading this blog here, check out the awesome list of area libraries on KatyMagazine.com. Try to go to each library's story time or teen activity during the summer. Discuss with your children which book was their favorite to read. Can they find any other books by the same author that they can check out?

3. Splash pads are an easy way to stay cool, but still let you get some fresh air. Cullen Park and Nottingham Park both offer awesome splash adventures. Bring a towel, water to stay hydrated, and your inner child. You know you’ll want to get soaked, too!

4. Katy Budget Books, Odyssey Comics, and the Bookworm Shoppe are all excellent places to pick up summer reading material. Kids need to be encouraged to read for fun, in addition to reading for school. Parents who model reading to their children will have to struggle less with getting their kiddos to happily open a book (or comic).

5. Don't forget about bowling. I have to admit, I haven't taken my sons there, yet, but every time I drive past Times Square, I feel the need to put on funny-looking shoes and take a peek inside. They’ll be old enough to really enjoy an awesome indoor game before too long, right?

So, I know I left some fun, local activities out. Please let us know where you and your family go to cool off during the sizzling summer days in Katy.

Like many of you, I watch a lot of cooking shows. I love the professionally-edited ones on Food Network and the artsy ones on the Cooking Channel, and I even catch a few on the weekends on PBS. Even though I don't necessarily use too many of the recipes from these chefs, I always feel inspired to rev up my cooking repertoire when I see them. My husband is a sweetheart – especially when it comes to my attempts at being Katy's version of the Pioneer Woman or the chefs on those challenge shows. How do they decorate cakes taller than me in a few hours? How does she make a week of meals out of one day of cooking? How does he know when to flip those burgers on the grill and still keep them juicy? I shout out these questions, and my husband listens as all responsible husbands do.

"Where are the pineapple pork chops?" he asks when I set before him grilled cheese and tomato soup. "Didn't work out right," I answer.

"Oh. Well, I like anything you make me. Thank you for a lovely dinner." And he means it! One time I bought some frozen tilapia to use in a Bobby Flay recipe. Somehow, my fish ended up tasting, quite literally, like dirt. I couldn't serve them. (It was reminiscent of the time I tried to make the Barefoot Contessa's Irish Soda Bread one March. More flour ended up on the floor and on me than in the dough. He told me the bread was just delicious.)

Anyway, I thought of those quick-thinking chefs on Chopped and ran to the pantry, opened up some black beans, and began heating some frozen peppers. I prayed we still had some tortillas left (we did!) and then magically microwaved cheese over nachos. My husband loved that just as much as he would have loved Bobby's tilapia.

So, it doesn't matter if you can make 10 meals out of one or if you can manage to homeschool, blog, take wonderful photographs, write cookbooks, and still get a scrumptious dinner out each day. I think as long as you can manage to get a dinner on the table most days, your family will appreciate you. Of course, we keep plenty of take-out menus on hand for days when even a home-cooked dinner is too much to ask for!

Do you enjoy or revile cooking shows? We’d love to hear from you about your Katy cooking adventures!

Remembering to be thankful for the people and moments that make life wonderful

Even though it is nowhere near Thanksgiving, I decided to try to make May another month where I try to be grateful for the people and events of my life. We all know life is busy, but so far, I have found that taking the time to be mindful of the richness already in my life helps me to not take it for granted or pine for something more. Here are my current top five things for which to be grateful. Perhaps your list is similar? We’d love to know!

1. Children's laughter. As our triplets turn 2 and become more aware of their surroundings, we hear a lot of laughter. They enjoy interacting with us and with their big brother, who of course, loves to add to all the fun. I have read in some articles that harried moms and dads can defuse a negative behavior by doing something funny for the child to laugh at. I have tried this and it usually works.

2. Family. I try to call or email members of my family each day. It can sometimes be a long conversation, but it's usually a shorter, "How are you?" type of communication. Family helps me stay grounded, and after being around children most of the day, even if they are laughing, I often need some adult conversation.

3. Food. My husband recently volunteered at the Houston Food Bank. He was astonished to learn that most of the people they serve are working families who just can't afford enough food for the month. I work hard to use up every grocery item and cringe when something goes bad before I can use it.

4. Quiet time. This is one that I have recently learned to appreciate more. With young children, it is also one that I have had to create for myself. I now wake up at least an hour earlier than they usually do just to see my husband off to work and then to have a little time to prepare for the day. When I wake up just a few minutes before the children, I find that my morning is rushed and I am grouchy.

5. Katy, Texas. I love living here! From the beautiful parks to the great restaurants, I appreciate that we decided to move here. There isn't much that Katy doesn't have: Great grocery stores and shopping are just the tip of what the city has to offer. My husband and I love Alamo Drafthouse and mini golf. My mom can have a spa day right here in Katy, and great hospitals are just up the road. Doesn't get much better than that!

Please add to my list. What can you be grateful for this month – and all year long?

Pleasantly surprised by Katyites’ kind words and good deeds during a family shopping trip

As I’ve written before, my husband and I don't travel to many places with all of the children. The park and the mall are safe places, since there are a lot of wide, open spaces for the triplets and their older brother to act like children without bothering many people.

However, one gloomy day we needed to go to Target. We wanted to get out of the house, since the weather had been rainy for days in a row. We buckled everyone in and headed out. We went to the Super Target near LaCenterra. We could get some groceries and baby items and look quickly at the toy aisle. My husband maneuvered the quad stroller through the aisles, while I pushed the nearly overflowing cart. Any parent can tell you how much space baby wipes, Pediasure, and diapers can quickly take up in an ordinary cart. The babies drew all kinds of nice looks. They were having a swell time. Older brother got a toy. All were happy – including the adults.

What struck us about this trip out were two strangers whom we met. That's what this blog is about: you Katyites! I wanted to let you know that kindness in our city is alive and well. The first person was the cashier. He was a teenager just doing his job. As he scanned our items, he asked my husband about the boys. The usual – ages, names, how much work is involved with multiples and a 4-year-old. Then he said, "I’ve seen a lot of kids here. Yours are the best behaved."

I don't know if that's true. Maybe this young man says this to everyone. But it made our day, since we had been so hesitant to "bother" people and cause a scene in public. It's hard work to load everyone up and get a simple shopping trip done. His words were gold.

As we were leaving, the rain began – more of a downpour, really. My husband took the shopping cart and older brother and ran to the van. I followed once I saw he had the doors open. I put the babies in through the back and buckled them in, folded the stroller, and shut the back. My husband took care of the groceries and buckling in the other.

We were drenched, but at least we were almost in the car. All of a sudden, a kind woman yelled out to us from her car. The diapers! We had left the box of diapers on the bottom of the cart. Thirty some odd dollars and some very useful diapers could have been left behind to be either destroyed by rain or stolen and sold back by another, not so helpful, stranger.

We thanked the woman profusely. She said, "I was watching you two move so fast, I couldn't let you forget the diapers in the rain." Now it's your turn, Katy readers. Share with us the kindness you have observed or been on the generous end of. It really made our day and gave us confidence that we can take our beautiful family out without too much doubt! Email [email protected].

The family and I ventured out this past weekend. The weather was beautiful and the house was feeling cramped, so we buckled up the four boys and went to Mary Jo Peckham Park. We enjoyed ourselves and saw many, many others doing the same. Here are five happy sights I wanted to share with you:

1. Fishing Families – It is evident that fishing is a popular Katy pastime. While we have not tried this, yet, it was great to see bonding going on at the side of the pond. With the mild temperatures, sharing stories while waiting for a nibble is a cool family experience.

2. Putting Fun – My husband and I love miniature golf. We are surely going to try this at Peckham Park in the near future. As I was pointing out to the boys the huge goldfish and catfish in the tank near the golf course, I witnessed about three different groups playing golf. Games must have been going well, since I heard a dad or two laughing and even one singing to their children as they played.

3. Exercise Fanatics – I don't mind walking in the park, but I am not one to actually allow strangers to see me do calisthenics. I must admit, though, it was obvious that those who were doing push-ups and ab work near the jogging trail have been working out frequently. If you don't mind hungry ducks getting in your way, the jogging path is an excellent place to work off some calories.

4. Dog Park Barks – My almost-2-year-olds loved getting pushed to the dog park fence and saying, "Dog, dog," as a variety of canines ran past. A few dogs even stopped for a second to say hello to us. Forget watching people, the dog park is where it's at!

5. Playground Laughs – When you’re with kids and you’re at the park, the playground has to be a stop. Our boys loved daddy and mommy pushing them in the swings and running around as one of them. We loved it, too.

I hope to see you at the park before triple-digit temperatures make the movie theater and mall the place to be. What is your happy scene around Katy? We’d love to hear from you! Email [email protected].

How we deal with all the questions that come along with having multiples

My husband and I are blessed to have four sons. The oldest is four, and the triplets are almost 2 years old. Because of the amount of work, we don't really go out together many places yet. We haven't tackled a restaurant. The park is for us – lots of wide open spaces to run, laugh, and occasionally cry when your brother pushes you over.

We have ventured out to the new HEB by Katy Mills Mall and to the mall. Perhaps you’ve seen us shopping for groceries. He's pushing the big four-seater stroller. I’m with the oldest son in the cart. We are really going as fast as we can. We don't mean to block the entire aisle. We have a lot of fun zooming around the store pretending to chase each other.

Most shoppers are great. They smile or ask how old the boys are. Sometimes we find out that there are twins in their own families. It's nice, short, and pleasant.

But now that we’ve been parents of multiples for awhile, we also know that there are inappropriate questions or comments, too. Yikes – if I hadn't been through this, I may have asked such questions, too.

That being said, please continue to smile, to make a funny face to get them to laugh, and to say things like, "Beautiful boys." All parents want to hear those kind of comments, and when we get to know you a bit more, we’ll be happy to share more.

I know I can't be the only parent in Katy to hear these questions. How do you deflect some of the more personal ones? I’d love to know and use your tricks!

Katy mom shares the importance of becoming a bone marrow donor

Guest Blog by Kelly Schuler

I had no idea how important it is to become a bone marrow donor until my daughter Lucy was diagnosed with Leukemia at 2 years old. She is a fighter and is winning her battle! Currently in remission, Lucy will continue to undergo chemotherapy for another year. The intensive two-and-a-half years of treatment will be enough to keep this dreadful cancer away. Although Lucy has received numerous blood transfusions, a bone marrow transfusion is not required. Many of our fellow young cancer warriors however are not so fortunate. Lucy has several friends on the same battlefield whose only hope of survival is to replace their cancer-ridden bone marrow with healthy marrow via a donor.

The fact that only 2% of Americans are on the national bone marrow donor registry may be evidence that many people are simply unaware that the need for donors is vast. There are more than 70 medical conditions for which the matching bone marrow is the only life saving remedy available. As many as 3,000 people die in the U.S. each year waiting for a bone marrow match and an even greater number of people die from complication arising from partially matched donors. Additionally, there are 16,000 people on the marrow transplant waiting list right now and their best chance of finding a matching bone marrow if from a donor of the same race or ethnicity. Black, Indian, Asian, Hawaiian, Hispanic and patients from multiple races are especially in need of donors.

The lack of knowledge for the need for donors may be comparable to the destitute of education regarding the donation process. Many people may be worried about sacrificing a great amount of time. Others may be concerned that the process is a painful one that may pose a health risk to the donor. How many people really know the facts?

Anyone between the ages of 18-60 in good general health can register to be a donor. Registry can be as simple as filling out some basic information on line. A registration kit is mailed and a cotton swab included in the kit is used to swab your cheek cells. The donor's tissue type is used to detect any possible matches to patients in need. If the donor is contacted by the bone marrow bank, he or she may be asked to donate in one of two ways:

In both cases, the donor's immune system is not compromised and the donated cells replace themselves within four to six weeks. There is no cost to the donor to donate and any travel costs are reimbursed by the registry. On average the donation process can take approximately 30 to 40 hours, including travel time, over four to six weeks.

Too many kids die waiting for a bone marrow match. Clearly, these sacrifices are insignificant compared to their life being saved. It would be wonderful to clear the cancer battlefield and allow Lucy's friends and fellow warriors who are awaiting bone marrow transplants a chance to be healed and a chance to go home. Give a warrior a chance and become a bone marrow donor today by registering at marrow.org or dkmsaamericas.org.

How One Katy Mom is Managing Her Stress this Season

I love those commercials for the mops and dusting cloths that attract dust and dirt. It's almost like all you have to do is take the thing out of the box and the dust in your house will just magically cling to it. If only the crazies in my life would do something similar. I could get rid of them all at one fell swoop.

It is that time of year again. Errands, shopping, cleaning, traveling, cooking, entertaining, attending parties, wrapping, and the multiple other holiday stresses are beginning to weigh heavily on families. The traffic down Fry Road alone is enough to drive me batty. Don't these other drivers know that I just want to go home? I promise I’m not trying to get ahead of them at the local Hallmark!

While you wait at the grocery store this time of year, you need the same old headlines on national magazines: "Holiday Help for Less Stress," "Five Steps to Happy Holidays," and my favorite, "How Not to Let Your Family Drive You Crazy This Season." Do these writers just recycle their annual material?

Here is my addition to the helpful holiday advice. Maybe it's revolutionary. I hope you have time to read it. It's short, I promise. Okay, here goes:

It won't be perfect.

Say it out loud and let it sink in. You’ll be amazed at how your heart rate and stress level will both lower. Those cookies you wanted to make, decorate, and bring to the office? The supermarket bakery makes them, too. That perfect meal you volunteered to make? Make the sides and pick up the main course from a restaurant. If anyone dares complain, tell them that they can be in charge next holiday!

And, oh, those gifts that you have to get – you can shop online at any hour of the night. Most places will even wrap them for you for a small charge. Pay it! Better yet, find a high school student who wants to make some money to wrap your presents or play with your children while you get some household things done. Maybe even better yet: forgo some presents and give a certificate for a future day spent together at the zoo, the movies, mini-golf, or for a day of shopping.

Most importantly, remind yourself and your family that the season of gift-giving, family bonding, and especially the religious element of Christmas are supposed to be a year-round event. You can take your time. It doesn't have to happen in one 24-hour time span.

You know this. Just keep telling yourself that it won't be perfect. Now, tell us how you stay sane at this time of year – IF you have the time to spare!

Finding Holiday Fun Close to Katy

After hearing about Dewberry Farms for years, I finally have a child old enough to begin to enjoy it. My husband, our 4-year-old, and I headed out to Brookshire last week. It was Black Friday, but instead of dodging the crowds of mad shoppers, we spent a good two hours in the country. It was wonderful.

You’ll have to check out Dewberry's website for complete hours and prices. We went on a day that was free admission. It would have cost the three of us around $35 just to enter, and I thought that was a bit steep, especially since just about everything you do there also costs a token–usually three tokens. Each token costs $1.

I was really happy to go to such a different place so close to home. We read about animals a lot at home, and here our son was able to pet a goat, feed ducks, and see real live geese that come right up to you if you let them.

Our boy who resists eating vegetables had a blast (okay, we all did) rolling around in The Corn Crib, a barn that is full of corn kernels and toy trucks to play in. We all were excited to play on a farm-like playground that was designated for small children only. Older kids found another fort-like area on which to spend some time.

We rode bikes, watched our son use up some of that energy that only young children seem to have as he jumped on bouncy pillows – similar to a bouncy house, but only the bottom part. My husband and son rode Texas’ longest barrel train twice (that was free, by the way.). We couldn't get him to try the tall slide that was built into the side of a pretty big hill. He promised next year he would try. There are a lot of other things to do at the Farm. It is a lovely, country place.

Dewberry Farms also sells Christmas trees. We had intended to take the tractor hayride out to the fields to choose one but everyone was getting tired and hungry, so we will plan better next year and do that first.

I am certain that families can have a blast and a real bonding experience just about anywhere. I was just glad that we finally drove a bit past Katy Mills Mall and found a haven of educational, innocent, family fun. We will make it our annual trip.

Have you found a place that is a real gem for families? Please share your experiences so we all can benefit.

Reflecting on how quickly Katy changes

This is my birthday month, and it was time to actually go and visit the local DPS to renew my driver's license in person. It's always such a pleasure to go. A slice of the variety that makes up our city! Last renewal, I went to the Katy branch. I’m sure I’m not the only one who really misses the Katy location that closed last year. Leave it to our city to have the friendliest and quickest DMV! Oh well…

I don't want to go on about the actual renewing process. I want to share how quickly our own lives go by. In the few short years since I got my license, I got married, moved to Katy, had four children, changed jobs, made new friends, lost old friends, and had a host of other experiences of daily life.

Now I am almost 40 – almost being the operative word! – and I’ll have to renew again in person in six years, 2017. Our oldest boy will be 11-years-old. Our triplets will be almost 8-years-old. What will their voices sound like? What will they be like? Will their interests have changed? Will they still enjoy each other and laugh so much? What will their favorite books be? Will we all finally be able to go out together without a diaper bag and a stroller bigger than Dallas?

Will we have the same friends? As the boys grow older and have more experiences, we will meet new families. I recall the song "Circle of Life" from The Lion King. We are always in flux, always changing.

I hope our family will still call Katy home, but what will Katy look like? It has grown so much in the last decade. I remember Katy Mills Mall opening with fanfare. New high schools welcoming thousands of students. New hospitals, restaurants, and the I-10 construction that seemed to never end. It is exciting to think about the future in store for our city.

What are some of your memories of the past decade? Have you seen the Katy boom, or are you part of the growing number of new residents? Welcome, welcome. Please tell us about your Katy life!

A visit with Grandma

My grandmother is recovering from pneumonia in a group care home nearby. She is 99 years old. To put it in perspective, she was born the year of the tragic voyage of the Titanic! Unlike this great ship, however, Grandma seems unsinkable. She has faced the death of her husband at an early age, some falls, a broken hip, and various other ailments. She truly is a remarkable, healthy individual!

Today was the first day I could go and see her since she left CHRISTUS Hospital. I didn't want to bring the babies, so it took a while to have a day free. I caught her as she was finishing group exercise. One thing about getting older is that you don't seem to really care what you look like. About 10 residents were using pool noodles to stretch up and down and touch their toes. It would probably embarrass me to do that in public, but she didn't think twice about it.

Grandma was happy to see me. She is a little discombobulated in this new environment. It was only 10 in the morning, but she felt the need to go to the dining room to sit and wait for lunch. When I told her it was too early, we went for a walk outside for some fresh air. Other residents were out sitting in the sun or visiting with nurses or family.

She showed me her room, and I was happy to see some cards, treats, and pictures by her bed. We had sent her a card with the picture of the boys, and other people took the time to either visit or send notes to her, too. She shares a room, and her roommate was asleep, so we left to see what else was around.

The activity calendar was out on the wall. This afternoon there will be a movie and popcorn. I told her several times about it; I hope she remembers or sees others gathering so she will join them. I am sure the day is long without these afternoon activities. Tomorrow is bingo!

I found her some hot tea and gave her a blueberry muffin I had bought on my way over. She complains about the food to anyone who visits, so my mom thought bringing her a little treat would make her happy. Grandma was appreciative, but, "It's too big to eat now. I will save it. I’ll have crackers now instead," she said.

Thanksgiving is traditionally the time to reconnect with family and friends. I am so glad that my children will know their grandparents and great-grandmother. Even though I could not stay long to visit, I feel like I made Grandma's morning a little happier. Visiting her made me a little sad that so many elderly people are away from families by necessity, but it also made me thankful for the time I do have with my friends and loved ones.

These kinds of places are home for many Katy residents, and I am grateful that their caregivers do such an awesome job with the elderly. Do you have any experience with visiting relatives or volunteering with those whose families may be too far to visit often? Please share about your time spent bringing joy to others – we want to hear!

It was brunch time on a Sunday. I had just eaten lunch and was ready to start my hunt for my quilt materials. I’m building a brand new house in Katy that is going to have zero window coverings when I move in, so to save every little bit for the down payment, I decided to make my own curtains. Besides raising bunnies and Riflery in 4H, I also did sewing so I figured I could probably tap into the old brain and see what I could remember.

To brush up my rusty skills, I decided to start on a project like a quilt – I got the idea from the TXDot signs on the highway that were advertising the Quilt Show downtown earlier this fall. (I’m telling you, advertising works no matter how you do it.)

I chose Wal-Mart as the place of purchase for my new sewing machine. It's been a while since I’ve sewn, so I didn't want to go buck wild and get a super expensive one that I might end up breaking. I know there are a couple of Wal-Marts in Katy, the one on Fry Road is the closest to me (Nottingham Country), and it was on the way home from my lunch stop. I thought it would be a great time to shop, considering I’d beat the church traffic, but it was a mad house! They were blasting music from promotional tents up front, and I almost got ran over twice trying to make it to the entrance. It was almost as if everyone that lived within a mile radius of the store decided to go at that exact time.

Once I made it in, I made a bee-line to the crafts department and there she was, on sale even: my new Simple Singer! I grabbed batting, a whole bunch of silky black fabric, some needles, pins, thread, and headed home to start.

Well, it was a little different than remembering how to ride a bike. It took me the rest of my Sunday just to figure out how to thread the machine.

Needless to say I was a little more rusty than I thought, but since then I’ve made a couple of throw pillows and one panel for my quilt. Not sure if the quilt will actually stay intact once it's done, I think I’ve got the basics down for the curtains. I can do a straight line….or maybe I should take a couple of sewing classes.

What kind of craft projects do you enjoy doing in Katy? What are the best spots for purchasing supplies?

Father/son bonding doesn't go exactly as planned

It was a 6 p.m. game at Rhodes Stadium. My husband was truly excited about taking our four-year-old son to one of his first football games. Our son was excited too. The two of them teased me about all the junk food they would eat while I stayed home with the babies. As they left, I heard my husband talking about what they would see.

Forty minutes later, they were on their way home already. It seems that our son just didn't seem interested in learning about the game. They didn't even eat anything while there. He just wanted to walk up the steps and watch some of the plays.

Needless to say, my husband was disappointed.

This sometimes happens with our kids. We parents are so eager to share our likes and our interests with our children and when they don't seem to reciprocate, we feel frustrated. Because this happened to my husband and not to me, I feel like I can look at it a little more objectively.

While my husband was disappointed, we know that our son will remember these seemingly insignificant times with us. They are shaping his memories and ours.

What little things do you like to share with your children? If you have grown children, what kind of simple pictures linger in your memories? Please share so we all can learn.

Offering friends support in small ways can make a big difference

I’m writing this before the crack of dawn today. Why? Our household has been invaded by the virus of the month. You may have run across it – it's the one that causes super-high temperatures, mostly in the middle of the night. It lasts a good three days for your children to feel better, which means parents are not sleeping. Now multiply that by the number of kiddos in your house, and you’ve got one tough virus and little rest. Our particular case has lasted about two weeks so far. Our oldest boy just got it a few days ago.

Anyway, this post is not about the virus. It is about lasagna, but first some details. In the early days of our sickness, it was just the triplets who fell ill. We had gone to the doctor, bought our juice and extra bottles of acetaminophen and ibuprofen.

My husband and I worked as an overnight team. I would hear the baby cry and go get him, amazed at the heat. He would feed and then comfort the baby as I sponged him off with a cool rag and gave him his medicine. I would put him back to bed until we did that all over again with the other two. It was definitely not a one-man job.

As we dealt with lack of sleep, I guess it became obvious to others how tired we actually were. One of our good friends wrote that she would like to bring us dinner. "It's the least I can do," she said. I jumped at the chance for some help. As you know, when contagious illness arrives, offers of help usually dwindle. No one wants to babysit your children while you sleep when the stomach flu or pink eye comes your way!

So it was such a wonderful surprise when she picked up the lasagna and drove it all the way to our house. No visit, no time for thanks that evening. She merely dropped it off on our porch, rang the bell, and headed back onto I-10 traffic to her own busy home.

It was the best meal we had had in a week. The lasagna was good, but the feeling that someone cared and that someone had gone beyond the easy "Let me know what I can do to help" statement made it delicious! She put it into action.

I can't be the only one touched by a friend's thoughtfulness. Let us know the good deeds of Katy – please share!

The other day the boys were all home from the Mothers’ Day Out program they attend twice a week. I had seen the marking on the calendar and was watching it approach with, I have to admit, some fear and trembling. A school holiday – yay!

Of course I love spending quality time with my four children, and I know that some parents spend each day with their children. I wasn't complaining, it was just that I was worried about keeping the babies happy while showing some personal interest in the 4-year-old's activities. Everyone likes to be held or directly played with which is impossible for one parent to do for the entire day. I just knew that someone was going to begin to cry or act up in order to get my attention. Our oldest boy is also beginning to stretch the limits of his independence. I know the parents reading this know exactly what I mean.

I decided to plan and organize and fill the day with so many different activities that no one could feel slighted. The night before, I looked over my game plan and hoped that by the time my husband came home, all five of us would be so worn out that the bedtime routine would be quick and painless.

The day arrived. "No more morning shows!" I over-happily announced at the early (too early?) hour of 8:30 a.m.

"What?" said my only talker, still in his pajamas.

"Let's clean up our breakfast mess and go check the weather!"

To my delight, we had loaded up the dishwasher and the quad stroller before 9 a.m. The boys seemed to enjoy our walk. I pointed out any birds, cats, or flowers I saw, and there was no fighting amongst them as I pushed them along. I was even able to get the oldest out walking on his own once we hit a green patch near our house. I checked my watch – 9:45 a.m.

What was I going to do all day? My game plan seemed to crumble before the slowly-moving hands of time.

I won't bore you with hour by hour details, but I am happy to report that while the day did move by slowly, we had a really fun time together. We put on some fun kid CDs and danced – even the babies ran around the room laughing. Big Boy was able to eat his lunch in the backyard picnic-style and then decorate the patio with sidewalk chalk. Everyone went down for nap at around the same time, which gave me some blessed moments of non-excitement. Books were read as if we were at story time and even though I was the only one who stayed within the lines, we all had a blast coloring. Our day together concluded with a quick trip to the train playground near Katy Library.

I think the trick was that I was able to put my day at their level. I knew I wasn't going to be able to do housework or computer work. I was one of them for the entire day. I tip my hat to those stay-at-home parents who don't have the opportunities to have their children attend a MDO program. It's a lot of work to be a child (and responsible parent!) day in and day out.

That was my day – how do you all do it? Share your stories and tips with those of us who are in the kiddo trenches alongside you!

Five simple ways to mark the change of seasons

I know it's still in the 90's here in Katy, so it doesn't feel like fall at all. Even though I am a realist, I am also an impossible romantic when it comes to this season. ‘Autumnal’ is one of my favorite words. Apple cider and wagon rides fill my imagination. My son is learning about our senses and each season definitely has its own smells, sounds, and tastes, so I will focus this post on some family activities based upon our senses.

Sight We don't really get to enjoy fall colors in our area, and with the drought and fires, even east Texas may be hurting for fall foliage this year. If you want changing trees, you have to get creative. Easy leaf templates can be found online. Print some out on orange, yellow, and red construction paper. Talk with your children about kinds of leaves and the trees they come from. Which state has the largest tree population? What kind of trees does Texas have? Use your leaf cut-outs as decorations for your table or write the names of people you want to remember to be thankful for during this season.

Smell This is an easy and fun sense to celebrate. The fall is made for apples, pears, dates, and kale (yes, for the healthier bunch!). Head over to Katy Budget Books for a cookbook and have some fun with your family concocting some delicious smells. Make 2011 the year to experiment with different recipes. Besides food, I smelled (before I saw) some of those cinnamon brooms that are around stores. Even though it's 98 degrees today doesn't mean you can't smell autumnal!

Taste This goes along with smelling, of course, but also you can take it a step further and invite some people who really need cheering up. This season is centered around family meals. If you know of a co-worker, a neighbor, or a teacher who is alone right now, invite them over for a day of baking or for cider and football. Adult friends can savor fall wines and enjoy food and wine pairings.

Hearing Don't you hear the sound of the fall leaves crunching and the cool winds blowing? No? How about hearing the sounds of fall at the Katy Rice Harvest Festival or the various bazaars around our community? Bingo games, auctions, music, the sound of pumpkins growing…perfect!

Touch

As I said before, this season is one of family and friends. Make it a point to reach out to those who may hate this season. Those who have lost a loved one or whose financial circumstances prevent celebrations are especially in need of compassion – and not just on Thanksgiving Day. Letting others know we care is a lesson we should pass on to our children. The more they see us doing it, the more likely they will grow up into caring, sensitive, and helping adults.

What did I miss? How can you be creative this wonderful season? Let us know!

Running the Race Against the Clock Every Morning

Two weeks into having all four boys at a Mothers’ Day Out program has brought some big challenges to my life, especially in the morning. I am running around like a mad woman. I’m sure all moms understand and can add their own experiences to the morning routine. It's calm, and then all of a sudden it's time to get up and begin the Morning Triathlon!

The first event in this never ending triathlon is breakfast. Today, my oldest son was fine eating a bowl of cereal. Yesterday, it was a bagel and only a bagel. If I had offered cereal, the tears would have started. Tomorrow, the exact same cereal will not work. The babies are fine with anything I offer, bless their little stomachs! But with babies, I need to be with them with a spoon, so the second event in the Morning Triathlon gets off to a late start.

The second event is dressing and cleaning up. I am sure that all my sons’ teachers have noticed sticky hands (the wet wipes only get so much off) and the messy hair. Teeth always get brushed so as to avoid my sons being the "bad breath boys" at school. And cavities are expensive, I hear. But as every parent knows, for some strange reason in the morning, your children develop a severe loathing of washing hands or changing diapers. Meanwhile, the clock ticks on…

Which leads us to the final event: getting into the car injury-free and in an orderly fashion. If any neighbors are watching us load up into the Odyssey, I am sure it beats anything out of the comics page. Three car seats with squiggling babies and one preschooler who now seems interested in everything except the car. "Mom, look at this bug." "Mom, why is the bike's wheel turned like that?" "Mom, did you see how many crumbs are on the floor of the van?" I can only carry one car seat at a time, so I put one baby in and then invite my oldest to go next. Huffing and puffing, carrying the second and then the third car seats, I pass the slowpoke and then finally get him buckled into the car seat. Yikes.

I then do a quick check of myself. Did I spill something on my blouse? Do I have shoes on? (Yes, I once set the alarm without them on my feet!) Do I have my purse and all the bags for school? Then off we go, passing and being passed by other parents competing in the Morning Triathlon.

Any hints or tips from Gold Medal winners out there? I’d love to hear some advice.

Enjoying Katy ISD Sports at a Young Age

It's an understatement to say that football is big here in Texas. Football has never been that important to me. Even in high school and college, I didn't mind skipping a game to do something else. I didn't grow up in Texas, and maybe that has something to do with it! Our sons are Texans, and our oldest is beginning to watch sports with my husband. Of course, the questions range from, "Dad, what ball is that?" to "Are they supposed to be hitting each other?"

So much to learn!

My husband and I have decided that it is time our four-year-old sports fan attend some games around Katy. Forget the Texans, they plan to head out to local high schools to watch some practices and, of course, to Rhodes Stadium. My husband is researching school colors and players so that he can share details about each game. I am looking forward to seeing the bands and the drill teams.

Meanwhile, our son is also concerned with what food they’ll find at the games and whether Mom will let him eat hot dogs and popcorn. On my side, hot dogs and popcorn have always been on that scary "Forbidden Foods" list that doctors give out. I wasn't going to let our children eat them until they were maybe 10!

Now that games our part of our weekly fun, I hope that our son learns to understand and appreciate football and the hard work that coaches, parents, and players put into it. I say appreciate the game because Mom's not sure if she's going to let him ever play it!

Do you have Katy football fun planned for your fall? Share some stories with us about how your family prepares for the big game.

Finding a Balanced Schedule as Katy Kids Head Back to School

I planned on getting this blog written this morning, before the four boys woke up. But it is already nearing the afternoon, and I’m just sitting down to do it. It's the beginning of a new school year. Everyone in Katy knows it, too. Parents, of course, are busier now than just a few weeks ago. The commute on Fry, Greenhouse, and I-10 is much heavier than in the summer months. I’m sure the stores are seeing higher customer traffic on the weekends now that high school kids can't run errands during the week.

In the Browne household, I am trying to implement a morning schedule that will get us out the door on time and with little stress. Ha-ha–it hasn't happened exactly right, yet, which is why I am just sitting down now!

I know this is a hot topic for parents who need to get children to school and themselves to work each day. It's a source of frustration and power-plays for me and my four-year-old.

First, he gets up too early. He has the black-out curtains and a noise machine so he sleeps more soundly, but he still wakes up. Then he has to go potty, then he goes back to bed. Then he comes out for a book to look at until the clock numbers tell him he can get up.

Second, the babies are unpredictable. Some days, they are up early and then other days they decide to sleep until I have to wake them up.

Third, I am not on schedule, yet. It makes a huge difference in our making it out the door on time if I am ready for the day before they get up. It also means that if something doesn't go right–like three surprise dirty diapers–I have to be ready to leave dirty dishes in the sink until I get home. That's hard.

So, although I have my idea of what a pleasant, easy morning should look like, it has not happened yet. We are working on it, and the carpool teachers at my son's school are very kind each morning as we maniacally turn into the parking lot. It's a good end to the morning when we make it before the carpool gates close.

More on mornings as we improve. Do you have any ideas? How do you get your carload out the door with a smile on your face? PLEASE, tell us!

Sharing Good News is Important

If you found a gas station selling gas for $1 a gallon, wouldn't you call your family and friends to tell them? Likewise, if you got a promotion or won the lottery, you’d probably be on the phone with your closest loved ones sharing the good news.

I know bad news is all around us. I’m sure you’d agree that if you watch the news – local or national – that bad news gets reported all the time. I rarely hear the good, and if I do, it's usually some kind of special award or series that the station is giving out.

I ALSO really believe that goodness and good news are all around us. If we move to focus slightly more on the good, I think our attitude and outlook might change.

Last month, I noticed my tail light on my Odyssey was out. I have no idea how to pop open the covering, so I took it up to the mechanic. I bought a bulb and asked for someone to help me. Seven attendants could not open it. Yes, seven. They partially popped it open, but then warned me that they might break it if they continued. I told them to stop. Then one more attendant who had been working on a different car came over. He took out some special tool (you can see how mechanically-inclined I am), popped open the fixture, changed the bulb, and replaced the covering in less than three minutes.

I decided to let the manager know. I sent in my happy comment via e-mail today. I am hoping that Mario gets some recognition. I am sure that usually those comments are negative. Maybe my goal to focus on the good instead of the negative will pay off for Mario. And hopefully he’ll teach the other mechanics how to change a light bulb!

You can try this, too. Received an unusually helpful waitperson at a restaurant? Let the manager know. Did the pharmacist or barista recognize you and make you feel welcome? Share that good news with their supervisor. I can only imagine the number of times a customer complains about an employee.

I am also trying to do this with my sons’ teachers. I used to teach and my husband still does. I know that as a parent I LOVE getting positive feedback about my children. Now it's my turn to send some positive feedback to the teachers who are with my children five hours a day. I’m not buying them gifts or anything, just sending short, but sincere, notes to them when I think they did an outstanding job with my children. I think they will appreciate it. I will also remember to include the principal with my good news. I’m sure she hears when a parent thinks a teacher did a bad job.

Okay, I know that a light bulb and some finger painting project is not on par with our global problems. The bad news still seems overpowering. But in my small, Katy corner, this is where I will begin. Will you join me? I’d love to hear how you spread the good news in your area.

Finding Ways to Get in Exercise, Despite the Summer Temperatures

As I write this it's nearing 8 p.m., and it feels as if the temperature is still in the 80's. So much for my goal to get outdoors and exercise more. To beat the heat, I either have to go outside when it's still dark or brave the high temperature after the children are in bed. Common sense tells me that both choices are unwise.

I try to be creative, and no doubt you’ve see some of these ideas before. But here are five of my favorite indoor exercise ideas.

No, I’m not a personal trainer, and of course, everyone should get a doctor to clear them for exercise before working out–especially in this savage heat we’re currently in. But after you get the go-ahead, try some of these ideas.

Let me know how you like them and how you stay moving in triple digits!

Finding a Moment Alone in the Busy Days of Raising a Family

It happened again this morning. The triplets were in their highchairs, our four-year-old was happily fed and playing with some car toys, and my husband and I were planning for a pleasant breakfast. Then everything changed in what seemed an instant.

"I have to go potty," said one. I looked at the babies and they had somehow managed to eat every Puff off their tray and were demanding more food – NOW! The kettle began to whistle, and I forgot what I was getting out of the pantry. Craziness in the Browne household strikes again!

I know I’m not alone. Every parent from the beginning of time can tell stories of how a seemingly easy-going moment suddenly turns into a scene from a horror movie. A child may come running in covered in blood, the dog or cat runs out the front door, a roof leak pops up out of nowhere, or the toilet/sink/dishwasher (you pick) is not working properly.

I constantly remind myself that how I respond to these moments is what my children will remember and hopefully grow from. If they see me lose it, what will they take away but that it's okay to yell or throw in the towel or to stomp away angrily. I don't want them to have that as a common experience, and that helps me stay calm.

I am far from perfect, and my husband and even my four year-old can tell you that! When I do tend to slide toward the chaos, I do my best to pull myself out and just go to work. The boy needs to go potty, okay. The babies need some finger food until I am ready to feed them, okay. Breakfast needs to be made, okay. In the mornings, I am blessed to have my husband with me – feeding babies, getting kids dressed, washing dishes, and folding clothes before he heads to work.

When I’m alone, I sometimes have to work through the babies’ cries, knowing that I can only change one diaper at a time. I think multiples quickly learn how to wait their turn.

And then there is the other daily need–to take time for oneself. My husband gets to unwind during his commute home down the Katy Freeway. I know, not exactly a drive in the country, but he listens to a CD, works out problems, and is alone! I have to take that alone time when I can get it: naptime, when the babies are quietly playing with toys together, or before everyone wakes up. It's wonderful, it's needed. And I challenge both moms and dads to find some quiet time to help balance the chaotic periods of the day.

That's how I do it – on good days. I’d love to hear from you. How do you manage the stress of daily life with the needs you have personally?

Celebrating the Little Things

As a mother of four boys, I am used to having a less-than-perfectly-clean house. These hot days of triple digit temperatures don't help keep a house clean. I can't really send my boys outside to play, so we make do inside with books, blocks, cars, and videos.

Yesterday, I was so proud of myself for enlisting my oldest boy in a quick cleaning job. Singing the "clean up song," we rapidly made headway into our living room, I mean, playroom. Perhaps you have such a room in your house.

We had been playing with chunky Legos that day. They are huge Legos, not easily missed since they are brightly colored as well. Right after the boys were tucked in, my husband and I collapsed on the couch before starting to get prepared for the next morning. Wouldn't you know it – I sat right on a blue Lego!

This got me thinking. There is ALWAYS one more toy that we find after we thought all the toys were picked up. It could be hidden under the couch or on the windowsill out of view. Why don't we find more valuable things than toys? Why isn't a twenty dollar bill or a winning Lotto ticket or even that important list just out of view? Why is it always a toy?

I tried to get philosophical with the Lego. Maybe we should use that last, hidden toy to remind ourselves that blessings are also all around us. These blessings are hidden from view, although they are there for the finding. Healthy, happy children, a moment alone with a spouse, an e-mail from a good friend, the moment you realize that everyone in your family who had been ill with the latest virus is suddenly on the mend, the fact that at dinner everyone felt like sharing today: all these little blessings are just waiting to be noticed. When I appreciate them, it makes my daily load a bit brighter and easier to carry.

What blessings are hidden from your view? How do you celebrate these tiny gems?

Katy Mother Gets Ready for Summer Tradition

Guest post by: Usha L. Machiraju

This is my sixth trip back to the car, I have the list of things that need to be packed, and I am franticly checking them off as they go into the trunk. Towels – check. Food two small coolers for the kids and a big one for us – check. Swim suits, caps and goggles – check. Folding chairs and a beach umbrella – check . Plenty of water and sunscreen – check. No, we are not going to the beach. We are going to another swim meet!

Like many other parents these days, my husband and I feel like we should give our children every opportunity that we can to explore and excel in as many sports as possible. They need the exercise and who knows if they get really good at it, it might help them enroll in or maybe even get a scholar ship to a good college. We have two girls aged 8 and 10 who are completely averse to any type of physical activity and do not have an ounce of competitive spirit between them. They are straight-A students who play the piano beautifully, but they really needed to be involved in a team sport.

We tried soccer, the one on one practices were fine, but whenever they saw the opposing team running towards them for the ball our two girls would run off the field screaming for their lives. We tried tennis and gave that up too when we watched them unsuccessfully dodge the tennis ball. And so came and went a few other sports.

But this summer we enrolled them on a swim team. They both know how to swim, no one is coming at them or after them and there are no balls involved, so how hard can that be? The pool where the team practices is not far from our house, we can ride our bikes there so we set out for our first practice in high spirits. And we were not disappointed!

Both my daughters thought it was fun and a lot of the other kids were from their school so it felt like play time. But when they realized that they had to swim for 45 minutes to an hour every day and do as many as 40 to 50 laps, the whining and the complaining started. First they protested then their bodies protested. Sore muscles, summer feet, water in the ears and everything that goes with being in a community pool for prolonged hours. And that's just the kids; we as parents had to learn a lot of things too.

I am not sure about the other swim teams out there, but the one we were part of has swimmers of all calibers, in every age group. There were some kids who were first timers, and there were some who have been competing since the age of 5. Here are some of the things parents of first timers must know: your kids are not going off to the junior Olympics after two seasons of a summer swim league, in fact your kids might not even get to swim in every event at a swim meet. Don't get frustrated.

What you can do is to take your kids to every practice and every meet, and encourage them in every way possible. The practices are gruesome; you do not get to sleep in when school is over. And the swim meets were a revelation of their own; they last for hours and are chaotic at best. By the end of the season, we are nowhere near our goal of a college scholar ship, but our kids are better swimmers, they had lots of fun, made many new friends and learned how to be part of a team.

Swimming seems to be a risk free and fun sport, so why not enroll in long term team? When both our kids tried out and made it into such a team, I proudly told the new coach that they swam in a summer league and she said "Oh, compared to this that is like play time." We are in for a very long year!

When you visit Katy, Texas don't miss Katy Heritage Park

If you’ve never been to Katy Heritage Park in historic Katy Texas, it's a must see for anyone interested in learning a bit about Katy history.

PUBLIC TOURS THE FIRST WEEKEND OF EACH MONTH On the first weekend of every month the Katy Heritage Park is open for free public tours. Docents are on hand the first Saturday of each month from 10 am to 1 pm, and first Sunday of the month from 1 to 4 PM. Guests can tour the historic homes and buildings, free of charge, and see what life was like for Katy residents in the early 1900s.

KATY HERITAGE PARK LOCATION Katy Heritage Park is located at 5990 George Bush Drive just off Avenue D.

VOLUNTEER DOCENTS NEEDED Katy Heritage Society is always looking for volunteers to be docents at Katy Heritage Park the first weekend of each month. Volunteers work 3 hour shifts, help open and lock the historic homes, assist visitors, and learn Katy history along the way! For more info, email [email protected] and [email protected]. Please say that you were referred by Katy Magazine.

MAKE A DONATION For almost 30 years, The Katy Heritage Society has been dedicated to preserving and protecting Katy's past by acquiring and maintaining historic structures and working protect local landmarks. The Katy Heritage Society depends upon public donations to continue its work. If you support Katy history, please consider making a donation to the Katy Heritage Society, click the link below:

https://www.networkforgood.org/donation/ExpressDonation.aspx?ORGID2=742046065

Donations may also be mailed to: Katy Heritage Society PO Box 359 Katy, TX 77494

JOIN THE KATY HERITAGE SOCIETY The Katy Heritage Society is a private 30+-year-old 501(c)3, nonprofit organization. From our offices in Katy Heritage Park and through outreach projects the group is working to protect and preserve the historic resources of the Katy area for the use, education, enjoyment and economic benefit of present and future generations. You can find out about membership levels by visiting their website.

Must-Haves for the Pantry

Reaching for a snack is a constant for my kids, especially after school and after dinner. Today's kids are snacking more and getting much less exercise than kids five, ten, even 20 or more years ago. Traditionally, families ate during mealtimes only, and they were more physically active in their overall lives. In today's America, however, far too many sugar-filled and salt-laden processed foods line our grocery aisles, and then find their way into our pantries at home – and we’re not spending the added "food energy" in our bodies as fast as we’re adding it.

Since cutting most sugar-filled and processed foods out of our family's diet, we have had to adjust the types of snacks we stock. Here are the top healthy options waiting in the pantry when my kids reach for that after school snack:

1. Peanut or almond butter – Great source of protein and fiber and easy to use in sandwiches, smoothies, sauces, and as a veggie spread. This natural nutty goodness is nicely filling, and is a great grab snack anyway you serve it!

2. Pocorn – A classic favorite, popcorn is light, fiber-filled, and easy. Popcorn provides a fun crunch and texture for the snacker, and is a great source of bulk. This is the cream of the crop for my kids, as they turn to this snack when they are craving less healthy alternatives, like chips.

3. Whole wheat bread, bagels, and wraps – A healthy sandwich, piece of toast, or quick wrap are always an option if you keep these items stocked! So many varieties, take so little time, and satisfy even the pickiest eater! Make sure the options available are true whole wheat or whole grain varieties (if the label ingredient says enriched, steer clear!)

4. Nuts – Almonds, walnuts and pecans are best, in that order. These three have the most benefits, carrying loads of fiber (3 grams for one ounce) and vitamin E, folic acid, copper, magnesium and the amino acid arginine. Each of these benefits present evidence of playing a role in preventing heart disease, so it's not just a healthier snack option, it's one of the healthiest! Some information out there is warning of the high levels of fat in nuts, but be assured, they contain healthy fat – these choices are very low in saturated fat.

5. Crackers – Most brands are naturally sugar-free, low in fat (no trans fat!) and available in whole wheat. Serving sizes are realistic, and actually fill the snack need – great alone or with spreads, cheese, or even veggies! Try a fresh pico salsa with them, or mix some salmon with whipped cream cheese and spices for a quick and easy protein boost.

6. Prunes and craisins – Add them to your nut mix, or just pop them in your mouth for a quick sweet tooth fixer. Either way, the high fiber count (almost 4 grams per serving) and loads if vitamins and minerals contained in this dried fruit packs a punch in your body for health! Craisins (dried cranberries) also provide many benefits as you enjoy their naturally sweet-tanginess. They were found to have the highest level of natural antioxidants per gram than any other fruit! That's a good reason to munch on them – you’re boosting your immune system and protecting your heart at the same time!

7. Salmon – bagged or canned – Filling, full of protein, so quick and easy, we enjoy this as a snack weekly. The benefits to this fish are numerous – of course, the omega-3 fats, but salmon also contains high levels of vitamin D, vitamin B3, B6, and B12, and many other vitamins and minerals. It is an energy booster, and a generally good choice for a midday snack.

8. Tea/sugar-free drink mixes – It is so easy to whip up some iced tea or a cold pitcher of sugar-free fruit punch! This has made the transition from sugar-laden juices, sodas and other harmful drinks to much healthier options easier on my kids. Of course the ideal is to end up sugar-free without sweeteners, but I have learned to choose my battles, and I am choosing the lesser evil on this one! One really great option I have found for chocolate milk – 1 Tbsp. of Nesquik's 25% less sugar chocolate powder mixed with 6 oz unsweetened soy milk – equals one happy kid, and that is achieved in under seven grams sugar!

It is possible to make healthier choices in snacking at home, it just takes a conscious decision to make the transition. Decide to do it, commit to a plan, and watch your family grow healthier today!

Lisa's Fresh Bean Relish

This springtime relish is easy, fresh, and full of natural fiber. Thanks to Lisa (Juan's co-worker), our family enjoys this quick dish often with grilled chicken or as a side to fish. It turns out best with all the ingredients rinsed and completely drained, and then refrigerated overnight. It's one of those dishes that just gets better with time.

This recipe has helped our family eat more beans, which are rich in fiber and other nutrients for the body. I personally have never enjoyed beans, but this dish has a way of hiding the bean taste in the goodness of the overall dish, and I have enjoyed it often now.

Here's the recipe:

1 (15 ounce) can black-eyed peas

1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, drained (or 1½ cups frozen)

1/2 cup chopped onion

1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper

1 (4 ounce) can mild green chiles

1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained

1 cup Italian-style salad dressing

1/2 teaspoon garlic salt

In a medium bowl, combine black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, onion, green bell pepper, jalapeno peppers and tomatoes. Season with Italian-style salad dressing and garlic salt; mix well. Cover, and refrigerate overnight to blend flavors.

If you prefer fresh tomatoes, substitute 1¾ cup for the canned diced tomatoes. For a spicier relish, switch out the mild green chiles for jalapeno peppers, either fresh diced or canned.

Experiencing New Culture in Katy

Recently, I added some new culture to my family's diet with some delicious Afghani food. My dear friend Ghizal and I both packed up our little ones (both 3 years old and best buds.) along for a ride to the Middle Eastern specialty store in Houston. What a learning experience. I was surprised at the selection available in organic and specialty health products, though I shouldn't be. The culture I was experiencing supports a strong Mediterranean-type diet, with such a fresh appeal. The amount of aromatic spices and savory sauces and dips available was delightful. I was like a kid in the candy store, and I plan to go back very soon.

The prices were comparable, and in some cases, better than the general market's. I found the tofu I had been searching for, grabbed some wonderful Tzitziki sauce, and overindulged in teas, spices, and olives. The pita bread I bought fresh from the in-house bakery was so chewy and delightful, that a day later, the kids have almost finished it. I’m definitely going to get more of that next time, and bake it gently to make pita chips for the kids.

Later at home, Ghizal helped me cook yet another native Afghani dish, her ground turkey meatballs, as I provided a healthy and delicious Middle Eastern dinner for my family. For sides, I made brown basmati rice in chicken broth and popped a fresh frozen bag of veggies in the microwave, adding some cumin and lemon pepper to them for great pizzazz in just minutes. Frozen veggies are such a smart choice, as the vitamins and minerals in them are well-preserved from the freezing process.

I noticed recently something that has been resonating in me the more Ghizal and I get to know each other. No matter what the obvious and fascinating differences in our cultures, the more we realize we are also alike. The Hispanic and the Middle Eastern cultures are so similar in traditions, flavors, values, and other areas. It is a fun experience to learn more about each other, and what we value most. She is even teaching me some Dari, her native language.

All cultures are valuable, with something wonderful to instill in others, and I am learning this all over again firsthand. What other culture are you currently experiencing (or desire to), and how do you embrace those moments?

My kids are so happy to be off for the holiday today – with the extra stress of cramming for the upcoming TAKS test at school, today came just in time. The weather is so perfect here in Katy today, warm and toasty, but with a cool breeze blowing through. So we started our three day weekend off right, out in the garden and front yard, adding colorful impatiens to our growing collection of spring beauties. Then we planted the rest of our herbs, adding dill, cilantro, and basil to our "edibles" garden. After some fun in the early morning sun, we started breakfast.

Breakfast on the weekends at our house is always a big deal, since there is time to not only create, but enjoy, a fuller spread than on rushed weekday mornings. As I prepared yet another version of my healthy iced coffee for us, and started flipping low-sugar pancakes, my seven year old daughter GiGi exclaimed, "Mom, this is the best weekend ever!â"

She has been looking forward to this weekend for many reasons (she knows there will be an egg hunt on Sunday), but the simplest reason has already been the most rewarding for her – I promised her iced coffee. She asked for it all week, but I just didn't think it would be right to send her off to first grade, hopped up on full strength coffee. So I told her to wait until the weekend, and now we’re here, and her craving is satisfied. Her proclamation of the "best weekend" is also tied to the fact that she doesn't love school right now, so she realized this morning that she's already having this much fun, and – it isn't even Saturday yet.

That is what I love about kids, and the way they see life – all it takes sometimes is pancakes and iced coffee to make their day. The best things in life really are free when you’re seven. These are the things that really matter, aren't they?

Eight Pantry Must-Haves

To cook healthy for your Katy family, your pantry must be stocked with healthy ingredients. Here is a quick list of the items you’ll turn to as you begin to cook healthier dishes for your family. Having them on hand makes last-minute decisions for dinner better choices. If the only thing available to grab and fix is wholesome, the likelihood of "falling off the health wagon" is decreased.

1. Chicken, vegetable, and beef broth (low in fat and sodium are best) – You’ll need broths for veggie dishes, soups, casseroles, and sauces. Always have a few cans or boxes of each on hand. Our bodies are benefited by the high concentrate of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, silicon, and sulphur found in meat broths.

2. Nuts: almonds, walnuts, pecans – The three choices listed are the healthiest choice – these nuts contain monounsaturated fat, vitamin E, folic acid, magnesium, copper, protein, and fiber, and are rich in antioxidants – they help prevent heart disease and lower bad cholesterol. Plus, they fill you up and make a great ingredient in many dishes – rice, salads, baked goodies, and as a simple snack.

3. Whole wheat pasta – There are plenty of varieties available now: stock spaghetti, elbows and penne. Pasta dishes made with veggies and chicken or fish are healthy, and are simple one-pot dinners for the whole family.

4. Beans, all different varieties (black, cannellini, and chickpeas are our favs.) – Beans are so rich in protein, dietary fiber, complex carbohydrates (energy givers), and provide good fats for the body. Beans can be used in sides, soups, salads, and casseroles. For easy preparation, used canned varieties.

5. Truvia, honey, and stevia (for baking, use Splenda) – Hot debate swirls around "fake" sweeteners constantly, but rest assured, choosing and stocking one or all of these choices is a good decision. All of them are better for your body than sugar, hands down. They will add flavor and sweetness to your cereals, baked goodies, desserts, and fruit dishes – without the toxic damage of processed sugar.

6. Canned tomatoes – crushed, diced, paste and sauce – Select low sodium varieties, and use these Lycopene-rich fruits as a staple for soups, casseroles, veggie sides, and other dinner dishes. The rich levels of Lycopene in tomatoes work to stave off cancers, heart disease, and high cholesterol.

7. Whole wheat or grain bread – Bread isn't good for us unless it is whole wheat or whole grain – enriched flour and breads are still processed, and not good for us. Use this healthy staple in sandwiches, for morning toast, or as a filler in favorite dinner dishes, such as meatloaf.

8. Olive oil, pan sprays, sunflower oil – Cooking with these lowfat and naturally healthy oils is a winner every time. They contain vitamins E, K, and A, as well as other powerful antioxidants, which are anti-inflammatory agents in the body. Use to cook with, or in salad dressings and marinades, and in bread dips.

Of course, this is a simple list with easy explanations for use of these items in your family's healthy cuisine. Use your imagination and creativity to explore other uses and options for these staples and be sure to share them with us. Here's to simple family health from your Katy kitchen pantry.

How to Enjoy a Healthier Daily Cup of Joe

Coffee has gotten a bad rap in recent years, and with good reason. The coffee that the bulk of Americans are drinking is loaded with additives, sugar and other unnatural ingredients which are harmful to our health. This post is in no way meant to tout the consumption of the coffee drinks that have become the popular mainstay of the morning routine, but rather to offer a redemptive take on the benefits of the pure form of the dark liquid given to us by nature!

On that note, keep in mind that as I talk about coffee in this post, I am speaking of black coffee, and know that as you add sweeteners, cream, whip, or any other delight, that those additions are the basis of coffee's increased popularity and decreased nutritional value. Here are the soundly tested benefits of coffee:

Coffee contains only 7 calories per 6 ounces, and it is believed that decaffeinated contains the same benefits as full strength. The caffeine is really the key negative of coffee, as it can be harmful in large doses. It is still up for debate though, as new studies continue to find the benefits to outweigh the harm.

Moderation and keeping the coffee pure are the best bet when enjoying a cup of morning joe! Use sugar-free creamer, or heavy whipping cream (less than one gram of sugar) and a natural sweetener, like Truvia, to flavor your cup. The popular drinks served at the coffee houses, on the other hand, are loaded with calories, sugar and a lot of fluff! They are also a costly treat, and although I occasionally indulge in a sugar-free cappuccino, I make most of my coffee drinks at home. Here is a simple iced coffee recipe:

Ingredients

Directions

Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour in chilled brewed coffee to desired strength (about 1/3 of glass for mild strength – ½ for stronger). Sweeten as desired. Top with milk.

Yummy!

Survival Tips For Transition

When the decision has been made to get healthier as a Katy family, the look of your food shelves must change, little by little! In order for the family to eat healthy, the available selection must be healthy. There are several items I suggest you stock in your pantry for both cooking needs and quick snacks. One thing that is so important to remember that during the exchange of previous foods to healthier picks: it takes time for your family to adjust.

The previously available selection of processed, junk foods has wreaked havoc in more areas than the body – there is usually a mind connection as well – especially to comfort foods. The process gets easier with time, but the ease of it depends greatly on the ages of your children, and level of willingness of the family as a whole to make this change for the better together. During our pantry makeover, we’ve struggled with two of our children especially – both were picky eaters to begin with, and they have fought the transition harder than the other two.

During this transition from previous eating habits to the ones you now keep, remember to pick your battles. If your child is having a difficult time adjusting to less sugar, less carbohydrates, and more whole foods, add in fun favorites that are not harmful, and ease the recovery! For instance, I make sure to keep sugar-free puddings in the fridge, and microwave popcorn in the pantry. Two of their favorites, and they don't feel as deprived.

Over time, the transition eases, the family adjusts, and enthusiasm grows – especially as results begin to show due to the sacrifice. Be patient with your family, continue to educate yourself in new recipes, ideas, and healthy additions to the family's diet, and above all, splurge when necessary! In the rough spots where discouragement may come, go grab a sugar-free deluxe coffee drink, and small plain frozen yogurt for the kids. Allow yourself a break and then get right back on track, you’ll be refreshed, and ready to restart the whole and healthy plan you’ve all committed to.

This Easy Recipe is Sure to Please Any Katy Family

You can cook gourmet dishes in little time, with little effort, offering your family something full and healthy for dinner. Since spaghetti sauces are loaded with sugar, I have resorted to using crushed tomatoes with a small amount of tomato paste stirred in, along with your fave Italian seasonings (garlic, thyme and oregano always work for Italian.) to make quick and easy semi-homemade sauce. This dish is easy, will please your picky eaters and is healthy. Enjoy!

RECIPE:

1 – 28 oz can crushed tomatoes

½ of a 6 oz. can of tomato paste

½ medium onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, diced

1 – 6.5 oz can of mushroom pieces

1½ lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 5-6 thighs)

For Rice:

2 – 15 oz cans chicken broth

2 cups basmati rice

Heat up 2 tbsp olive oil in a large fry or saucepan. Sautee the diced onions for 3 minutes, add the garlic and continue sauting for another minute or two, until the onions are clear. Add the chicken and brown it for 3-4 minutes on each side. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and paste, stir to blend. Season with desired seasonings (I use oregano, fresh thyme, black pepper, and garlic salt.) Add the mushrooms (drained), place the lid on, and simmer on medium heat for about 20-30 minutes. (Or until the chicken is cooked tender.)

Rice: While the chicken is cooking, in a saucepan, heat to a boil the cans of chicken broth and 1/3 cup of water (liquid should total 4 cups). Add 2 cups of basmati rice to the broth, and cook, covered, for twenty minutes or until done on medium heat. The rice will absorb the fluid and be fluffy and soft.

Serve the cacciatore over the rice – yummy!

A Trip to the Rodeo Makes for a Memorable Day

Going on an outing as a family can be so fulfilling, and establish fond memories for your children for years to come. We took a fun day trip with our kids over Spring Break, to the Houston Rodeo and Livestock Show. It was like a springtime mini-vacation, as we got out of the house for a day, and drove the half hour to the Houston event.

At the Rodeo, we experienced the carnival, animal displays and petting zoos. We got to feed baby goats, hug chickens, and watch a new baby chick hatch right in front of our eyes. We got to plant sunflower seeds (which are now happily sprouting here in our home garden.) and hold squiggling worms, and even accidently stepped in pig poop. We saw brand new pink baby pigs scramble to get food from mama pig. We got to watch new, gangly-legged black lambs nudge each other to get up and romp. Hugging the neck of a real-live llama was fun, then giggling as a chicken and a baby goat both climbed up on its back, plopping down for a nap.

It was a stimulating day, and as we loved on the overly-loved animals in the petting zoo, our stomachs started rumbling. It didn't help that the scents of barbeque, tacos, hamburgers, pizza, and other awesome fair food were in the air. We had sausage on a stick, nachos, corndogs, and brisket. Yummy, so, so fun to get unhealthy for a day.

Jovanni was on a winning streak at the carnival's game booths, bringing home assorted stuffed critters and cheap plastic toys. He scaled the climbing wall quickly, then repelled down again, all grins. The girls rode the pink elephants, their hair blowing wild around their smiling faces. Sophi started out strong on the jungle gym, but eventually had to be carried, petrified, by the nice ticket man across the rope-held bridge. Too much fun.

Exhausted, we happily collapsed later that night in our own beds back home. Time well spent on memories and experiences.

Did you visit the Houston Rodeo and Livestock Show this year? What funny or interesting things did you experience?

A Quick and Healthy Alternative to a Restaurant Favorite

Always on the lookout for quick and healthy, I have reinvented Chili's famous lettuce wraps and made my own version at home. I think this one is much easier and definitely does without all the sugar-filled sauces you’ll find at the restaurant. Try them for yourself, and let me know what you think.

This recipe is just about as easy as it gets for a healthy, filling, and quick dinner. All you need is a nice head of green lettuce (any type BUT iceberg), sliced grilled chicken, carrots, onion (purple or green are best), sliced almonds, and crispy rice noodles. You can add any extra ingredients that you might have a hankering for, like I did with bacon pieces in this picture below. Yellow or red bell peppers are also a strong addition, adding more than a naturally sweet taste and vibrant splash of color. They are loaded with antioxidants and vitamins.

A light drizzle of Kraft Light Asian Toasted Sesame dressing over the mix tops it off beautifully. The dressing only has 3 grams of sugar and 25 calories in one tablespoon serving.

We have this on easy nights and wrap the mix in the lettuce leaf, like a natural burrito. It is fresh, crisp, and light but still so filling. The colors in the dish are representative of the depth of health found in the ingredients. One easy rule of thumb when eating healthy: the more colorful a vegetable, the more vitamins and minerals found in it. Enjoy!

Enjoying Weather, Nature and Making Memories

Getting outside in Katy this spring has been easy, due to the gorgeous weather and lack of offensive insects. As the grass and trees are turning green and coming alive again, the instinctual internal urge in some of us to get out and get dirty has taken over. Both Juan and I are nature lovers, and I guess the kids inherited our love (or adapted to it.) They are outside everyday now, leaving the long, dark days of winter behind them.

Riding their bicycles, catching frogs, blowing bubbles, playing with sidewalk chalk, and helping us garden are the activities of the day now. The hillbillies that my kids are, bare feet and comfortable is the dress code. I’m soaking it up. My fondest childhood memories are wrapped around similar activities with my parents at the farm in Illinois. We caught frogs, too, and ran wild in the green grass, dug in the dirt with my gardening mama, and re-entered a warmer world every spring, just free to be.

So this weekend, when I rallied the family lawn crew to help cut, trim, sweep, and plant, the kids squealed in delight and argued over who got to do what. We were all out there, our man Daddy pushing the mower and manning the trimmer. Jovanni was master yard cleanup foreman, and the girls just giggled and swept. Even Sophi had fun helping.

It is fun to see last year's bulbs reappear as fresh new spears of potential color. The new flowers are settling in, and their blooms are vibrant pinks, purples, and oranges as they have begun liking their new home. The grass is thick and beautiful, and the new avocado and lime trees are sprouting new growth and even blooming. The hyacinth is the queen beauty, showing off her big, tropical pink-orange blooms.

Between the kids and the plants, I guess you could say we’re all one big, growing family.

What are you and your family doing outside in Katy this spring? We would love to hear your ideas on fun and rewarding outside family activities.

This has been a family favorite of mine for years, and the perfect amount of sweetness and moist texture of this recipe will make it a new family favorite of yours. This recipe also makes 12 muffins, soft on the inside and chewy on the outside!

Recipe: 1¼ cup flour 1 tsp baking soda ½ tsp salt 2 large eggs, room temperature ½ tsp vanilla extract ½ cup (one stick) butter, room temperature 1 cup sugar(for low-sugar recipe, use 1/2 c Splenda, 1/2 c sugar) 3 ripe bananas ½ cup walnut pieces

Preheat oven to 350 degrees, prepare four mini loaf pans, or 9x5x3 bread pan. (Mini loaf pans work better, bread stays really moist!) Sift flour, soda and salt in medium bowl, set aside. Whisk eggs and vanilla together, set aside. Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Pour egg mix into the butter and sugar mix, stir until mixed together. Mash bananas thoroughly, then pour them in to wet mixture. Fold in dry mix, beat all ingredients together. Add nuts, stir several more times. Bake mini pans for about 40-45 min, bread pan for 50-55 min. Done when inserted toothpick (or butter knife!) comes out clean. Cool for 5 min.

NOTE: The LOW sugar version of this bread uses ½ cup Splenda and ½ cup sugar – still moist, but much lower calories and sugar content! Another fun tip for a special treat is to add 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips to the mixture when the nuts are added.

Tips and Tricks to Get More Fresh Produce Into Your Diet This Spring

Fresh spring veggies are colorful, appetizing, and vital to our overall health. The nutrients and vitamins found in vegetables not only give our bodies the nourishment they need, they also work to combat the toxins in our systems. For instance, dark greens like mustard and collard greens, kale, and green leafy lettuce contain high levels of vitamins B6 and C, fiber, calcium, carotenes, manganese, and copper, just to name a few benefits. Green vegetables, especially leafy greens, give us cancer-fighting benefits. This is mostly due to their high content of antioxidant compounds including vitamins C and E, carotenes, and a high content of glucosinolates.*

Growing up the farm in Illinois, we grew all our own greens and vegetables in Mom's large garden. Fresh green beans, spinach, zucchini, beets, onions, carrots, and even wild-grown asparagus were always on our springtime menu. My family and I never had a shortage of home-grown, organic vegetables and herbs. Mom canned, too, so even into the winter we enjoyed the fruits of her springtime labor.

It is easier than ever to obtain fresh and healthy vegetables to your family diet on a daily basis. Although green vegetables are the best choice, allowing for variety in the selection will keep your family interested in continuing to eat vegetables. Vary the dishes between fresh selections such as salads, and hearty sauted and grilled varieties. Add low-sugar ranch and sour cream dips to an appealing selection of crunchy raw veggies for your family's enjoyment. Use your creativity and entice them to choose vegetables over empty, harmful, processed foods that will only add toxins and no value to their diet.

Whether you grow your own, buy them fresh at a Katy market, or go for organic selections, just find ways eat more veggies. The powerful benefits found in them will detoxify, add vitamins and minerals naturally, and nourish your body. All good reasons to enjoy more green this spring with your family in Katy.

Do you have any "fresh" ideas on how to consume more green? Bring on the suggestions – share it with us.

* Nutrition information found at DailyChef.com

Time to Fire Up the Grill and Barbecue pit as Temperatures Rise

Now that it's warming up outside, the Katy family is migrating into the backyard more, and its time to pull out the grill. Are you in the mood for healthy family dinners that are easy to prepare and even easier on the tummy? Juicy, tender meats aren't the only whole foods that are good to grill; veggies, bread, and even fruit are delicious additions to the grillin’ family.

Here are some tips to ease you into warm weather dinnertime on the back porch. Less time and effort spent on dinner equals more time to be active with the kids and spouse on these great days.

1. Prep is the key. Yep, you can grill just about anything, but for the best results, remember that preparation, marinating, and timing are very important. For meats like steaks, chops, and ribs – rubs and seasoning mixes are the best. Thicker steaks, though, should be marinated in liquid to help retain the natural juices. Chicken is best when marinated for an hour or so to help hold in the moisture and tenderness. Veggies, like asparagus, zucchini, and kabobs, can be basted in olive oil, or lemon butter. Fish is best buttered or oiled, as well, with herb seasonings like lemon pepper and fresh rosemary. It's a personal taste preference, ultimately, so experiment with the methods until you find the ways you like it.

2. Creativity gone wild. One of the reasons I love grilling is because you can cook everything on there. Get creative, research fun recipe combinations, and realize that there is no limit for what you can grill to eat. Succulent fruits are all the rage now, and my family and I love pineapple grilled with fish or chicken, or even an Asian-inspired marinated steak. Peaches, apples, and even bananas can be grilled as well. Kabobs are so much fun, mixing healthy, ripe veggies with some chunks of chicken or pork.

3. Cleanup is minimal. In addition to keeping the heat outside of the house, grilling cleanup is so easy. Using things like aluminum foil and pans placed right on the grill surface will also add to the ease of clearing away the dinner dishes. Use oil sprays straight on the grill surface before placing the meat or veggies for less stickiness. Family members will be volunteering to be cleanup crew when you barbeque.

4. Burn not, want not. One of the dreaded results of the family grillout is the great BURN. To achieve cooked meat without a black, crispy shell, watch the temperature on the grill. If you are using a charcoal burning grill, try not to use lighter fluid to light the fire, as this will leave your food with more marinating than you bargained for. Wait until the fire has burned low to no visible flames, and more of an ember glow. The gas grills (my personal favorite.) are a little less maintenance, and don't leave unpleasant reminders of the resident pyromaniac's latest achievement. The only drawback with them is to plan ahead of time to have propane on hand – there is nothing like plopping the succulent, raw chicken on a grill that burns out halfway through.

5. The more, the merrier. Food, that is. A really great grilling tip is to take advantage of having the heat already on, and grill an few extra chicken breasts to store in the fridge for those midweek soups and salads. We do this every week, and my husband uses them for a quick wrap or salad for work lunches. The grilled taste keeps the chicken tasting fresh all week, even for picky leftovers people like us.

Did any of these tips help you get motivated to take advantage of the gorgeous spring weather and get outside for an evening in your Katy neighborhood? I hope so. Let me know what tips work well for you in your culinary skills at the grill.

Tips and Tricks for Making Your Budget go Further

There are a few good pointers to remember when shopping for today's Katy family. Some of these tips you’ve heard before, yet some may be new to you. Applying even one of these money-saving ideas to your own family's grocery budget will stretch your dollars, and that's a good thing.

Consolidate the little runs to the store into one. All those extra runs to the store during the week stretch more than just your patience. The gasoline used, time spent, and stress level raised are just a couple of reasons to turn many little trips to the store into one big one. For some families, twice a month might be necessary, for others, maybe once a week. The point is to find something that works for your family, make it a priority, and stick with it.

Pre-plan the meals, then stick to the plan. To shop frugally, it is necessary to pre-plan the meals for the time period you are shopping for. For example, I go shopping every two weeks, so my menu plan is for that amount of time. Just thirty minutes earlier in the week (when you’re not hungry.) make a point to pre-plan the menu, as well as breakfast and staples needs. I save an average of $50-$100 each trip due to pre-planning, and I’d say that is pretty good pay for a half-hour's work. It's important, though, to stick to the list and forgo the impulse buys once you reach the store.

There are also many affordable services on the web to use for menu planning, and they are a really great option for busy families. E-mealz, The Menu Mom, and others are very low-cost, menu plans (and shopping lists.) for every kind of family.

Strategize the store specials – but count the cost. Watch the circulars, because the competing stores can have substantial savings at different times. Be aware, though, of hidden costs in shopping at too many different stores. Impulse buying, deceptive advertising, and the gas and stress of too many stops all add up and can backfire on the original intent to save. For example, I usually can manage two stops each trip, so I strategize between the top two stores as far as specials and overall savings on the items I really need for that time period. I am not a food hoarder, so I only shop for the ingredients, items, and add-ons necessary for those two weeks.

Use coupons, circulars and online specials wisely. Couponing is great, and I highly recommend it, but they must be used with strategy. If you are on a special eating plan, like gluten-free, low-sugar, or other diet plan, it is absolutely necessary to buy only the items allowed. So coupons should be seen as a help, not an excuse to buy foods outside of the eating plan. They can also be deceptive, as generic item many times is cheaper than the discounted name-brand item. Watching the store circulars for their sales and specials is just as simple to do online now, and pays off in time and money. You will be aware of what to buy where, and for stores like Wal-mart, which matches specials and coupons, you can bring in the circular or coupon and get the competitor's price in one stop.

Bring cash or debit instead of credit. This is a biggie, and we just started doing this again near the end of last year. Paying with debit or cash for groceries increases the impact of the amount spent, according to a study by the Journal of Consumer Research done with 1000 shoppers over a period of 6 months. The study found that only 14% of Americans pay with cash, and that the impulsive buys, like junk food, decreased tremendously when the participant paid with debit or cash. The theory is that the consumer thinks twice about their purchase if they are parting with tangible money, versus the separation of money and emotion created by the credit card. My family and I found this to be true last year as we overspent on groceries an average of $237 per month, versus keeping to the budget 85% of the time this year so far.

Making a conscious effort to implement any of these ideas will show a tremendous improvement in how much of your family budget is spent at the store. Do you have any ideas that work for your Katy family? We would love to hear them, share with us.

Great Ideas for Spring Break Activities

In this economy, the frugal Katy parent is constantly on the lookout for ways to save bucks. The good news is that there are plenty of fun activities to do with your kids that don’t cost much, or even any, money.  Here are five of them â€" enjoy these bonding and memory-making ideas with your kids without putting a hurt on your checkbook.

1. Have an experience with nature. Every member of the family can enjoy some aspect of getting out into nature, you will find. It is refreshing to the soul and body to leave stress, technology, and the hustle of home behind for a couple of hours and just enjoy the breeze through the trees, sound of the birds, and warmth of the sunshine on your skin. It costs absolutely nothing to take the kids to park, and next to nothing to drive to the nearest State Park. The experiences and memories for your family, though, will be priceless.

2. Take a road trip. Remember when you were a kid, and the best part of any road trip you took with your family was the anticipation? That fact hasn’t changed for today’s kids, and to take even a day trip a couple of hours away is exciting and rewarding for the family. It’s as much fun to a kid to have restroom stops and buy snacks as it is to actually get there. Once, when we had just moved to Texas, we took a day road trip just to explore this area we now called home. The trip itself was the destination. We picked wildflowers, ate ice cream in a quaint neighboring town, and stopped at Whataburger for our dinner. The kids still talk about that road trip, and the only cost was gas and food.

3. Go camping as a family. If you already have most of the necessary equipment, this is the lowest cost mini-vacation you can get. Even though you might not be too excited about the thought of packing enough necessities for your entire family to “survive” a day or two in the wilderness, you will be glad once you are there that you did the work. That’s the only investment in camping â€" the labor. The memories you will take away from the experience will be forever imprinted on your kids’ hearts. Pretty good return, huh?.

4. Do a project together. Kids love to put things together, make things by hand, and experience new things. Why not do it together? The bonding that comes from creating something together is powerful and so fun. Dads, put a model airplane together with your son. Moms, scrapbook a family album with your daughter. Better yet, parents â€"plant a small garden and nurture something living with your kids. The appreciation your kids will gain for you and your time investment will last forever.

5. Go on a treasure hunt together. This is one of our favorites â€" go to yard sales or thrift stores together on a “treasure hunt.” Choose what you are on the hunt for, like books, collectibles, or games, and get excited with your kids when they find their $1 treasure. It’s a lot of fun, and just costs a dollar.

These are just a few simple ideas to encourage quality time spent with your kids, without breaking the budget. Do you have other easy ideas for doing something fun in Katy with your kids on the cheap? Tell us, we’d love to learn more about this.

From Enjoying Fresh Foods to Being Surrounded by Nature, Katy is Ready for a New Season

We were an excited bunch when the temperatures started rising a little over a week ago, and hit the toasty 70s here in southeast Texas. We didn’t need a weatherman to tell us that we could go outside and move our winterized bodies, warming ourselves in the fresh air and spring breeze. In the last few days, we’ve danced at the park, planted our first spring flowers and veggies, and started the grillin’ get-togethers.  The Blancos are a family that lives outside, and this is our favorite time of year.

With the desire to run in the sunshine comes the appetite for all things fresh, and we’ve been whipping up light dinnertime fare. Sandwiches, fresh fruit, pasta salad, and veggie trays with dip. Yuuuumm, always a winner with the kids!

We especially love our fruit. It is how we get our sugar kicks now, and the occasional whipped topping cap makes for an even sweeter treat! Our favorites are blueberries, pineapple, citrus and strawberries.  This is the kind of sugar God intended us to enjoy, and that we do. We’re going to try growing blueberry plants this year â€" it is our first time with those, and we’re hoping for a great crop.

The birds are out, and letting us know. Sophi, our three-year-old, was feeding chips to a blackbird in the parking lot today. The minute she said, “Here, birdie!” and threw him a chip, a dozen more “birdies” were instantly there, almost swarming her for the chips! She was thrilled with their reaction, and began creating competition between those poor birds, throwing one chip at a time to see who would "win" the chip.

The snakes are out, too, so be careful as you dig around and prep your gardens. I’ve seen two baby vipers now, and because of my ignorant close call last year with the mini-water moccasin that I thought was a garden snake, I’ve been much more watchful! They are warmed up and ready to hunt, so be aware.

Exercise comes easier in the spring, doesn’t it? The days are a little longer, and the warmth brings a new desire to move and “have our being.” What are you doing to exercise more intentionally with your family this spring? Share your simple, everyday ideas with us, so that we can take advantage of these beautiful days together.

Keeping It Clean In Katy

The key to keeping a house clean is not to perform a large cleaning job every so often. It is doing a little, all the time, and is well worth the “trouble.” If stains, dirt, and other offenders are left to build up over time, the cleanup becomes overwhelming and unpleasant. Here are five easy tips to try at home:

Follow these ideas, and you’re house will look like you hired a cleaning lady.  Remember, pre-treat, pre-clean, and pre-plan. When these three things are followed on a consistent basis, success will show in your home.

Do you have any tips or ideas that have worked for you in keeping your Katy house clean? Please share them with us!   Â

Fun Ways to Burn Calories This Spring

With spring hinting at us around the corner here in Katy, the neighborhoods are beginning to look alive again. People are out in their yards, cleaning up the garden beds, and washing the cars. All of these activities are necessary to keep our hearts pumping, blood moving, and calories burning.

Did you know that gardening and yard work count as exercise? So does washing the car, cleaning the house, and rough-housing with your kids.  Yes, according to the experts at Diet.com and Harvard Medical School, here are the calories you can burn by doing these everyday activities:

These are all healthful things to do â€" and not just for your physical needs. Doing any of these activities as a family will strengthen your relationships, promote bonding, and teach youngsters responsibility! All around, they are great everyday things to pursue, not just for the honey-do list either, but for overall health.

What about your family? Does the warm weather invite you outside to stretch your ligaments, move your bodies, and spend time in the sun together? Tell us what you like to do in Katy to burn the calories off.

Discovering the Health Benefits of a Favorite Sweet

When my family and I first embarked on our sugar-freeing journey a few weeks ago, we thought we were kissing all goodies goodbye. Most “junk food” sweets contain over 20 grams of sugar per serving, and since our new daily quota is 15 grams of sugar, we can no longer dabble in the confections of our former sugar-filled days. How relieved we were to find that we can still have chocolate, and some baked goodies, without the guilt and shame of “cheating” ourselves.

After some passionate research, we found that dark chocolate is not only permissive in our new restrictive lifestyle, but also good for us in many ways. So we have been happily experimenting with different brands and percentages of chocolate bars to bring you the latest Blanco family findings in the best chocolate on a low-sugar diet.

Our personal favorites so far are:

Juan (Daddy) â€" Lindt Excellence Smooth Dark 85% Cocoa â€" 5g sugar per serving (four squares)

Bess (Mom) â€" Lindt Excellence 70% Smooth Dark Cocoa â€" 12g sugar per serving (four squares)

Kids â€" All brands, all percentages! Except for GiGi and Sophie, who find the 85% cocoa too bitter.

We usually only eat about 1-2 squares, since they are so rich, and each square is 1 ½ inches â€" it’s plenty to satisfy the craving.  We also really enjoy Cote D’ Or and Godiva brand 70% dark chocolate.

All of these chocolates are rich in flavanoids, which act as antioxidants and work to lower blood pressure and cholesterol in the body. Did you know that dark chocolate contains eight times the antioxidants found in strawberries? All the more reason to have chocolate-covered strawberries as a treat now! Chocolate also stimulates our endorphin production, making us feel pleasure (duh, right?!) and contains serotonin, which is our built-in anti-depressant.

It is safe to have a small amount everyday, as dark chocolate is made from plants and is a natural product. As with anything else, remember to use moderation, and small servings is the key.  Be careful to read the labels, make sure it is the low sugar, natural type of chocolate you are purchasing. Too many good reasons to abstain from that piece of deliciousness any longer â€" go ahead, have a chocolate today!

What about you? What are your favorite dark chocolate treats?

Enjoy This Simple Recipe and Kick Off Spring

One of the things I love most about living in Katy is the wide array of cultures we have located right here! We have met and made friends with people from all over: Colombia, Brazil, Phillippines, Mexico, Venezuela, Africa, Haiti, Peru, India, Afghanistan…We love learning about their culture, as well as sharing with them what we love about ours.  One of the things I love best about my friend’s cultures is tasting their delightful foods! Here is a recipe for you to enjoy at home â€" to you, from Colombia.

With warmer weather approaching, light fares and easy dinners are on the family appetite radar. This easy, low-sugar recipe from my friend Maggie combines fresh, colorful ingredients and delightful Latino taste.

Recipe: 1 med-large avocado 2 med tomatoes 1 large onion small bunch cilantro (1/4 cup) 1 cup light orange juice 1/4 cup reduced-sugar tomato ketchup 3 small limes 1 lemon 1 lb medium to large cooked shrimp salt and hot sauce (salsa) to taste

Dice all veggies and shrimp, squeeze limes and lemon into mix, stir all ingredients together. Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours before serving, so all flavors blend together.

Produces six cups of cocktail, and for each cup serving there is only four grams of sugar (including vegetable sugars) and under two grams of carbs. There is, however, tons of fiber and potassium in the avocado and tomatoes, and plenty of flavor to make it all worth it! We usually eat this with soda crackers, which only adds a couple grams of carbs. Enjoy this low-fat, low-sugar, and low-carb recipe â€" then let me know what you think!

A Thoughtful Katy Resident Makes a Family’s Day!

We call Lacey our miracle puppy. Our family has loved this dog since the summer of 2009, and she is officially a member of the Blanco family. She was a treasure to find and has been a blessing to keep, but those aren’t the real reasons she’s our miracle.

Last month, she was not wearing a collar and nametag, and she did the inevitable. She ran out while one of us was putting out the trash, and none of us noticed. We didn’t notice the rest of the night that she was gone, either. We didn’t even notice the next morning (a Saturday) until Daddy asked us where she was. After calling for her and whistling (which usually brings her bounding to us within a few seconds) we began to realize with horror that she was gone. I began to panic as I realized the reality of the situation. It had been a hard freeze the night before, and I hadn’t even noticed my puppy was gone! Because she was not wearing a tag, if someone did find her, they couldn’t call!

I was in tears by the time my son Jovanni and I were driving the neighborhood in the mini-van. I was an emotional mess, due to my sadness, panic, and tremendous guilt that I hadn’t even noticed she was missing the night before. After a few moments of trying to console me, my mature son straightened up in the passenger seat and declared, “OK, Mom, you can cry. I’m gonna pray that God helps us find her.”

That’s exactly what he did. He prayed a heartfelt, passionate prayer in full belief that God would honor his request. Then he told me, “Mom, let’s go back home, I feel like she’s close to our house.” I kept quiet, but obediently turned the van around, all while mentally picturing my Yorkie, dead, in one of the neighborhood bayous.

Jovanni and his sister Isabella took off on their bikes, stopping and knocking on every door close to our house, while I made a “wanted” poster with my puppy’s picture on it. I began to tape it up to the street poles, stop signs, and mail boxes in our neighborhood. Three cul-de-sacs down from our house, as I was taping up a sign, I heard a shrill bark form the garage of the house right in front of me. Could that be Lacey? No, I must be imagining it! I called out, and whistled. Now she really started making noise!

That kind lady had put Lacey up for the frozen night in her garage, but now willingly gave her back to me. I took my shaken puppy home, and yelled for Jovanni and Isabella to come see. The prodigal puppy was found, and as we tousled and played with our baby again, I gazed with pride on my son. He looked at me, grinning, and now I cried healthy tears in appreciation for a son who acted in faith.

Moments like these bring a fresh appreciation to us for the privilege of living here in Katy. Our neighbors are the best, and even though I don’t know that lady’s name, I thank her for being that thoughtful to protect our puppy from the freeze. It’s good to live in a Katy neighborhood!

Tip to De-clutter Your Home

It is time, Katy families, for more organization and less mess! It’s time to move out the “stuff” that is just taking up valuable room, and clear the clutter for a more effective home. How to do it, you ask? Here are 9 things you can get rid of by throwing or giving away, and not feel guilty about it. Your pantry and closets will thank you for it when you’re done. Take twenty minutes now and clear some clutter!

1. Kitchen Utensils â€" These gather quickly, and seem to breed in your already overcrowded kitchen drawers! This will take all of two minutes â€" sort out any that are damaged, rusted, burnt or haven’t been used in over a year â€" those get thrown out or placed in your give-away bin. You’re done!

2. Coffee cups â€" Yes, New York City was a fun vacation, but you don’t need ten cups from Long Island to remember it! Keep only enough coffee cups to fit in one cupboard, bottom two shelves (if you can’t reach the top shelf without a ladder.) Twenty should do the trick, any more is overkill, and they need to be disposed of. That should take two minutes.

3. Storage Containers â€" These are nice to have, but if you have any shriveled, burnt, or damaged storage containers, they need to be thrown out. If necessary, invest (at very little cost) in a new set of stackable, fitting containers â€" they are worth every penny â€" and they match! Oh, and that empty, washed cottage cheese container should also go. Two more minutes used up.

4. Outdated spices, medicines, and canned foods â€" These are not only taking up room in a wasteful fashion, but they can also cause harm. Food and medicines past the due date are dangerous to your family’s health, and old spices are just that â€" old. Toss them out! That took five minutes.

5. Receipts â€" You have been hanging on to these little pieces of paper WAY too long! Chances are, you have a bank or credit card statement somewhere to back the transaction up if remembering it is really important. For large purchases, file the receipt in a “large purchase receipts” folder in your filing system. Toss the rest…two minutes down.

6. Magazines â€" Time to gather up and get rid of all your dated reading. Nursing homes, schools and other organizations would be able to re-use those old magazines. Or just drop them in the recycle bin â€" this takes just another minute and a half!

7. VHS Tapes â€" You won’t miss these, I promise. They are too bulky, and you don’t know where half of them are anyway. Toss them or give them to the thrift store â€" one point five minutes used.

8. Old Books â€" If you’re like me, your books are like family. We both know, however, that unless they are reference material, or a valuable collection, they could probably be passed on. You could sell them on Amazon, at a yard sale, or give them to a charity, but don’t toss them yet â€" someone else could be enjoying them! This will take all of two minutes.

9. Outgrown clothes – It’s time to let go of those size “blank” outfits that haven’t been worn in years. They could be doing some good at the local charity thrift store â€" or, if they are really nice, you might net a few bucks at your yard sale. Are the kids’ closets full of too-small clothes hanging in their closet? Time to move them on out! Two more minutes spent.

Now, that wasn’t too bad, was it? Twenty minutes, give or take think time, and you’ve just gotten a huge head-start on spring cleaning!

Tell me what you think. Was this a helpful article? What tips do you have for us on de-cluttering, cleaning out and home organization?

An Update on New Year's Resolutions

The last three weeks of being on a low-sugar lifestyle change have been eye-opening, to say the least! Saying no to the old way of eating (mindlessly, mostly) and bringing in the new way (completely, constantly mindful) is not easy. It’s even more difficult when feeding four snack-addicted youngsters, and to further complicate the transition, we’re doing it all on a tight budget! Well, at least we’re figuring out that it can be done.

It has taken a large amount of creativity, little dose of patience, and a well-deserved and strategically planned cheat or two to make something like this work for the whole family. For example, tonight my thoughtful husband got us out of the house and over to McDonald’s, one of our family’s favorite haunts “pre-low-sugar diet.” I had a sugar-free cappuccino, which curtailed my annoying sweet tooth, and the girls and I shared frozen yogurt sundaes. Not too much damage done, while my growing obsession with something sweet is quenched.

Gigi, my six-year-old bread lover, still gets to eat her carbs, just less of them. She is finding the transition smoother than she first thought it would be when she stood horrified as I threw all the “crap” that was in the pantry into the trash three weeks ago! She is relieved that I am finding creative solutions to meet her bottomless need for all things carbohydrates, even as I sneak more protein into her previously sugar-infested diet.

The variety in our diet as a family has not been eliminated; in fact, we are finding that we are getting more creative with the foods we are allowed to eat. We eat more “colorful” food now, beautifully full salads and soups, loaded with such delicacies as avocado, cheeses in all forms, and crisp, fresh nuts. I was also so happy to get guiltless permission to enjoy my occasional bacon again, and the once a week red meat serving in the form of a juicy steak is always a pleasure!

So as we enter our fourth week as a low-sugar, low-carb eating family, we have renewed commitment and an excited expectation as our waists are shrinking and our energy levels increasing. No more rise and fall all day long, of sugar levels and emotions! More stability, less irregularity. We can do this!

What about your Katy family? Are you pursuing a new health regimen for your family? I’d love to hear about it!

Five Whine-Busting Secrets Revealed!

For most of us moms, chores are something we dread. I haven’t met a Katy mom yet who looks forward to folding laundry, washing dishes, or cleaning the bathrooms. If you’re that mom, you can stop reading this article, you don’t need to waste your time! This piece is for those moms who do their best to clean up the messes, take care of the daily routine tasks, but often find themselves alone in the process. If this is you, read on, there is hope for help!

Here are five easy ways to get your kids to help with the cleanup of everyday living â€" after all, who made the messes, dirtied the clothes, and left the peanut butter jar out anyway?

1. Offer a fun reward. Even folding the clean washcloths is more motivating with the promise of something fun attached. Utilize rewards that are free for you, but make great bargaining tools, such as; a half-hour of child’s favorite show, reading time with you cuddled up on the couch, a 10-minute back rub, pudding!

2. Do it together â€" team up. When you are working as a team, the work seems like less, and the chore time goes by quicker. It’s not so overwhelming to a child to put away the dishes out of the dishwasher if you are right there near them, chopping onions for dinner. They feel like part of the family team when all members are working together on a chore, instead of a scenario where mom is flipping the TV channels while little Joey is mopping the kitchen!

3. Remind, remind, remind without the nag, nag, nag! It is too easy to nag our children, especially as they get older, and as our expectations of them are increased. I like to use the word “remind,” as it sounds more politically correct to your child! It doesn’t seem to raise the “nag flag” in them, and, in turn, their defenses! For example, “Honey, I just wanted to remind you that today is Tuesday, and it’s your turn to take out the trash!”

4. Lead by example. As much as we parents might not want them to, our children do as they see us do! Our example speaks so much louder than any words or explanation we might use. Younger children are really good at pointing this out, too, as my three-year-old daughter has been reminding me lately. “Slow down, Mom!” She warns me urgently from her car seat in the back. “Be careful!” No matter what I might be currently instructing my twelve-year-old son about safe driving practices, my current driving skills show the truth about what I hold in importance. The same goes for household chores and the cleanliness standards we hold ourselves to. There is no use in projecting a standard on our children that we will not hold ourselves to!

5. Flattery is key. Really, flattery? Yes, praising your child is very helpful when you are trying to achieve compliance in the form of labor out of him! Of course, I’m talking about the type of “flattery” that is actually relatable to your child and is used to build self-esteem. For instance, it still works on my son (at twelve) to tell him I need “my handsome son’s help for a minute!” Or, in my nine-year-old daughter’s case, I tell her I would love if she helped to bathe her baby sister, because “she’s so good at being the big sister!” I mean the things I’m saying to them, and it’s good to vocalize such esteem building words to my children! Plus, it usually works!

I’ll admit, these methods are not by-the-book, but then, I’ve never been that kind of parent. I’m more of a tried-and-true type, and these simple ideas do work!

What about you, Katy mom? Do you have any great suggestions for us in getting more help from our kids around the house? Let’s hear them!

Making the Most of your Family's Favorite Room

If your house is anything like ours, the kitchen is the family gathering place in the home. It is the conference room, eatery, comfort space, and homework central all rolled into one room. Although this is a good thing for familial relationships, it can often become a problem area for clutter and mess. Here are five simple ways to de-clutter the space, and restore order and function back to your Katy kitchen.

1.      Keep the paper piles out â€" Put together a letter sorter or binder for your family paper flow; mail, school handouts, and menus – to keep them organized and off the countertops.  Just keeping the paper piles out of sight eliminates clutter and streamlines the function of the kitchen. (You can find more details on streamlining your family paper flow in an upcoming piece.)

2.      Hide small appliances behind closed doors – The only appliances that should be visible are the ones you use every day, like the coffeemaker, for instance. Otherwise, place them in cupboards or the pantry, where they are easy to grab for the next use, but don’t add to the clutter in your living space.

3.      Organize daily use items in easy to reach areas â€" What items do you use daily, maybe even several times a day? These should be easy to reach for use, and easy to put away. A tray near your stove works well for those items you use to cook with every day, for instance, salt and pepper. Utensils for stirring and turning can be placed in a convenient holder near the cooking area as well. Knives and cutting boards should be within easy reach of the food prep station in your kitchen. It will save time and mess to have these items available, but kept organized for use.

4.        Remove non-kitchen items â€" for good! â€" Just making a conscience effort to organize handbags, keys, and school bags in another place besides the kitchen will greatly reduce the amount of clutter that builds up. If hairbrushes, cell phones and school supplies are all plopped into the kitchen area by habit, they build up into mounds of items that don’t belong.

5.        Cut back the décor â€" All of us cooks love our little pretties â€" figurines, plants, candles, plaques, you name it, we’ve got them in our kitchen! Some have too many â€" and by cutting back on the amount that are out on display, the kitchen will look cleaner and clutter-free. If you follow a standard, like one item (décor or working item) per two feet of counter space, you will achieve a cleaner appearance.

If you would love to have a cleaner, more organized Katy kitchen, but don’t feel you have the time necessary to achieve it, then, you will love these easy steps. Take fifteen minutes out of your day to try these quick ideas, and your family will thank you!

Four Tips on How To Manage Your Work Duties

As I write this, my pre-teen son is hassling me for a snack â€" he just arrived home from school with an empty stomach, and caught me in the middle of “work.” Working at home is an on-going challenge to the life balance for sure, especially when there are children living in that same home. It is specifically difficult to stay focused on the job at hand and the direction of a business when said children are present and hungry!

In all seriousness, though, work from home professionals are always on the prowl for advice on balancing work duties and family, as my situation currently reminds me. Here are four tips to keeping a strong focus on your home business, in spite of your circumstances:

1.      REVIEW your priorities, REVISE your plan. Sit down, scratch out a priority list for your business this year; what do you want to achieve in productive activity? In profit? In growth? Now, examine your personal priorities: How important is family time to you? What reasons motivated you to decide to work from home in the first place? Was it the desire to hands-on parent more? As you look at your business priorities in comparison to your personal ones, make sure they interact appropriately. For instance, if your business goal is to grow by 25% in sales, you may need to output at least double that much in effort to produce those results. That means less time available for other things, which could translate into less family time or attention. Is the family on board with this decision, and capable of handling it? This is just a brief idea of what needs to be laid on the table as a business owner, and family manager. As your own experience with business and family needs are unique, and specific to you, the solution for finding a determined direction and plan will also need to be customized. The point is to make a plan, and go from there.

2.      DECIDE – Focus on the plan no matter what. Distractions can be detrimental to your business, and I’m not talking about your children interrupting you! Too many ideas, information overload, draining clients; these are all very real and troublesome distractions to your focus. What it really boils down to is making a decision: a decision that you are going to achieve your goals for your business no matter what. We all wish it was easier than that, that there is a magic formula, easy trick or miraculous event to get us from the idea to the result, but there isn’t! Once that decision to focus on your plan has been made, other good decisions follow which lead to small successes, which lead to more successes, and then one day, you stop for a minute and look at your business and realize you are succeeding!

3. STOP making excuses for why you can’t. There will be times when you will disappoint someone, either in your business or in your personal life. This is unavoidable, because you cannot please everyone all the time. What you can take responsibility for, however, DO. If there is a way to meet with your client AND make it to Billy’s game, then make it happen. Making excuses for why you can’t do something or fulfill a responsibility will take the positive focus off your performance, and put it in a negative light on the person, which is never a good thing.

4. NEVER Give up. Sometimes you do everything in your power to stay focused and achieve results, but life gets in the way. It happens to everyone at one time or another, the key is to keep focused on the purpose of your business. If the purpose is still there, the focus has not really been lost, just shifted for a little while. While you can’t keep hindrances from occurring, you can keep the goal in center vision. Never give up on your goal.

Although distractions may come and complete concentration may go, you can keep a central path cleared on your way to achieving success in your home business. Just use these four easy tips to re-focus on that goal, take a deep breath, and plunge back in to the daily routine. And don’t forget to smile the next time you are interrupted by someone needing a snack!    Â

Lessons Learned, Memories Made and New Dreams Cast

In all of the excitement of the New Year and all the looking ahead we do, I wonder if we sometimes forget to look back. Not for long, I mean, but just a glimpse, almost like a life review. I’ve done that this year; maybe because it was such a good, full year in 2010, and I don’t want to close the proverbial door on it until I’ve grasped every bit of what I was supposed to take away from it.

I’ve realized recently (like earlier today!) that I had a meaningful and enriching year of life in 2010. My family and I experienced many things here in Texas we never expected we would when we were still living life back in the desert southwest. Like playing at the ocean, not just once, but over and over! We mowed a lawn all year long. The kids have seen alligators, cottonmouths, and the world’s largest water park. Oh, and the friendships we’ve developed here in Katy are really unbelievable to me. In the one year we’ve been in Katy, we’ve bonded with some great people in ways I’ve never experienced before. You know, they are friends who are like comfy slippers â€" they fit perfectly, and they don’t mind being stepped on every once in a while!

Not that those things are what life is all about, but it really helps to live life surrounded by warmth. Good days are bathed in sunshine, love from family and friends, and really good cookin’!

So, one of the lessons I learned was to stretch a little more in life, even if where I’m at feels comfortable. It never hurts to try something new, go somewhere I’ve never been, or make a new friend in a person I’d have never thought could feel like a sister! In the career area, I learned that I don’t make a good working-outside-the-home mom and it’s ok. I make a really great work-at-home-mom, and the kids and hubby are so glad I figured that out! I also decided I am a well-rounded person, but don’t like being a “round” person, and I am pursuing health in a new way in 2011!

So as I walk through the doorway from 2010 and step over the threshold of 2011 into newness, I carry the treasures of my memories and lessons learned with me. They will be cherished, revisited, and inevitably recycled into new ones! I have nothing but the best expectations for this brand new year in front of me. I’ll do some things right, and probably lots of things wrong, but the dreams that I’ve dreamed for 2011 will be pursued, and I am, and will be, blessed!

What about you – what are your feelings on beginning 2011? Are you excited about something new in your life this year? Tell me about it, I’d love to share in your enthusiasm!

Breaking the Cycle Can Help You Feel Good

Frankly, I am shocked at my “progress” with this brand new health and lifestyle change my family and I have implemented this year. I emphasize the word progress because the scale doesn’t say anything different than last year’s weight yet. The clothes I yearn to try on without popping the front button off don’t fit me â€" yet. No, nothing has visibly changed as of now. On the outside, that is. Inside, however, there is change â€" and it’s good!

We began a low sugar, carb counting regimen early last week, and we are already noticing substantial improvement in energy and sleeping habits. Right before I began this plan, I was not sleeping much at all, averaging just four or five hours a night, due to a busy mind, and restlessness. I also was dragging all day, napping at least three days a week, and always off balance in the “regularity area!” The funny thing was, I wasn’t concerned about any of these symptoms, or how to improve them, because I had gotten so used to them and was assuming they were the norm!

So when we cut our sugar intake down to 15 grams a day, and carbs down to six or less servings a day (a serving is 0-20 grams per helping), we thought we would have withdrawal or something. Nope, nothing. Not even a headache! The tiredness and drag disappeared almost immediately (maybe two days in?), I have no bloating, gassiness or any other digestive malady (I had forgotten what it is like to “go” normally!)  I’m sleeping like a baby every night, getting up with alertness (that’s before my coffee!) and going all day, no dragging or napping. It’s weird, feeling this good, I feel young again! I had heard that saying before, but never really knew how much it meant until now!

I have also been exercising â€" and if you really know me, you know that I DESPISE exercising! So, what I told myself was, if I just do something active for twenty minutes or more every day, then I could do it.  I couldn’t just come out of the resolution gate “working out” three times a week, I had to convince myself just to get up, get out, and move for a few minutes every day, and it would be better than nothing! So the first day, I rode bicycles with my kids around the block a couple times, the next day, I walked fast for 20 minutes with my husband, and by the third day, while walking with my friend, I was starting to get excited. I could do this exercise thing! We pounded the pavement for an hour, and I didn’t even realize it!

So, I am on the road to improvement, 20minutes at a time. 15 grams of sugar at a time. One day at a time. That’s the moral of the story, really â€" just start some kind of an improvement, any improvement, and take it one step at a time! That will put you on the road to success, and that’s a road we all can travel in 2011!

What about you? Are you tackling a healthy new lifestyle too? Tell us what you’re trying, and how you’re feeling! We want to share in your successes (and maybe bumps in the road!) with you!

Six Simple Ideas

For those of us who work from home, whether part or full-time, the quality of our workspace has a real impact on productivity. We can make do with a card table in the corner of the living room for a while, or pop open the laptop on the kitchen table to “clock in.” If you plan on working from home for a substantial period of time, however, establishing a pleasant and professional workspace is a must. Here are some simple ideas to create a permanent workspace that produces creativity and consistency.

1.       Designate an area away from hub of family activity â€" In our house, the kitchen is where we spend 75% of our family time, so a corner desk in there for a home office would not be conducive to productive activity! Late last year, I convinced my husband to surrender the formal dining room, and begrudgingly, he gave in. My home office presently sits in the room opposite the kitchen and family area, separated by a wall, but still with easy access to those rooms through a back-entryway. Now I am just steps away from the kitchen table, where I can supervise homework and other activities, but have the privacy of my own workspace at the same time.

2.      Keep the area clean and de-cluttered â€" If an item in the workspace is unnecessary to the work you are doing in that home office, then it should be removed from the area. If the area is kept clean and clutter is kept out, the activity in that workspace will continue to be productive, paying work. If the office becomes the family’s dumping grounds or the baby’s newest toy box, chances are productivity will be affected.

3.      Keep it family-friendly, but not family-central â€" This one can be tough, especially if you have multiple little ones. The idea is to welcome your family into your space, especially if you work full-time from home, but ultimately, they may tend to make themselves too much “at home” while you are “at work!” One idea is to take several breaks during work time to give them attention and care, then “clock back in.” Another method might be to involve them in what you are doing. If they are older children, they might even like to “work” with you; stamping/labeling envelopes, filing, stocking supplies, etc. In the last few weeks, I’ve begun teaching my nine-year-old daughter how to type properly so that she can “work” as a transcriber for me. She’s excited to be a part of my work and is learning a valuable skill for her own future in the meantime.

4.      Surround yourself with things you love â€" Put up framed pictures of your family, friends, pets, etc. to brighten your workspace and prepare you mentally to work! Surrounding yourself with things that stimulate positive, productive feelings in you will pay off in your profitability. A couple of meaningful quotes are always a good addition, for some, it’s a unique pen or figurine. My personal favorite object sitting in my office is my puppy, a Chihuahua/Yorkie mix, who believes her main job requirement is to warm my feet while I work!

5.      Keep temperature stable and comfortable â€" If possible, keep the temperature in your home office pleasant and consistent. It is imperative that you be comfortable to be productive! If you are too cold or too hot, you won’t be as motivated, and you’ll easily become sleepy. Though this may sound like too simple an idea, temperature is an important factor in determining where you set up your home office.

6.      Create an atmosphere of productivity â€" This can be very easy to do; play your favorite music while you work, at the volume you prefer. I personally recommend internet sites like Pandora for a free customizable radio station with very little advertising. If you get up from your computer to take a break, the station automatically pauses after a few minutes to preserve your free play time. Another simple way to create the ambiance is ensure plenty of lighting. Keeping healthy munchies and your favorite beverage readily available also adds to the atmosphere. You’ll be more productive on a comfortable full stomach than if all you can think about is lunch break!

All of these important, but easy-to-do ideas will assist you in creating a home office that promotes your creativity and self-discipline, furthering your success as a work-at-home professional.

Do you work from home in the Katy area? What are some ideas that you have learned along the way to keep your home office comfortable, and family happy at the same time? Share with us your thoughts!

Katyite Offers Tips to Get a Jump on Spring Cleaning

It’s a new year again, and time for a fresh start in your home office. Take a look around your work area: is it clean and organized? Or, like many other home offices, is it in dire need of streamlining? What many career professionals working from home have found is that it is not as hard to keep systems, like a paper flow filing system, in place. It is the initial setup that can be overwhelming. Here are some easy steps to take to tackle the daily influx of paper and mail that inevitably stack up at the end of the day. Once you implement these five tips, you’ll eliminate the stress and mess that come with the piles, and have a system in place for a smooth working year of paper-pile freedom.

1.     Have an action system in place for the first look â€" Do you already have an In/Out box that is overflowing onto your desk with the kids’ school papers, or junk mail? A smart, stylish three-part filing rack, on the desk, or hung crisply on your office wall is a great solution. A convenient label should designate what file is for which function: To Read, To File, To Do. Of course, this can be customized for your specific filing need (i.e. Data Input, Reports to Send, etc.) Keep to the “one time” rule, once that paper touches your hands, it must be filed into one of those slots, to prevent “shuffling” and unnecessary stress.

2.      Begin using a single notebook for notes, reminders, drafts, etc. â€" Quickly rid your work space of unsightly paper scraps, post-its, and other distracting methods by consolidating all of them into one area, a medium to large notebook, designated solely for your desk. A trainer once taught me to put all notes in one notebook, like notes during phone calls, to-do lists, even post-its, to have within easy reach in one place later. Now I can’t live without my notebook, and I rarely ever lose information anymore!

3.      Create a simplified filing system to encourage filing consistency â€" For example, for a family filing system, each person in the family gets a hanging file folder with several  different manila folders â€" Personal Papers, School, Medical Info, etc. Chances are, with a simple system in place, the papers leaving the “To File” box, will go straight into the correct place, and take no time, every time. If the system is hard to understand, or is redundant or complicated, papers will pile up because the dread of filing is too much!

4.      Do it daily â€" I know, I know, you didn’t choose to read this article just to be told this! However, if the daily amount of papers is dealt with on a daily basis, it will only build to that level. If it is left to pile, it will grow â€" exponentially!

5.      Go paperless on as much mail as possible â€" This is getting easier to accomplish, as more companies are streamlining their own systems, and facilitating paperless statements, bills, etc. When the junk mail does come in, shred it that day. Those pieces of paper should never make it to the “To Read” bin!

So, these methods, simple as they sound, go a long way in preserving your work surface, and sanity, as you work to success in 2011!

Create New Traditions This Holiday Season

Is all this talk of traditions, warm family holidays and fun activities with your kids this Christmas getting you in the spirit of the season? Or is it causing your spirits to get flustered and overwhelmed, adding more to your already-jam-packed holiday calendar? Well, don’t stress, here are 6 very simple ideas that are fun, memorable and affordable. You can easily squeeze them in and around everything else going on, especially once school is out and tests, homework and lunch preparation is over for a couple of weeks!

1.      Build a gingerbread house with your kids â€" The kits they have now are the best invention! For around $10 at any craft store, everything you need to plaster, decorate and then eat the gingerbread house is included in the kit! I found this year that the gingerbread boy cookie kit was even better, because each child decorates their own cookie, then eats it the way they want, with no fighting or yelling, “No, I wanted to eat the roof!” This simple tradition literally takes about thirty minutes, and cleanup is minimal, but my kids look forward to it every year.

2.      Hang and fill each other’s stockings â€" My husband and I have been filling each other’s Christmas stockings for as long as I can remember, and it is one of my favorite parts of Christmas morning. The cost is very little, since the items we load up the stockings with are favorite candies, lotions, lip gloss, maybe a cd and a book. For the kids, we always raid the dollar section at Target, and they are thrilled with small tablets to write on, fun makeup to play with, dress up jewelry, and more goodies from each other. This year was extra fun, as they were able to shop for each other at their schools, and no one but them knows what small gifts they purchased for us and each other! Keep in mind, the key is to stuff the stockings on Christmas Eve, not before!

3.      Cookie exchange bake–off â€" Get together with a few friends, pick a house, and each participant bake at least one variety of their favorite holiday cookie or treat! It is so much fun to hang out, drink hot cocoa and talk and laugh too much, then take a plate of assorted home baked goodies to your family, or maybe even a lonely neighbor.

4.      Go caroling at an assisted-living home â€" I work at a home here in Katy for the elderly with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Those “nana’s and papa’s” as I call them, love to have company, especially children! Caroling takes all of an hour or so out of your holiday season, but the pleasure and fulfillment you and your kids would get out of giving back to our elderly is worth every minute! And it’s free!

5.      Attend a holiday church service â€" Katy is blessed with many different churches, offering a large array of services and holiday celebrations. Every family loves the tradition of stopping for an hour or so, and giving time to the real Reason for the Season. My family and I have been impressed with the sheer beauty of the decorations and atmosphere in assorted churches in the Katy area, and the hospitality of the people in them!

6.      Host a family at your holiday dinner table â€" My family and I have learned over the years to embrace and learn about other people in the world. One of the things we love most about Katy is the vast number of different ethnicities and cultures in our town. Why not open up your home and invite a family or individual who might not have a family nearby to share your holiday dinner with you? We shared Thanksgiving dinner with someone we had recently met, and since then, we have become fast friends. It’s also a good opportunity to try other foods and ways of eating! The kids enjoy the opportunity to broaden their young minds on being hospitable and appreciative of other cultures.

There are many ways to begin new traditions with your family, or keep treasured generational ones that are passed down over the years. Either way, the idea is to keep it simple and enjoy these holidays with those who matter most, your loved ones!

Help Create Special Memories with Loved Ones This Holiday Season

Growing up, my family didn’t have too many traditions, especially around the holidays. I can remember a couple that were special, and they were observed when the funds were available, but my childhood was not full of warm traditions. Part of the reason was the strict religious beliefs my parents held, and part was my mother’s stand that “things shouldn’t hold value.”

In my adult years, and especially as a parent, I have taken a different approach to creating traditions; one of joyful memories, warm lessons, and delightful keepsakes. I hope the balance I have found between overcompensating and appreciating traditions is one that blesses my children in their years to come. Here in Katy, we’ve already started forming new holiday family traditions, weaving in the Texas way of celebrating with our native Hispanic customs.

Here are a few reasons I have found to make and observe traditions in my family:

1. Everyone needs something to look forward to â€" What a fun reason to continue or create new traditions for the family; to have something great to look forward to. We get very few true holidays during the year, why not make them memorable and full of rich rewards. We all need a little joy in our lives, and the holidays are the perfect time to celebrate our blessings and each other.

2. Keeps the focus off the busyness of the season and on the rewards instead â€" The holidays can get hectic, hairy and no fun real fast in our society; a good idea is keeping first things first. Family, friends and fellowship are always first. These are the times to reflect on our blessings and let the little things go. Time is the greatest gift in our lives, and our children spell our love as T-I-M-E, not M-O-N-E-Y.

3. Builds bonds, memories and life journeys â€" Our families will not look back and remember what they were given as gifts during the holidays, they will remember the precious moments and experiences they were given during these most valuable times. They will place value on what they see and are taught value is in, and the lasting value of family time in a warm, loving atmosphere is priceless.

4. Creates an appreciation for the blessings in our lives â€" Celebrating special events like the holidays with family traditions will develop a new sense of appreciation in our families. They will come away from the celebration with a new appreciation for not only the traditions, but also refreshed for “normal” life again. After well-spent time with loved ones, our family will be ready to get back to the routine with a fresh take on their gifts of time and relationships.

Specific traditions around the holidays are a priceless gift to give your family, and will create a new sense of belonging in your family members. They will reminisce about the things you did together, dishes they ate, and funny stories they enjoyed for years to come.

What are your family traditions around the holidays? Do you find tradition to be important in your Katy household? Do you celebrate the same way as you did growing up, or have you found new traditions for your family?

Katy Mom Offers up Some of Her Family's Favorite Activities

Just because it is cold outside doesn’t mean the kids have to stay shut up in the house, whining about “nothing to do!” Instead of sending them with a toothbrush to clean the tile grout at their first complaint of boredom, why not beat them to it with these 11 activity ideas?

1.      Drive around looking at Christmas decorations/lights â€" My kids love this one, especially if they are snacking on something fun while we do it. We play Christmas music on the radio, snuggle up with blankets in our mini-van, and ooh and aah at the pretty lights, figurines and nativity scenes all over our well-decorated neighborhood. Even if the peace and harmony between siblings sounds too good to be true, give it a try, you’ll have some bonding time with each other without technology and chores getting in the way.

2.      Play at McDonald’s â€" Nothing is easier on the wallet or clock as this one! The McDonald’s restaurants now are so warm, hip and inviting. The kids don’t need a happy meal every trip, just a 50 cent cookie or $1 parfait will do. Our favorite pastime is to let the kids play and squeal their energy away in the indoor play ground while Mom and Dad drink their coffee and talk over their laptops! I get work done and bond with my husband, all while the kids hang out for an hour at one of their favorite places.

3.      Read, read, and read some more! Nothing costs less than reading to your kids, but will form a heart bond that lasts forever. My six-year-old, Gigi, loves to read to the family as we fix dinner, bathe little sister, and fold laundry. She makes cute voices, and intonates to deliver fun involvement in the book. My nine-year-old, Bella, loves to read to her younger sisters, who sit quietly, smiling at the story. Read as a family, read as individuals, or even have a family reading contest; whatever it takes to get your kids involved in this affordable and very rewarding pastime.

4.      Make some crafts together for gifts for others, or just for yourselves! â€" This is a cozy, bonding experience that is simple to do, and low-cost to the checkbook. Crocheting, needlework, knitting and scrapbooking are our favorites. It is always fun to scrapbook some summer memories together, as it transports us back to summer and the activities of the trips to the beach, camping, and going on vacation. How fun to recount how it rained us out on our first camping trip, and how sun burnt we were on the beach, and how funny the puppy looked soaking wet…we start feeling warmer immediately.

5.      Family game night â€" This can be fun, and consists of no more investment than pulling out the old classics: Boggle, chess, Scrabble â€" all the goodies that exercise our sluggish winter brains. It’s also a great excuse for hot cocoa, popcorn, and candy treats; after all, it is the holidays! Put down the Wii remote for awhile, and enjoy using your mind and smile for board game night.

6.      Get together with friends â€" The winter months are perfect for hanging out with those good friends you never get time to see. Invite them over for a home cooked dinner one night, and catch up in the coziness of your own home. Let the kids all play, and enjoy good company as you put just one more pot of coffee on.

7.      Cook together â€" This is the perfect time of year to be in the kitchen as a family; for once, you want the house to be warm from the oven heat. Teaching the kids how to bread, dice, grate, and chop those veggies, meats and other delights is a healthy bonding experience, and gives kids a chance to take ownership over healthy foods and family favorites. Eating should be a healthy experience anyway, and cooking together, even when the kids are young, leads to priceless memories.

8.      Bake and decorate holiday cookies together – Pick a family you would like to bless, and get the kids excited about making several different kinds of goodies for them. Run to the store together, pick out the fun sprinkles and supplies together, and let them roll, press and decorate to their heart’s content. This is not the time to be neat or perfect, just productive. My kids still talk about the year they made empanadas with their "abuelita" (Spanish for grandma) for the holidays. They treasure that memory, and it didn’t cost us anything.

9. Watch a classic movie â€" My personal favorites are “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Little Women,” but there are so many to choose from. Get a tissue box, grab a cuddly blanket, and squeeze in close to your loved ones for a classic movie or two this winter. If you’re at all like my little ones, you’ll pop up a big batch of popcorn (they’ll look for any excuse for popcorn!) and tune in to a great holiday classic. Now this is what the holidays are about!

10.   Decorate the house together â€" Nothing is more fun than trimming the tree, hanging the stockings and putting up other family treasures together! Even the little ones can be assigned a task, like putting the tree skirt around the tree, or not so neatly wrapping their other sibling’s gifts. There is something everyone can do, and my kids especially love helping with the tree. Our Christmas tree hasn’t looked perfect in a few years now, but the conversations we have over each “special” ornament that was made or received by someone we love are worth the well-loved look!

11.   Don’t forget to play outside â€" There are a few good weather days in Katy during the winter time, and this is a fantastic opportunity to walk to the nearest park, drive to a State park, or just go out in your own yard and enjoy the crisp coolness. Take advantage of the holiday cheer by shouting “Merry Christmas!” or “Happy Holidays!” to your neighbors, as everyone is out and about during this lovely time of year in beautiful Katy, Texas.

What about you? Do you have ideas on how to entertain our kids for no or low-cost this winter? We’d love to hear them!

A Katy Family Christmas Experience

This weekend, the Blanco family experienced Christmas in a new way. We went to Current â€" A Christian Church in Katy Saturday night, which hosted a live Biblical experience, called “Journey to Bethlehem.” From the time we entered that church, we were treated like part of the production, and we loved it. We were placed in the “Abraham family” and ushered outside into the frigid air after refreshments and a brief overview. Soon the reality of what Mary and Joseph and all the other Israelites experienced on their way to be “counted” in Bethlehem began to sink in. The girls and I held hands nervously, but with a twinge of excitement, as we experienced firsthand the evening of a traveling Jew from our various hometowns to Roman-led Bethlehem.

Everyone was dressed in the garb of that day, complete with beards and sandals, and though we were “tourists,” we were participants in the adventure. As we followed our guide, Benjamin, and his wife, Hannah, we not only met horses, sheep, camels, donkeys, and goats along the way, but we also began hearing the word of the coming Messiah. Not only was He prophesied to come to earth, but He was going to save us from Roman rule. As we were stopped along the way and checked by the dreaded Roman soldiers, we began to see why relief from their cruel rule would be miraculous. Later on, we came upon the traveling Maggi, who graciously showed us the gifts they were bringing the new King â€" they were so elegant and royal in their wealthy robes and headpieces.

We passed shepherds in the field, who spoke excitedly of the rumored Messiah.  Just then, angels appeared in the far field and in the incredible glow of light, prophesied the coming King. Moving on, we shivered in the cold, and at another checkpoint, our money was taken for “taxes.” Benjamin was livid, as we were told about the census, but not about more taxes. There was just enough money to find a place for the family to stay somewhere in Bethlehem, and to give each child a shekel to spend at the town market. The kids excitedly held their shiny coins, and as we entered the market, vendors began their sales pitches, “Ten shekels for this plump chicken.”

From the marketplace, the kids left with wooden tops, handmade necklaces and other goodies. We moved on to find a place to stay, and soon realized there was no more room. The man at the inn told us about the stable around back that maybe had a little room left, but to keep quiet, as a young woman had just given birth to a baby boy there earlier that night. As we rounded the corner, a trio of village worshippers sang greetings to us. And there, in the back of that humble shanty, a young mother held the Savior in her arms, gently rocking him as her husband looked lovingly on. A donkey stood just feet from them, calmly chewing. Tears came to my eyes as this experience came to a close, and I realized that we had lived just a moment in the real experience of Jesus’ first night here on earth.

Did you and your family experience this incredible journey this past weekend? If so, I would love to hear what you thought of it. I highly recommend catching the production with your family next year, it was a wonderful, eye-opening experience.

It's that time of year again – time for the annual Rice Harvest Festival – and it's all thanks to Katy's rice farming history. The Katy area's 15 operating rice farms begin harvesting their 9,500 acres in late July or early August, with the rice making its way to the Rice Dryers in east Katy. The American Rice Growers Association, which operates one of three commercial dryers in the Katy area, only dries the rice from these Katy area farmers. They also grade rice from other rice farmers outside the Katy area, who have their own dryers. The Association sells their rice along with Katy area's rice to ARI, to be milled into the nation's premium long grain rice.

This year marks the Rice Harvest Festival's 30th anniversary. Previous Festivals have drawn 40,000 to 50,000 people for the weekend long event, with the proceeds benefitting 60 non-profit organizations. Several local participants will be returning this year to ensure great food, enjoyable activities, and fun and informative booths. Look for KISD High School Project Graduation and the Katy Volunteer Fire Department, as well as local organizations like VFW, Elks, and the Knights of Columbus. Volunteers from local schools and churches help man many of the booths.

The weekend long event takes place in the historic district of downtown Katy as a way of honoring the local rice farmers and their contribution to the area's economy and as a way to promote the city of Katy. Admission prices are $7 per person for one day admittance and includes the live entertainment on both stages. The Carnival wristbands cost $20 for one day admission on Saturday or Sunday, and $15 for Friday night only. Food offerings include barbecue, funnel cakes, boudin balls, roasted corn on the cob, sausage on a stick, chicken on stick, turkey legs, kettle corn and more.

The Katy Rice Harvest Festival Parade runs through downtown Katy the weekend before the actual Festival, on Saturday, October 2, 2010. The parade begins at 10 AM, but to make sure you and your family don't miss any of the action, come early and begin lining those streets at 9AM.

Katy High School is offering free parking for the Rice Harvest Festival and Carnival with free shuttle service provided to and from the festival grounds. Handicap parking is available on Avenue A just south of third street for those with a legal handicap permit visibly displayed. Handicap accessible portable toilets will be located at Gates 7 and 8. The Festival runs on Saturday, October 9th from 10AM to 11:30PM and Sunday, October 10th from Noon to 6:00PM.

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A Map Of The Festival Grounds Can Be Found At: 30th Katy Rice Harvest Festival – map http://riceharvestfestival.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=Po3Fw_ncKhQ%3d&tabid=225

For Complete Rice Harvest Festival Information: Visit: 30th Annual Katy Rice Harvest Festival http://riceharvestfestival.org/

Or Contact: Katy Area Chamber of Commerce 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd, Suite B206Â Â Â Katy, TX 77494Â Â Â 281.391.KATY (5289)

[email protected]

Zube (pronounced: zoo-bee) Park in west Harris County, just north of Katy, is a 14 acre green space with all the amenities one would expect to find in a family-oriented recreational area: Play grounds, picnic tables, grills, pavilions, hiking trails, restrooms and soccer fields. But there is one more hidden treasure that is becoming increasingly popular with families – the 1/8 scale Cypress Creek and Southern Railroad, operated by the Houston Area Live Steamers (HALS).

The HALS railroad attracts train enthusiasts of all ages who come out to take the railroad's 6 mile long journey, an excursion lasting about 15 minutes. They even have a specially designed car to accommodate a standard width wheelchair. HALS opens its train rides to the public on the third Saturday of every month, starting in March and running through November, weather permitting. The next Public Run days are Saturday, October 16 and Saturday, November 20 from 9:00 AM through 1:00PM. Special tours can also be arranged by contacting the club. Train rides are free, however, donations are always welcome.

Zube Park, itself is opened from 8:00 AM to dusk, so pack your picnic and make a day of it. To get to Zube Park, drive north on Katy Hockley Cutoff. The Park is located at 17400 Roberts Road just north of Highway 290 in Hockley. (Katy Hockley Cutoff changes names to Roberts Road at 290).

For More Information: Houston Area Live Steamers http://www.hals.org

           or write:

Houston Area Live Steamers, Inc. P. O. Box 215 Hockley, TX 77447-0215

Map to Zube Park: http://www.hals.org/map.html

Parks Administration Office: (281) 496-2177

When was the last time you wrote a letter by hand? When was the last time you received a handwritten letter? In this age of e-mails, texting, and IM-ing, getting messages to people quickly seems so much easier and more convenient than drawn-out letters written longhand. The hi-tech age seems to have signaled the end of handwritten letters filled with heartfelt words. Yet there are times in everyone's life when receiving one of these letters makes a profound difference.

About 15 years ago, my grandmother died. When my mother and her siblings went through grandma's things, they asked each of the grandchildren if there was anything we wanted to remember her by. I asked for one of the sweaters I remembered her always wearing. Even in summer, when she sat out on the porch enjoying the evening breezes, she had a sweater around her shoulders. My aunt enclosed a note with the sweater when she sent it to me. She knew I was having some personal troubles, feeling a bit depressed at the time. She reminded me how wise my grandmother had always been and how, after praying, she always seemed to know what to do. She told me that, at the times when I didn't know what to do or where to turn, that I should ask myself, what would grandma do? I have found myself asking that question many times since then – for the big things as well as the small. I start with a payer, and think about what grandma would have done, and the answers come. Those times when wisdom has failed me have been the times when I failed to heed this advice.

A few years ago, I had the opportunity to write a heartfelt letter to someone else. My husband's uncle went through a rocky divorce when his 3 girls were young, causing a major rift between him and his youngest daughter. The hurt feelings separated them for many years. He died a few years ago without the benefit of a reconciliation. Her two older sisters convinced their youngest sister, my husband's cousin, to come to the funeral in an attempt to heal her wounds and help her on the path toward forgiving her father and herself. My husband was so glad to see his long lost cousin and to be able to spend time with her that day, it was all he talked about for weeks. When Christmas came around soon after, I found her address, and sent her a Christmas card with a note telling her how much my husband had missed her all these years, especially around Christmas, and how glad he was to be able to spend time with her again. She showed up at the extended family's Christmas gathering that year for the first time in about 20 years. The entire family was ecstatic to see her. She pulled me aside to thank me for that note. In all those years, she’d never realized that her father's family had been missed her so much. The note and the warmth she felt that Christmas went a long way in healing her wounds and helping her find the forgiveness she needed.

Handwritten notes don't have to be several pages long. A simple paragraph or even just a couple of sentences may be all that are needed to reconnect with long lost relatives or friends, to heal old wounds, or to help guide someone through rough times. Even if everything is going well in the other person's life, receiving a few loving words, written by hand, carries more meaning than any quick e-mail ever could, and sends a ripple effect of warmth from that person to everyone they touch afterwards. If you know of someone you haven't sent a warmhearted letter to in a while, track down their current address and send them a letter or a card with a few words to let them know what they mean to you and tell them that they are important. If you haven't had a heart-to-heart in a while, the few words you jot down might just turn out to be the right words at the right time

In the past six months, not a day has gone by that I haven’t uttered the words, “Star Wars.” I am sure that there are several Katy moms with the same situation: 6-year-old son completely immersed in the Star Wars galaxy of light sabers, rebels, Imperial troops, and the force.

When my son was in kindergarten, he started to ask me questions like, “What is Star Wars?” and “Who is Darth Vader?” My dismissive response was, “Oh, it’s a movie that was popular when I was a kid.” Of course, I knew he was getting information from the kids at school, and my son does not rest until he can put the pieces together. At the end of the school year, I decided that I don’t want to keep explaining the story anymore because I was sure I was getting some of the details wrong, especially since I was messed up by the original trilogy/new prequel backwards storyline.

We began watching Star Wars in order â€" The Phantom Menace first. Yes, I know…lovely choice for a 6-year-old (and a 4-year-old daughter who has to do everything her big brother does). I watched the whole thing with them, fast forwarding through the scary parts. My kids did not even know that Darth Maul and Qui-Gon had a duel of fates because I did not want to contend with the nightmares that would ensure after watching the red guy with stripes on his face slice Obi Wan with his double light saber. Podracing with Anakin was the best part of the movie. My kids were sucked in by the force â€" they begged to watch the next one.

So, we watched Attack of the Clones where the conspiracy becomes imminent. The entire family was jumping in our seats at the end of the movie when Master Yoda took off his robe and engaged Dooku in a light saber duel. The Revenge of the Sith was the most scary as the dark side of the force wins through order 66. Anakin becomes Darth Vader as declared by Palpatine, and Padmae gives birth to Luke and Leia before she dies. Finally, after watching I, II, and III, the original trilogy (IV, V, and VI) makes sense. After many afternoons of watching Star Wars: A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi, a little bit at a time, my kids immediately said, “Can we start over?!”

Since that time, I have bought Star Wars shirts, Legos, books, light sabers, and figures. My kids con my parents into taking them to Toys R Us to buy more figures! I have downloaded Star Wars music on iTunes. I bought their Halloween costumes in July â€" Darth Vader and Princess Leia. I raided Katy Budget Books one day with this request: “Please show me where you keep all the Star Wars books.” We found every one of them that day. I’ve enjoyed my kids’ enthusiasm for these movies. The former English teacher in me approves of the archetypal characters and themes as well as the allusions to mythology and the Bible. I also believe that the filmmaking and storytelling are genius. Just like the other obsessions (i.e., Elmo, Thomas the Tank Engine, and Transformers), I know this one will end sometime. In the meantime, I like watching my kids be kids.

Katy moms and dads: What are your kids into these days? Do you have little Storm Troopers in your home? Are you a 1, 2, or 3+ light saber family?

A few weeks ago I received a jury summons. I should have known it was coming. For one thing, I haven't been called in over 4 years. For another, My husband and both of my grown children have been summoned in the last 3 months. It was only a matter of time before mine arrived in the mailbox. I live in the Harris County portion of Katy, which means a no-expenses-paid day trip into beautiful, downtown Houston. Lucky me!

At first, I was more than just a little annoyed. It meant rearranging my entire schedule and my life. Grumble, grumble, grumble. I had to make other arrangements for getting my granddaughter to school (one of my jobs since she and our daughter moved in with us). Grumble, grumble. Then, because I didn't relish the thought of driving and parking in downtown Houston, I had to learn the bus schedule and bus stop locations downtown. It also meant finding my way from the bus stop to Jury Assembly Room and from each of the separate court houses to the return bus stop. Grumble, grumble.

It also meant taking time off from my writing desk. Grumble, grumble. Because I don't get paid if I don't write, I took a little hand work with me so that I’d have something to do while hanging out in the Jury Assembly Room with about 500 of my new friends that didn't want to be there either. Grumble, grumble. I don't much like hand work; the computer keyboard is SOOO much faster. But I knew that there wouldn't be much room to work with my laptop and my notes. Plus I didn't feel like lugging the laptop around downtown.

All my grumbling aside, the people running the Harris County jury services are attempting to make the experience easier and a bit more pleasant for potential jurors – or maybe I should say, a little less un-pleasant. They have an effective website with valuable transportation and parking information as well as ways to reschedule jury duty. They now provide Wi-Fi in the Jury Assembly Room, which a few die-hard computer addicts took advantage of (by spreading out over two or three seats). The Jury Room personnel responsible for greeting jurors, fielding creative excuses from jurors hoping to get out of jury service, and arranging jurors into panels for voir dire have assumed a more cheerful attitude (no more dour government grumps to contend with). In fact, some of them bordered on the comedic, including the bailiff responsible for the 65 person panel I was chosen for. Even the judge and the lawyers had a funny streak.

A little humor went a long way toward disarming the "I don't want to be here" attitude of most of the jurors. However, there were still a few who, finding no creative excuses for getting out jury duty, did everything in their power to keep from being selected for this particular jury. It was a sorry sight to witness the extremes to which four or five of the 65 empanelled jurors would go to keep from being among the chosen twelve. Every question or scenario put to the jury by the judge and the attorneys became an excuse to inform the entire room that it was mandatory that they be disqualified from this jury. They had been burglarized before. They thought that any defendant who didn't testify on his own behalf looked guilty. The defendant was indicted by the Grand Jury which they felt automatically made him guilty.

None of us wanted to be there. Many raised their hand because they’d been burglarized and some remained silent in hopes of flying in under the radar, hoping their invisibility would keep them from being chosen. Those few who objected the loudest weren't really objecting to the scenarios and questions put before them; they were doing everything they could to ruin their chances of getting on the jury. They objected so loudly and so many times, it became irritating to listen to; not only to the judge, the attorneys and the defendant, but to the remaining jurors. The rest of us began distancing ourselves by becoming more conciliatory, practically volunteering to be on the jury because we didn't want to appear as selfish and heartless as the few malcontents in the room.

I was not chosen for the jury, though at this point I would have gladly done so, even if it meant giving up a few days of my time and the money I wouldn't be earning from writing. For me, the experience was disheartening at the very least, if not downright criminal. If it had been one of us up there in that defendant's seat, or, God forbid, one of our family members, how would it feel to watch the depraved indifference of these few jurors? One thing's clear; I will not feel the same sense of dread the next time a jury summons shows up in my mail box and I’ll certainly not grumble like I did this time.

In 1996, I became a card maker using rubber stamps.  My friend Sharon taught me how to use stamps to make beautiful cards.  She had thousands of stamps, and I’m not exaggerating.  I slowly built up my own collection of stamps along with embossing pens and powder, markers, ink pads, adhesives, and cardstock.  It then became necessary to buy a drafting table and a rolling cart to store the materials for my new hobby.  I also needed a room for my crafts, so my study became the “craft room.”  I have to admit that since I started this hobby, I have bought roughly five cards in the last 14 years.  I justified my crafting expenses by the money I saved from not buying cards.  Well, that’s what I told my husband anyway.

My friend Christine was also a stamper (as we fellow crafters called ourselves), but she was also a scrapbooker.  She tried to convince me to become a scrapbooker like many ladies in the Katy area.  I kept thinking of the expenses that scrapbooking would incur; I would have to buy even more supplies like a die cut machine, special 12×12 papers, embellishments, ribbon, organization bins, albums, and on and on…

After resisting for many years, I finally did it. I became a scrapbooker, much to the delight of Hobby Lobby and Michael’s.  No matter how many supplies I owned, it became an obsession to want more supplies.  I was thrilled with my “new” hobby.  I chose to create chronological albums of my children’s lives that include each month of the year.  After two years of being an official scrapbooker, I became disillusioned by the overwhelming effort it was to make a single page.   For example, if I wanted to make a page of our visit to the zoo, then it would require all (but not limited to) the following: a couple of 12×12 papers of animal print, cardstock, alpha chipboard or alpha die cuts, animal stickers, a cute phrase sticker or rub on, ribbon to match the paper, adhesive for the ribbon, glue dots, fun embellishments, and printed pictures.  Then I would need space and free time.  Scrapbooking wasn’t for me anymore, especially with my two little kids who needed my attention.  I admire all the ladies who are hard-core-weekend retreat-going-scrapbooking enthusiasts.  I marvel at their patience.

I became overjoyed when I discovered digital scrapbooking.  I researched the best software online and then bought it for about $25.  It is very user friendly, and I can now make a beautiful page in just a fraction of the time and cost of the hand made pages.  I entered the world of digital scrapbooking blogs. There are so many women out there with a passion for digital scrapbooking, and they love to share their digital embellishments, papers, and alphas (digikits).  When I say share, I mean it’s FREE to download.  Do a search for free digikits, and you will find that it is endless.  Be careful though…it’s addictive.  Once I have made a page, I save it as a JPG, and then upload it onto one of the many digital printing websites. One 12×12 page typically costs $1.99 to print; I print 20+ pages at a time, and then I wait for the delivery in my mail box.  When I hold my pages in my hands, I am so happy.  I have given away or thrown away most of my supplies.  My craft room has become a study again, and I now need only my pictures on my external hard drive and my laptop to “craft.”Â

So, busy Katy moms — If you want to preserve your kids ‘memories (or your own) in a special way but don’t want to spend a fortune on supplies, then consider digital scrapbooking.  Do you have any questions about digital scrapbooking? What are your thoughts about it? Post your comments below.

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Of course, my husband and I had to hear about the cell phone many months before we actually deemed it a need instead of just a want, and gave in and bought it. My twelve-year-old son, Jovanni, is in a little hurry to grow up. Are all kids like this now? They want Facebook profiles (he hasn’t won that argument yet!), laptops, cell phones, ipads… I was happy with a notebook and pen at his age. That’s all that was readily available when I was his age! (Oh, did I just date myself?)

What to do? Well, my advice, even if you don’t want it, is to NOT give in to all the requests, whines, or demands for the newest, most expensive “thing” on the gadget market. Ask yourself, is this something my child really needs right now? Is peer pressure a factor in their pressing “need” for this item? Would this purchase create more problems for society situations (i.e. bullying, sexual predators, etc.)? If so, then maybe, just maybe, it is not the best purchase idea for your child at this time.

If the purchase is a good idea, then I highly recommend that a purchase for your tween or teen come out of their own pocket, either partially or fully. They are getting closer every year to springing the nest, and if they get the idea at home that whatever they want, they can get with no investment on their part, the value of that item is immediately diminished. They are better off if they have to save for part – or all – of it, because they will value it more having waited and planned for it. They also watch to see if you put it on “the card.” If your child gets the idea that what you want, you get now, they are not able to realistically deal with the idea of credit later in their lives. They don’t see that you are paying for that item later, and paying more, a lot of times, than the original price.

In our house, my son has to use his own allowance for his cell phone bill. We felt that this would create a sense of responsibility in him, and he would treat his “toy” better for it. Sure enough, he has not lost the phone, it hasn’t been broken, and I love that I can run to the post office and call him to check in on the way home! The peace of mind that this gadget gives me, and the fun that texting his cousins and friends back home gives him, is worth every dime.

If you haven’t already received your pamphlet in the mail, be on the lookout for the Fall 2010 Community Education classes list from the Katy Independent School District. This idea is new to me, being from a small rural area previously, and I like it! A large assortment of interesting topics are available to local residents, either online or in person. The classes are held locally at assorted KISD campuses. From foreign languages to finance, painting to sewing, guitar lessons to zumba dance classes, there seems to be a little of everything offered! Take your pick, and if you are age sixteen and above, sign up for one of these classes. Fees are different for every class, as some require more materials than others.Â

Have you ever wanted to learn how to arrange flowers? There is a class for that! Always wanted to try your hand at shooting a bow and arrow? Take the archery class! The topic list is almost endless, covering sign language for babies, conversational arabic, real estate investing, how to organize your life, oil painting, gardening, how to get published, and photography! There is even a class for learning how to make your home more energy efficient (Home Energy Efficiency 101)!Â

This is a great idea, and very affordable. The average class cost is about $50-$70, and they last as long as one evening to several weeks. If you would rather learn at your own pace and without the social stimulation, sign up for an online class, and still reap the wonderful reward of knowledge. These classes are not offered for college credits, but they do further your “degree from the school of hard knocks!”

For further information, you can contact the Community Education Program of Katy ISD at 281-396-6365 or in person at 6301 South Stadium Lane in the KISD Educational Support Center on Monday-Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

We had every good intention of getting up at six o’clock a.m. this week, in preparation for the new school year, but those good intentions went out the same window that our good summer intentions of re-slathering the sunscreen every hour and a half went out of! My twelve-year-old son had to wake me up at eight o’clock a.m. this morning, so we obviously haven’t been wasting our time practicing for up and at ‘em! Shoulda, woulda, coulda… Ok, I have set the alarm for a good old-fashioned try at it tomorrow morning, 6:00 a.m. It’s that time of year again!

Almost gone are the lazy summer days of freedom and too much sun. So many friends over and too much swimming. So little chores to do, so much sleep to get! Almost gone are the days of hanging out with friends until too late, since the kids don’t have to be anywhere anyway! Almost gone are the endless popsicles, ice cream truck runs, and late night neighborhood walks.

Here again (almost!) are the days of school and schedules, sports and homework, appointments here and there. Back to the family hubbub of activities, classes, church functions and dance meets. Here again is curfew and time limits, running late and running around, the general hustle and bustle of back to school. Time to put into place the family message center, meal plan and calendar.  Here’s another chance at organizing your entryway for the shoe changes, sports equipment, and dance costumes. Have you gotten everything the kids need for school supplies, or, even more importantly, their fashion needs? Welcome to the end of summer and everything slow paced and comfortable…school starts August 23rd!

So as we moms kiss summer goodbye for another school season, we take a deep breath together and embrace the change! As for me, I might hit the snooze button in the morning just a couple of times, who needs to practice for getting up earlier, anyway?!Â

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Bear Creek Park is a great way to have fun with friends and family, especially on weekends and when the weather is beautiful. The park provides over 2,000 acres of picnic areas, walking and nature trails, and playgrounds.

Most of the sports venues (baseball and soccer) are used by sports teams that have signed up for the spaces in advance. However, when not in use by teams, families have been known to play their own games in these fields.

Picnic areas are spread out far enough apart that hundreds of families and large gatherings can share the park without tripping over each other. They include picnic tables, grills, garbage cans, restroom facilities, and wide-open, grassy areas for spreading out blankets – or for simply running around.

There are eight pavilions that can be reserved in advance for large parties. These covered picnic areas include multiple picnic tables, a large barbecue pit, electrical outlets, and a water hose connection. To rent for the entire day, the park administration asks for a $125 check in advance when reserving the space. The money is fully refundable provided the person reserving the space cleans up afterward and providing no damage is left behind. To reserve one of the pavilions, contact Kacie Davis at the Parks Administration Office. The phone number is 281-496-2177 or send an e-mail to [email protected].

Bear Creek Park is open to the public daily from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. It's located at 3535 War Memorial Drive, but is also accessible from Highway 6, and Clay Road.

To find out more about the park click here. Click here to see a map of the Park.

My husband and I read Dr. Gary Chapman’s book, The Five Love Languages, early in our marriage. We found it to be of such importance that I went on and read The Five Love Languages of Children, by Chapman and Dr. Ross Campbell.

The premise of both books is that love is understood differently by different people. If I love my husband with acts of service, he will receive the love more deeply than if I love him with quality time.

I highly recommend the books for anyone who is interested in finding out your love language. Â The book lists 5 basic, general love languages: words of affirmation, physical touch, acts of service, quality time, and gifts.

When life is busy being lived, it isn’t always easy for me to know exactly how to translate the overarching idea of ‘quality time’ into my structured week. I know my spouse responds to love through gifts, but that doesn’t always mean I know which trinket to grab while I’m grocery shopping.

Enter a strategy we occasionally employ: I will, from time to time, ask my spouse the question, “How can I make you feel loved today?” The answer is supposed to be something that meets a need or desire he has that very day. From grabbing his favorite beer at the grocery store to spending 30 minutes watching UFC with him, I know that what he requests will allow him to feel love from me.

I often, throughout the day, will make mental notes of how I would feel love. Although acts of service is not my primary love language, some days, with the kids and the house heavy on my mind, I feel the most love when my husband willingly takes cleaning the kitchen on. Other days, all I want is to sit still in his presence after the kids have gone to bed.

Although it takes some of the surprise and intrigue out of it, stating our particular ‘love need’ on some days assures we will be meeting the other person where they are, with something that will really encourage or refresh them. It works well for us, and helps take general ideas from a book and apply them in our daily lives.

What about you? Do you use the five love languages in your home? Post a comment below!

My family just got back from a stay at Disney World, and my children are all about Mickey and the princesses these days. So, when it came time to whip up a dessert for a get-together, the decision was easy: Mickey Mouse rice cereal treats. I was envisioning something like the classic Mickey ice cream sticks covered in chocolate, but I could not find a cookie cutter of the traditional Mickey face anywhere in town.

Instead, I did find a full body cookie cutter of Mickey, looking to the side. Because our hearts were set on making this dessert, my daughter, age 4, and I decided it was good enough for our purposes.

I made the rice cereal treats and spread them as thin as possible over a jelly roll pan covered in wax paper and cooking spray. After the treats cooled just enough to be easy to manage but not so much that they were set, I began cutting Mickey’s head out of the side. Since it was a whole body cookie cutter, I had to form the base of his head once the treat was cut. With the leftover treats, I rolled small balls and set them aside.

Next, I melted Bark chocolate and dipped Mickey’s ears in the chocolate. I smoothed the line dividing his face from his ears with a spoon and added a drop of chocolate for his nose. With the remaining chocolate, I drizzled the treat balls.

The Mickey Mouse rice cereal treats were a huge hit at our get-together and with my daughters. My four-year-old believes anything is possible: she’s asked me next to make a dessert that looks like the Disney Princesses. I’m not sure how exactly I plan to do that, but she’s thrown down the gauntlet and I plan to respond somehow.

What about you? What creative things have you done with rice cereal treats? Post a comment below!

We love the idea of a progressive dinner, whereby we travel to three different restaurants throughout the course of our meal. Appetizer and drinks, main dish, and dessert are all eaten at different venues, making the night last a bit longer and allowing for some variety within the meal.

Our first progressive dinner date, we did on a bigger scale, budget-wise. Then, we ate appetizers at Perry’s Steakhouse, dinner at Three Olives, and dessert at Hasta la Pasta. While it was wonderful, we were curious: can we do it again, this time being more budget-conscience?

We decided to make the entire event hassle free by choosing a location that has it all: La Centerra. We were able to enjoy three courses at three different locations, all on foot.

We started our meal with appetizers at Baker Street Pub. Keeping the goal of staying on a low budget, we opted for Mission Burrito for our main course, and finished up at The Yogurt Spot (just a short walk from La Centerra).Â

There are so many options at La Centerra for all three courses that we could easily go back and do another dinner date with an entirely different set of restaurants. In fact, as we were walking from meal to meal, we were planning out our next progressive evening.

The meal, in its entirety, took up 5 hours, provided us with wonderful food, and rang in at well under $50.  Progressive dinners on a budget… success!

The common thread for our progressive dinner dates so far is that we make them double dates. Having another couple along makes the evening of sitting, waiting, and eating such a joy. We loved the way the night had lulls in activity that allowed for deeper conversation, and changing venues kept things fresh and entertaining.Â

All in all, progressive dinner dates have been enjoyable, relaxed, and wholly successful for my husband and I. We’ve added it to our list of favorite date ideas!

How about you? Have you tried progressive dining? Post a comment below!

The 2010-1011 school year starts is only a month away, which means school supplies, clothes, and for some of us, registering children in new schools. For students new Katy ISD and returning students, parents need to make sure you’ve got everything ready for the new school year.

According to the Katy ISD registration site at http://www.katyisd.org/parents/Pages/Registration.aspx, to register students new to the district, or new to kindergarten, middle, or high school, parents will need the following documents:

Registration occurs in the front office at individual campuses, during the second and third weeks of August. The hours for August 10-13 are: Tuesday and Thursday, 9-11 AM for names beginning with A-L and 1-3 PM for M-Z. Kindergarteners Register on Wednesday from 8-Noon and 1-3. Friday is open to all students from 9-11 AM. For the Week of August 17-19: Tuesday is open to elementary school registration from 9-11 AM, and secondary schools from 1-3 PM. All grade levels can be registered on Wednesday and Thursday.

To find out which schools to register your students at, first visit the Katy ISD Attendance Zones site at:Â http://apps.katyisd.org/public/katyisdcampusmap, then go to:

http://www.katisd.org/scd/District­_map.pdf  to locate individual campuses and addresses.

The first day of school is Monday, August 23, 2010. The Elementary school day begins at 8:20 AM and ends at 3:40 PM. Junior and Senior High school days begin at 7:30 AM and run through 2:35 PM.

For more Information:

Katy ISD School Supply Lists can be found at: http://www.katyisd.org/parents/Supply%20List%202010/Forms/AllItems.aspx

Katy ISD Instructional Calendar for 2010-2011 is located: http://www.katyisd.org/Calendars2/2010-2011%20Instructional%20Calendar.pdf

For General Katy ISD information: http://www.katyisd.org/Pages/default.aspx

Brazos Bend State Park, bordering the Brazos River in fort Bend County, boasts 5,000 acres with seven lakes and more than 20 miles of Hike and Bike trails. The Park is a wildlife sanctuary where families can observe egrets and herons, ducks of all kinds, rabbits and raccoons, turtles, snakes and alligators in their natural habitat. National Geographic Traveler Magazine rated Brazos Bend one of the top ten State Parks in the Nation.

Bring your bikes and your hiking shoes for witnessing the wildlife – and for the exercise and fun. The park sells no food, but has plenty of picnic tables and grills, as well as space for picnic blankets. Even on a busy weekend you can find a spot without being too close to neighboring picnickers, unless you want to be close. So pack up your ice chests with enough food for lunch and dinner and enjoy fine outdoor dining with your kids.

Other activities include pier fishing in any of the seven lakes, a nature center and museum (open every Saturday and Sunday, or weekdays by appointment), camping, and for astronomy buffs, the George Observatory and Challenger Learning Center. The Observatory is open to the public on Saturdays with viewing after dusk. Tickets to view the telescopes in all the three domes go on sale at 5PM and cost $5 per person. Viewing through the telescopes on the deck, though, are free of charge.

Brazos Bend State Park is open every day from 8AM until 10PM. Entrance fees run $5 per person for everyone 13 years or older. Twelve and under are free. From Katy Freeway/I-10, head south on State Highway 99/ Grand Parkway. When SH99 crosses Highway 59 in Sugarland, it changes names to Highway 1462 west. From there, just follow the brown State Park signs until you get there. It's nearly 30 miles, but well worth the drive.

The Park has a number of online features to check out before you head out:

Have you ever wanted to check out some Ancient Chinese Artifacts or learn a little about Chinese history? You don't have to go all the way to China to find it. Forbidden Garden is a 40 Acre Museum of Chinese history right in our own backyard.

Here you and your family can learn about China from its beginnings under Emperor Qin (pronounced Chin). Miniature dioramas relate the life of the Forbidden City where Chinese Emperors lived with their families. Other exhibits recount the building of the Great Wall, show building construction techniques, and display weapons and armor used by Chinese warriors in their battles against the Mongols.

The biggest and best part of the museum is a recreation of the a 1:2 scale model of the Terra Cotta Army protecting Emperor Qin's tomb. The original Terra Cotta Army that it was modeled after was discovered in 1973 by a farmer digging a well.

Forbidden Gardens is opened Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10:oo AM until 3:00PM. Ticket prices vary by age: 0-2 years are free, 3-5 years tickets cost $3, kids 6-12 years and senior citizens pay $5 each, and adults are charged $10. Although, for groups of 20 or more, the admission price is reduced to $5 each.

From downtown Katy, take I-10 East (inbound) and exit State highway 99 / Grand Parkway. Turn North until it dead ends into Franz Road. Turn left on Franz and Forbidden Gardens will be immediately on your right. For more information call at (281) 347-8000 or email at [email protected]. Special tour information can be obtained by e-mailing at [email protected].

As a child, I enjoyed tossing rocks into the water and watching the ripples that emerged from the displacement of water. I marveled at the widespread impact of a small pebble. Small ripples became larger ripples that spread further and further away from the center. I have often imagined that we, like pebbles, can have a significant impact on those around us. The pebble analogy has been a reminder of the impact of my words and actions on others. Â

This past weekend, while attending a seminar, I learned additional information about water ripples. The ripples of water that come back to the pebble are much stronger than the ripples that go out. If our lives are indeed like a pebble in water, that which we emit will eventually come back to us with added strength. As I sat pondering this scientific property, I was sobered by the thought of it. What had I emitted to others? Was I spreading happiness, positive emotion and goodwill, or was I spreading ill-will and negativity?Â

The quote, “What goes around comes around”, it seems, is a true physical property! The more we emit kindness, truth, and happiness, the more we will receive it. Conversely, the more we gossip, express negative emotion and treat others unkindly, the more others will treat us this way. Our daily words and actions definitely impact those around us- particularly the members of our family. I often feel that as a mother, I can set the tone in the home. It is no wonder that on the days when I am stressed or short tempered, others seem to be stressed and short to me! A smile, a kind word, an empathetic ear and a positive attitude are all examples of positive ripples. Emotion is truly infectious…may we share it wisely!

How has someone positively impacted you? Please share.

 This year, our big annual family vacation starts quickly after the Fourth of July. Preparations are in full swing and keeping us very busy, so we are not planning a major party or event for Independence Day. A low-key barbeque, sparklers, and a few crafts are plenty to keep our 2 and 4 year olds busy and happy.

 Cutting back on the sugary treats in our house means no red, white, and blue jell-o or sugar cookies. Homemade ice cream, made with reduced fat ingredients, may still make it to the table, but we are proudly bidding farewell to the majority of our patriotic sweets. Instead, the children will help me make fruit-and-lowfat vanilla yogurt parfaits. We may make it extra fun and throw a little red and blue food coloring into our yogurt.

One major change this year is that both of my girls are old enough to participate in family crafts. We will be making a large banner for our home on butcher paper. We’ll take the paper outdoors (to the grass) and soak cotton balls in washable paint. The children will throw the cotton balls onto the paper so that they will land with a splat and give a fireworks appearance.

We also plan to make sparklers out of wired star garland (found at the local craft stores) and the cardboard portion of coat hangers. We will stick some garland out of the end of the coat hanger tube and then tape it into place with blue painter’s tape. Follow up with some painting on the cardboard, and we’ve got fireless sparklers.

Our last family craft is making our place mats. If they turn out, I plan to laminate them and use them year after year. My four year old loves to tear paper, so we will make torn-paper American flags. We’ll rip the paper and then glue it in lines across the paper to mimic an American flag.

What about you? How are you celebrating the Fourth of July? Post a comment below!

Our toddler son has been hearing all about his triplet brothers in the NICU ever since their birth nine very long weeks ago. Now that one is ready to come home in a few days, the rush to get every single last-minute thing done has swung into full-gear.

Every parent who has brought home a sibling knows that Child Number One experiences a wide range of emotions. Although our situation is a bit different than most families’, here are a few things we did to better prepare our son. In the weeks ahead, I’m sure I’ll know if they made a big difference or not.

First, we did our best to include Son Number One (SNO) in some decions regarding his brothers. My husband and I let him make the final decision on the color of paint for the boys’ room. Of course, we had already chosen three finalists from which he could choose. SNO also helped pick out special soother friends for each brother and helped load up the shopping cart at Babies ‘R’ Us–because he is such a good big brother.

Which leads to encouraging your older child to look for ways to help. Can he share toys, help Mom and Dad stock the changing table (although the stack of diapers won't be as neat as if you diud it?), or be the last one in his carseat so that he can make sure the baby is safely buckled in by you?

Last for now is that everyone needs to remember SNO is an individual. He still needs his toddler routine–so we can't put him to bed when the babv goes. Is there a parent or relative who can take SNO out on special "Big Sibling" trips to the mall carousel, library, or bike ride? How can we make sure he still knows he has a special role in our family?

These are some of my suggestions, but I know you can help me with more. How did you prepare your own SNOs for their little siblings?

Fireworks will go off starting at dark – about 9:00 PM – at Katy Mills Mall on July Fourth. Fireworks will be shot off from the east side of the mall, between the mall and Katy Fort Bend Road.

The success of the fireworks displays has been due to the contributions of Katy area business and citizens. However two years ago, the fireworks nearly didn't light up the sky because of a slump in financial support from local business and because Rice Festival proceeds weren't being applied to the Fireworks funds that year. Until a local business, Warehouse Pool Supply, stepped up and helped make up the deficit in funds. The Chamber of Commerce has agreed to raise the Rice Harvest Festival ticket prices for 2010 so that a portion of the proceeds can be applied to the 2011 Fourth of July Fireworks display.

Warehouse Pool Supply will again be sponsoring the fireworks display at Katy Mills all this year, as the company has for the last two years. The company has given another grant of $15,000 to ensure the fireworks will go off as usual this fourth. Community donations have added and additional $7,000 to the fireworks kitty.

For anyone wishing to make a donation to make this an even bigger display send your donations in checks or cash to:

"Katy Freedom Celebration" City of Katy 5718 Second Street Katy, TX 77493Â

If you have any questions, send an e-mail to [email protected] or call 281-391-4711.

When I was a young girl, I remember being very proud of one of my possessions- my scrapbook. My mother had started a scrapbook for me when I was a baby and had added to it as the years passed. It wasn’t fancy. It was simply a compilation of pictures, letters, certificates, and drawings…in essence, all of my good memories.   By the time I went to college, I had three large notebooks filled with my life’s history. During college, I remember flipping through pages of my treasured scrapbooks on many occasions. The scrapbooks have always seemed to be a powerful reminder of what matters most. Â

When I got married, my mother gave me six empty scrapbooks and supplies to start on scrapbooks for my husband and family to be. My husband jumped aboard the scrapbook wagon. He began the long process of gathering any and all memorabilia he could find. It was a treat to walk down his life’s path with him as we compiled his scrapbooks. With much time and effort, he too had scrapbooks that detailed his life.  Â

As children entered our home, we began a scrapbook for each of them. I was happy when digital cameras became the norm because we could design and print scrapbook pages on the computer. I found it saved time if, for family event pages, I made one and simply made a copy for each family member.  I am not a crafty person, so I have tried to keep the books simple and manageable. Â

At the end of the school year, I felt happy as our family gathered in the living room to update the scrapbooks. I noticed the air of pride that emanated from each of my children as they flipped through pages and memories from the past.  So, no matter how many years have gone by, scrapbooks are always doable…and very well worth the effort!Â

How do you preserve family memories? Please share a comment.

This morning, I raced around the house knowing that the day was full.   I peered at the clock and noticed that I had five minutes to eat breakfast before I had to rush to the car and set off. I hurriedly poured a bowl of cereal and did what I tell my children not to do. I began to eat, standing up in the kitchen, and tried to quickly devour my Cheerios. Just as I took my first bite, my youngest child ran up to me and began to explain what was on his mind. In animated speech, he flung his arms up and, while doing so, hit my cereal bowl. Cereal and milk covered my face, hair and clothes. I was absolutely drenched with my breakfast!  In exasperation, I let out a shriek of shock and frustration.Â

Now I was really pressed for time! I raced to the laundry room, took my milk-covered clothes off and ran to the bathroom to wash off my face and hair. I knew I would definitely be late and I felt frustrated! As much as I had tried to start off the morning right, my morning had not gone as planned. I shook my head as I thought of the craziness of motherhood.   Suddenly, I caught sight of myself in the mirror. I looked horrible. Little, wet Cheerios were nestled in my hair. At once I realized how busy I had let my life become. I knew that, as a mother, it was important to leave wiggle room in my schedule for the unexpected. Maybe the Cheerios incident was a reminder that I needed to slow down.  Â

Drying off my wet hair, I selected my second outfit of the day and sprinted to the kitchen to grab my purse and keys. In the kitchen I noticed my son, who had drenched me with cereal, sitting at the table crying. I knew it had been an accident, yet, since I was in such a hurry, I had reacted with anger. So, in spite of my already being late, I decided I needed to tend to hurt feelings before moving forward with my day. I walked up to him and put my hand on his shoulder.

“Braden, it isn’t your fault.  I shouldn’t have been standing up while I was eating. But, I learned a good lesson! Next time, I will sit down when I eat and I won’t rush around like a wild woman. I love you!”

What lessons have your children taught you? Please share a comment.

Welcome to the first day of summer even though the Katy heat has made us feel like it’s been summer for sometime now. If you still are looking for some fun summer activities don’t worry. Katy/Houston has plenty!

For all you swimming types both Splashtown and Schlitterbahn Galveston Island are offering great summer specials and events. Be sure to visit both of their websites for information and details. If you think that your family may enjoy one of these parks multiple times this summer then consider a summer pass. If you love water parks those are a great deal.

Looking to introduce some education into your summer activities then consider visiting one of the wonderful museums in the Houston Museum District. You can read up on all of the museums at the museum district website. Several of the museums are free all the time and many others have special free admission days and times.

Katy is home to one of the most unique museum experiences. The Forbidden Gardens in Katy offers families the chance to learn about the historic past of China and it’s culture. This would be really fun now considering the hit movie Karate Kid that is currently out in theatres. What a great way to incorporate some fun and education!

Houston continues to provide us with many summer options in the fine arts area as well. Music and performance lovers should check out the Miller Outdoor Theatre. They are always hosting great events and it’s always free! If you want assigned, covered seating for any of the performances you can pick up tickets between 10:30 and 1:00 pm on ticketed show days at the Miller Outdoor Theatre box office.

Wanting something a little more low key? Katy has so many public parks that are wonderful for walks, runs, picnics and more. Discovery Green in Downtown Houston is also a beautiful place for a stroll. They also host many free events.

The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is also a wonderful place to go for a walk and to experience nature.

Whatever you are looking for, Katy and Houston has it and at prices that won’t empty your wallets. What is your favorite Katy summer activity? Share it with us below in a comment.

This summer, The Waters Church is offering a free Bible study session through its women’s ministry, Sisterhood. The Bible Study consists of an hour long teaching session, on DVD, given by Beth Moore. Following that, there is a time for discussion among the women in attendance.Â

The group of women meets every other Tuesday night at The Waters Church, located at 2710 North Mason Road, # 145 in Katy. This Tuesday, June 22nd, is an “on” week, or a week we are meeting. For more information, or for directions, visit www.iamthewaters.com.

This upcoming Tuesday, we will be viewing the second session of the nine session series. The DVD series is a recording of when Beth Moore taught her Inheritance talks in front of a live audience just last year.Â

The first session was incredible. I wasn’t sure what to expect. Although I love Beth Moore’s teachings, I didn’t know how it would translate onto a screen rather than live or via a book. However, the message was projected onto a large screen and was easy to watch, and the time flew by as I soaked in every word Moore said. I’ve thought back to the video many times over the past two weeks, and I am really looking forward to the next session.

If you are looking for a Bible study this summer, or have never had a chance to try one out, this is a great one. There is no homework, book to buy, or purchase of any kind required, and since we meet only every other week, it is very low stress. While all nine sessions fit together to create the whole message, even just attending one or two sessions would be worth it, in my opinion. The series is among my favorite that Beth Moore has presented. It is funny, touching, and challenging.

Do you have a study series on the Bible or Life-Improvement that you are involved in? Post a comment below!

The Perfect Summer Choice for Katy families

Let me first say that I am not writing this because my children have fabulous manners. In fact, when I recently received a call from my son’s elementary teacher, informing me that my son was over-doing it on the bodily noises, I paused to consider whether I was being effective in my teaching of good manners. So, I don’t have all the answers, but I am a believer that good manners are not old-fashioned and that they definitely still apply.  I think children and adults alike would benefit in reviewing and renewing polite behavior.   Here are some of my mental ramblings on good manners:

The words please, thank you, excuse me, and I’m sorry are magical words in human interaction. It is amazing how polite words can diffuse tense situations and help calm emotion. On the playground, in the doctor’s office, in the grocery store, and in our families, polite words are still very powerful.

The virtue of patience is needed at every stage of life. Just as I tell my young son to be patient while I finish up a project, I too, need to be patient when I am waiting in line or when I encounter a difficult situation. Patience with others, especially in times of difficulty, is a very positive trait.Â

I have met people who seem particularly gifted in human interaction. They are more interested in listening and understanding others than in talking about themselves. I have learned from these people that it is better to listen more than I talk, and that good manners consist of thinking of others before self.    Â

I hope traditional etiquette doesn’t fade with time. Good table manners, dating etiquette and respect for adults seem not to be as central to our teaching in this day and age. Call me old- fashioned, but, I loved it when my husband opened the door while we were dating and I still love it to this day!

How do you teach your children good manners? Please share a comment.

When our family moved to Katy, I was excited to experiment with the many varieties of tropical plants that I had never been able to plant in our previous yards in the Midwest.   I frequented Home Depot and Houston Garden Center to find the perfect trees, shrubs and flowers for our new Katy home.    Within months of moving into our home, I had planted a plethora of palms, fruit trees, crepe myrtles, magnolias and dozens of shrubs.   I was excited to watch my tropical yard flourish. Needless to say, within a year’s time, quite a few of my tropical beauties had died. I had always had a green thumb, so I wondered where I had gone wrong.

I soon learned that due to the clay-based soil, trees, shrubs, and flowers are not happy unless they are planted in raised beds where they have adequate drainage. With much chagrin, I began again, this year to beautify my yard. I bought plenty of fertile soil to ensure the tropical foliage would thrive. As I tried again, to plant various tropical varieties, I had much better success. In fact, I feel I am well on my way to my tropical paradise.Â

Another lesson I have learned is that yard work in the Houston area is very time consuming. With the humid environment, weeds grow like crazy. Last summer I felt like I simply couldn’t keep up. So, this summer, I have decided to spoil myself. I have hired a yard crew to mow and weed my yard once a week.  In Katy, there are hundreds of fabulous yard contractors who will mow, weed, plant, fertilize and mulch for a very reasonable rate.  At first I felt a little guilty that I had given up ownership of my yard care. But, each time I pull into my driveway and see the beauty that I could never have achieved on my own, I am more than happy I have outsourced some of my yard care.Â

What yard advice do you have to share? Please post a comment.

The Katy/Houston area is full of options to celebrate the Dad in your life with. It all depends on what you are looking for. Does your family want to go out to eat or stay home for a cookout? Maybe you’re looking for a fun event to attend?

The Children’s Museum of Houston is celebrating Father’s Day all week with special activities at Daddy Daze! Make a card, learn about Daddy’s in nature and so much more at the popular museum.

Sam Houston Race Park will be celebrating Father’s Day, this Sunday with live racing, great food and lawn mower races. Some lucky Dads will b selected for the Father’s Day lawn mower race!

Our local Katy Alamo Drafthouse will be showing Mr. Mom in honor of Father’s day this Sunday as well. And don’t forget to check into your favorite local restaurants. Most offer specials on what Dad would like.

You can also stay at home. Lounge in the pool, cookout, make it a family day! Visit the local grocery stores for great specials on cookout essentials. To get some ideas you can also get some ideas from websites like Williams-Sonoma.

Below I’ve posted some links with more info on these ideas. If you have more suggestions on Father’s Day activities please leave a comment below.

http://www.williams-sonoma.com/Â

http://www.shrp.com/Â

http://www.cmhouston.org/Â

http://www.drafthouse.com/

While attending a family reunion last week, I observed my three-year old niece, Allison, in my sister’s arms. Many of our family members were talking with each other, and I overheard my niece say to her mother, “Mommy, look at me! Mommy, I am talking to you!” She then touched both of my sister’s cheeks and made my sister look her straight in the eyes. Allison then said, “Now…I want to talk to you. Are you listening to me?”

Once my niece had her mother’s eye contact, she was content. She then said, “I want to tell you something. I saw a bird flying over there.” She beamed that she had been able to share with her mother what she had found so wondrous. Since witnessing this small interaction, I have become more aware of the necessity of giving eye contact so others know we are truly listening.Â

Last night I was busily running around the kitchen preparing dinner when my five-year old began chattering to me. He mirrored my movements, dodging this way and that as I opened the refrigerator, ran to the stove, cleared a dish, and wiped the counter. Suddenly I stopped my bustling as I realized he was doing exactly what my niece had done with her mother. He kept trying to get my eye contact so he could know I was truly hearing what he was trying to express.

When I realized this, I paused in my mayhem, bent to his level and focused on what he was saying. As I stopped, he too stopped and smiled, knowing that he had finally broken my frenetic pace. While listening to him, I realized that not only did he feel like I was listening, but I was truly understanding him more clearly. I understood him because I was still and focused.

In our crazy rushing, sometimes it really pays to slow down, pause and listen with full interest to our loved ones. I realized that if I am not listening with my eyes, I am not fully listening.

How do you show others you are really listening to them? Post a comment.

This weekend, we will be participating in a three-year family tradition: picking our own blueberries off of the bush at Moorhead’s Blueberry Farm. It is located in Conroe, a short drive from my sister’s home in Spring. From Katy, it is roughly an hour’s drive, but well worth the trip.

Moorhead’s Blueberry Farm (www.moorheadsblueberryfarm.com) is open to the public for blueberry picking from late May until mid July, with changes each year based on how the year’s weather has affected berry growth and ripening.  They do not charge admission and blueberries cost $1.50 a pound, payable by cash or check only. They are open from 7 am until 9 pm every day each week, but recommend coming either early or late due to the heat.

The past two years, by the middle of June, the blueberry picking has been slight due to extreme heat the first year and a long winter the second year. However, on the website this year, the forecast for berries looks good! The latest update says that there are still plenty of berries and we are thrilled to have our first year of a heavy harvest.

Each year on the Saturday before Father’s Day, my family gathers at my sister’s house to caravan to Moorhead’s Blueberry Farm. We spend about an hour picking blueberries, with my children sampling them off of the bushes as fast as they can pick them. The blueberries we are able to get into the bucket, we take to the front and pay for and then split between us. We love the experience, although incredibly hot, and we love that we’re teaching our girls what fresh blueberries look like and how they grow.

After an hour in the heat, with our loot in hand, we always celebrate with a snow cone and a great nap on the way home for the kids.

Since our personal family tradition is to go the weekend of Father’s Day, this comes with an added perk: breakfast in bed for Daddy with fresh blueberries and blueberry muffins from scratch!

What about you? Do you have a favorite site for fresh fruit picking? Post a comment below!

If not, the summer months are the perfect time to take care of their immunization needs. Pull out their immunization cards and check them for what shots may be needed.

Any child who is in need of a vaccination and all children moving into the Texas from another state will need proof of current immunizations being given before being allowed to attend school in the fall. If a child is a little behind in receiving immunizations, that child will be allowed a 30 day grace period for immunizations that cannot be given all at once. For instance, if the child needs two doses of the polio vaccine, they can't be given at the same time. But, if one has been given before the start of the school year, the 30-day grace period will be applied so that the child can receive the second missed dose without missing any school.

Children should, at the very least, have the following vaccinations before entering kindergarten: 2 doses of Hepatitis A; 2 doses of Mumps, Measles and Rubella (MMR); Vericella (Chicken Pox); and 4 doses of the Polio vaccine. Before entering the 7th grade, students need 1 dose of Vericella, 1 dose of the Meningococcal vaccine, Â and 1 dose of the Tetanus, Diptheria, and acelluar Pertussis-containing vaccine.

Check out the following two websites for more information about Immunizations for parents and for school and child-care requirements:Â

Texas Department of State Health Services Public Information – for Parents & Consumers http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/public.shtm

Texas Department of State Health Services School & Child-Care Facility Requirements http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/school/default.shtm

For charts showing current immunizations, the following website has printable versions in various sizes, available for color printers or in black-and-white versions:

2010 Immunization Schedules – Printable http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/schedules/child-schedule.htm#printable

You don't have to spend money to entertain your family and introduce them to something new. You just have to know where to look. The Houston Museum District is home to some of the best museums in our nation. We as Katyites are lucky to be close enough to enjoy such opportunities but not too close that we feel like we are in the big city of Houston itself.

Just because your kids are not in school doesn't mean that they can't learn something this summer. If you play this right they won't even think that they are learning because they will be having so much fun!

Of course, we know about the major museums in the district such as the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Children's Museum. But did you know that there are 18 museums in the Houston Museum District? Many of which are always free! Some have special free times during the week. See info below.

Always Free:

Special Free Times: General Admission Only

So if you do your homework, you can introduce your family to something new while saving money this summer. To learn more about these museums visit http://www.houstonmuseumdistrict.org/. If you have a favorite museum in the Houston Museum District please share your comments.

I am constantly amazed by my girls. Yesterday, I went in to wake up my four-year old from her nap and just sat and stared at her. On a daily basis, I appreciate the obvious things about her: her sense of humor, her creative mind, the way she spins in circles when she feels beautiful. But yesterday, sitting on her bed watching her breathe in and out, I was struck by the little things. How her hands have grown. How this amazing creation coexists with me every day of my life. How I can know the exact outline of her face and still be surprised when I really look closely at how perfectly she was formed.

I sat there, watching my daughter sleep, thinking about how not 2 hours earlier I was praying for more patience to deal with the latest act of defiance. With both of my daughters, four-year-old Avery and 18-month Kate, I feel like I spend my time living between adoration and frustration. The same little creature that throws temper tantrums is the one I was watching sleep and marveling at. The number of times a day I breathe deep and count to ten equals the number of times a day I cannot help but stop everything for a hug or a giggle with my beloveds.Â

In this place of parenting a toddler and a pre-schooler, I am always aware of how fast this time goes by and how common my feelings are to mothers in the same stage of life as me. I want to embrace these moments, and catching my daughter napping really helps me with my perspective.

I wonder if all of parenting isn’t like that. It is as wonderful as it is challenging. It is as much frustration as it is enjoyment.  That there are just as many days you want to be over before they begun as there are days you would freeze for all of eternity. And, as I pulled Avery in to me and held her tight as she slept, I couldn’t help but think of how welcome the frustrating time in this stage of life are, if they mean I also get these moments of sheer wonderment. Â

What about you? Â Which parts make you frustrated? Â Which parts will you cling to while they last? Â Post a comment below!

I have recently begun taking my Granddaughter to the grocery store with me. And, much as I did with my children when they were young, I gave her jobs to do that made her feel like she was part of the shopping. This had the same effect with her as it did with my kids – it kept her from whining and complaining the entire shopping trip.

What was the trick that kept her happy and me sane? Well there were three things really. The first thing I did was to let her have her own cart; one of the smaller two-tiered carts at HEB. They are short enough for her to see over (she's 5 years old), and even fully loaded, they’re light enough for her to push around. She also gets to unload her groceries onto the conveyer belt when we get to the grocery stand.

The second thing is to give her a few of those plastic produce bags. She gets to pick out a few of the fruits and vegetables she would like to eat around our house. For things I know we need, I’ll tell her how many, like 3 apples, 5 bananas, two peaches. I’ll tell her about how full to fill the bag of green beans or carrots.

The third thing I did was to giver coupons, the ones with the most easily recognizable pictures. If they require a certain number or size, I tell her that "this coupon says to buy 2" or "that coupon says to buy the big container." And she's allowed to choose whose cart it goes in, hers or mine. We have started the ritual for putting things in her cart. If she's putting in "squishy" things (eggs, bread, grapes, bananas) the go into the top tier of her basket, and everything non-breakable or non squishable goes in the bottom tier.

She does a great job, too. I was wondering though what other ideas people have come up with to have kids help with the groceries. What has anyone else tried?

P.S. Yes, we have come home with 1 or 2 … or 4…extra items that weren't on the list. Thankfully they weren't expensive.

While most people look to event venues for summer entertainment don’t forget to think outside the box. Local bookstores often host signings and events. For anyone who loves to read or wants to share that love with someone else this is a great opportunity to get autographed books and meet with authors. And it is a budget event! It only costs the cost of the book.

Katy bookstore, Katy Budget Books (www.katybooks.com ) often hosts book signings. This is a great opportunity to share the love of reading with your family.

Murder By the Book (www.murderbooks.com) off of Bissonnet is also a popular place to follow for great events involving thriller, crime and paranormal novels. We also are not too far off from Blue Willow Bookshop off of Memorial (www.bluewillowbookshop.com.)You can easily combine a love for books in your quest for a budget event.

Houston is full with small bookstores that bring big events with popular authors and topics. And I’ve always thought that there is something magical about an autographed book! Plus you can read the book in advance and then enjoy the opportunity to ask questions with the author. Whether you love to read or if you know someone who does attending local books signings can be a great budget event that can also get your family out of the summer heat.

Corn starch is great for cooking, I suppose. I think it is supposed to be used to thicken soups or something. I don’t use it much in the kitchen, because, admittedly, cooking is not one of my strengths.

However, I keep plenty of corn starch in the pantry at all times. Some days drag on with two busy children, and the days that seem the longest are the ones that we aren’t able to leave the house because we’re waiting to be fever free for 24 hours or because I’ve somehow misplaced the keys to the car… again.

Enter corn starch. Equal parts corn starch and water will make that fabulous stuff that is neither a solid nor a liquid. When you pick it up, it becomes a solid, but when allowed to drip out of your hands, it somehow is liquid again. Some people call it ‘oobleck’ from Dr. Suess’s book, some call it ‘Gak’ after the commercially available stuff. It doesn’t matter much what we call it, my kids love to fling it, grab it, and slime it on our counters and tables. We add a few drops of food coloring and sometimes mix the colors of oobleck to see what happens.

Next up: sidewalk paint. Equal parts corn starch and water with several drops of food coloring create sidewalk chalk that is bright, easy to use, and also ok for little ones who might decide to taste it. I would advise testing the colors first to make sure they wash away easily; the blue paint took a few weeks to rinse away completely last time we made it. (Idea originally from www.skiptomylou.blogspot.com)

My last secret corn starch weapon is bath paints. I use eco-friendly liquid dish detergent (about 1/3 cup) and roughly 1 tablespoon of corn starch. Of course, the food coloring makes all of the fun this time as well. I let the girls mix their own colors and then they hop in the tub and paint each other, the tub, and often my hands and arms as well. We keep the paint out of the grouted areas and primarily on the basin of the tub just in case, but that never seems to spoil the fun.  (Idea originally from www.pepperpaints.com)

Corn starch adds a whole lot of fun to our home. On days where the clock seems to stop, I know it’s time to pull out my secret weapon and unleash the creativity of my girls upon the slow day.  Corn starch to the rescue!

How do you spend long days at home? Post a comment below!

Discovery Green, located downtown, is one of the most inclusive free places to enjoy summertime in Houston. It includes two large water features, similar to any local neighborhood splash park… except much, much larger, and a playground area as well. Additionally, there are little remote controlled boats to rent and a snack bar/cafeteria and restrooms.

Visit www.discoverygreen.com for directions and more details, such as fun events held each weekend (and often during the week as well).

Discovery Park was opened in 2008, and I only recently discovered it last October while I was downtown for a conference. Even when it was too cold for the water parks to be open, the playground area was an obvious draw for my two children, ages 4 and 18 months. Add in interactive water areas and they are in hot-Houston heaven.

There is always art on display, which includes art carts and more permanent art. One of the structures, the Mist Tree, is both art and fun â€" my girls love to stand beneath the structure and giggle as the showers come over them.

Discovery Green also has a lake and plenty of green grass to spread out a blanket on and enjoy a picnic, a cold treat from the snack bar, or just to rest after letting the children wear themselves out in the water features and on the playground structure.

The park is open from 6 am until 11 pm every day, with the exception of some areas closing for maintenance as needed. Parking is available around Discovery Green in metered spots, and there is additional paid parking in garages around the area.

Although heading downtown isn’t something I do on a regular basis, Discovery Green is absolutely worth the trip. My daughters love to splash and play, they love the art, and they love the café. I love all of those aspects as well, and I especially love the quiet ride home as the children nod off to naptime.

What about you? Do you frequent Discovery Green? Post a comment!

Last week, I posted a blog about my one big temptation: sugary drinks. Whether it is Kool-Aid, Coke, or sweet tea, I just love to drink anything with lots of sugar and lots of calories.

For years, this has been my primary health weakness, but in the last several months, my love for sugary drinks has gotten a little out of hand.Â

And so a week ago, I decided to try a little experiment. I cut out all drinks except one coffee in the morning (I couldn’t let go of sugar AND caffeine in one week!), and committed to drinking water only for the past week. The hope was that after a week of healthful drinking, I’d be a transformed individual; I would see the err of my healthless drinking and desire only water from here on out.

The experiment didn’t turn out quite that way.  On day one, I took in the right amount of water. And all week long, I stuck to my guns and didn’t drink sugary beverages. But, starting on day two, I also didn’t drink much water. I had promised myself at the beginning of the week that I would be mindful to drink enough water each day, but the idea of a glassful of water just never became appealing. Instead of drinking sugary beverages, I was supposed to be drinking water. But instead, rather than drinking sugary beverages, I drank nothing. (I did drink some water, but not nearly the 8-8 ounce glasses that are recommended.)

Towards days 4 and 5, I ended up with familiar symptoms of dehydration and realized I’d have to step up the ‘forcing myself to drink water’ front. I did, but water never became appealing and I never really stopped wanting to drink something else.

So, in the end, I’m not sure that my experiment proved what I was hoping it would prove. I know I need more water. I know it is healthy for me. I haven’t yet convinced my taste buds of this fact, though.

Do you have any advice regarding staying hydrated? Post a comment below!

With our baby due this already very hot summer I find myself thinking back to a fun pool activity from my childhood. And it’s the perfect example of how the simplest things can bring the most fun. So what is this cool idea? It’s simple, it’s cool, it’s giant ice cubes!

On hot summer days my parents use to take large Tupperware bowls, fill them with water and freeze them. In more recent years when my brother and I would talk about how much we loved those summer days with the giant ice cubes my parents told us that they would put the water-filled bowls in the freezer the night before. So it does take a little planning but the good news is that it won’t go bad. If your swim day gets rained out don’t fret!

When it’s time to swim take out the Tupperware bowls and hold them upside down to slide out the giant ice cube. Be sure to support the ice that will be sliding out so that you don’t drop your new pool toy. We would then take them to our pool in the backyard.

You would be amazed at how much fun swimming and pushing around a giant ice cube can be! It may sound silly but it always brought some cool fun to the pool for my younger brother and I. This is just more proof that you don’t have to spend a lot of money on pool toys to have fun in the pool. Sometimes it is the simplest ideas that will stick with your children. That is how it was for my brother and I. Now as my daughter’s birth quickly approaches my husband and I love to talk about what kind of parents we want to be. One thing I know for sure that we want to do is to introduce our daughter to the little joys of life. In most cases you don’t have to look far to find the fun in a situation. The giant ice cube pool toy idea is a great example of this.

Do you have great ideas for summer fun? Maybe some that you remember from your childhood? Share it with us in a comment!

The Katy Police Department offers a service to help locate lost or abducted children. The Kid ID Â program provides parents with a photo ID card for their children. But this is no ordinary photo ID card.

Sergeant J. L. Field, the police officer in charge of the program for Katy Police Department, says that this card is connected to a national database, which can be accessed by any police department in the U.S. Once all identifying information about your child is collected, it is sent to the KidID.org along with the card information.

My daughter and I had my granddaughter go through the ID card process at the main police department. It took all of 20 minutes. During the process, Sgt. Field took two photos of my granddaughter – one facing the camera and a profile photo. He also took a photo of my daughter (granddaughter's mom) facing the camera. Mom's photo and the profile photo do not appear on the card, but are attached to the profile which is uploaded to the KidID.org data bank.

Sgt. Field took digital fingerprints of my granddaughter's thumb and forefinger on both hands. Field said the digital fingerprints are much clearer than the old ink and paper method for obtaining prints. In fact, they are considered American Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) quality prints. Sgt. Field also collected identifying information including: my granddaughter's name and address, names of her mother and father, and contact numbers for people to be called in case she is located. He also recorded my granddaughter's physical description – height, weight, age, birthday and birthmarks.

All of the information, photos and fingerprints are now uploaded to the KidID.org site, and my daughter has attached her personal password to the account by signing in online as soon as she got home. Sgt. Field printed out two ID cards, one for each parent, that shows my granddaughter's photo and physical description on the front and has the KidID.org site information on the back. Should she get lost or kidnapped – God forbid! – we simply have to present the card to the police officer and he can use KidID.org to help locate her.

The Katy Police Department purchased all of the equipment (computer, digital camera, digital fingerprint attachment, and card printer) a year ago for around $16,000 and have been putting it to very good use since then.

 The ID cards cost nothing – except about 20 minutes of your time for each child. We were able to walk in and get it done on the spot. If you family has 3 or more children, however you may want to make arrangements with Sgt. Field in advance.

The Katy Police Department main station is located at 5456 Franz Road in downtown Katy, about a quarter mile from the Mary Jo Peckham Park. They can be contacted by phone at 281-391-4848 or by E-Mail at [email protected].

If you’re like me, taking your young child to church is not always a prayerful experienceâ€"except it increases the likelihood that YOU’RE praying that your child will behave! Not what the whole church-going experience should be like, I think.

Our son is almost three, and he is barely able to sit and watch a half hour video at home. It takes some work to guide him in his church experience. Distractions aboundâ€"from the people sitting around us to the hymnals in front of us.

How many toysâ€"if anyâ€"do we take with us? Do the books we bring need to be religious in subject? Should we bring food for a Mass that takes only an hour? If he does begin to get fussy, do we grin and bear it or take him to the back? Won’t that teach him to misbehave in the first place? These are the questions we struggle with.

I do NOT have it all figured out, but here are some suggestions. I’m sure you have found some tricks for your own family.

1.)   Choose a worship time that best suits your child’s needs. You may want the contemporary service, but if it falls at the same time your child is used to getting ready for bed, you’re asking a lot of him.

2.)Â Â Â Go to your church during the week. Give your youngster a tour and let him ask questions and see things up close.

3.)   Talk to your child about how you expect people to act at church. You may say something like, “Do you think grown-ups run around the church? What do they do when they want to talk with God? What can you do?”

4.)   In my opinion, having a specific church toy or bag of toys works well. It’s used only on days of worship so it comes to be special and something your child will look forward to playing with. It will also encourage worship since they’re religious items.

These are a few tips. How do you make worship time not only bearable, but faith-filled, with your kids?

Little Layla Grace Marsh touched the lives of thousands with her short life. Layla Grace was diagnosed with cancer when she was 16 months old. Layla, along with her family of mother Shanna, father Ryan, and sisters Claire and Jenna, fought a courageous fight against the disease.Â

During Layla’s battle with cancer, Shanna and Ryan began to use social media, such as twitter, facebook, and a blog, www.laylagrace.org, to share information with her family and friends and to invite people to support Layla through prayer. Because her tweets and blog posts were so real, and because Layla has a contagious smile, the last several months of Layla’s life found her twitter with 45,000 followers (and still growing!)

Layla Grace Marsh passed away on March 9, 2010. Her courageous parents began the Layla Grace Children’s Cancer Research Foundation in her name.  The foundation is Layla’s legacy and supports families of children with cancer and research to end childhood cancer for good.

The Layla Grace Foundation is holding their first fundraiser this upcoming Sunday, June 13th from 12-4 pm at the Northwest Forest Conference Center 12715 Telge Rd. Cypress, TX 77429. The event is called A Taste of Cy-Fair.Â

The event is not far from Katy, and promises to be a fun event for all ages. There are children’s events including face painting, a moon walk, clowns, and craft stations. There will be over 40 local restaurants offering free food and drinks. There will also be live music, shopping, and a silent auction and raffle going on as well.

Tickets are on sale now via the website (www.atasteofcyfair.com) and are $25 for a family of four, $10 per adult, $5 for children ages 5-12, and free for children under 5 years of age. Tickets will be sold at the event but prices go up, so my family plans to purchase the tickets online.

All proceeds from the fair will benefit the Layla Grace Children’s Cancer Research Foundation.

My family plans to go to the event so that we can both support the foundation and enjoy a great day together.Â

What about you? What plans do you have for the upcoming weekend? Post a comment below!

You’ve planned the perfect summer picnic with your kids.. Food, drinks, games – the works. They each invited a friend or two to make a party out of it You no sooner get the picnic packed up in the car, when – Crash! Rumble, rumble. The picnic is called on account of rain. Let's face it, we’ve had a rash of pop-up storms in this first week of June. So what happens when the planned picnic gets rained out? Plan a themed picnic that can be eaten indoors or outdoors, depending on the weather.

For a Beach Picnic, everyone dresses in bathing suits (with cover ups if desired) and either flip-flops or swim shoes. For the decor, spread out beach towels on the sand or on the living room floor. Food can be packed in the ice chest or individual sand-bucket "picnic baskets". Pack the buckets with anything you and your kids like to eat at the beach. Include some mood music for the drive to the beach, or the drive to the living room beach. This could be kids summertime music, the Beach Boys, or sounds of the beach including seagulls and waves.

How about a Teddy Bear's Picnic? This probably one for the girls. Both the teddy bear's and the girls dress up. The picnic table – or the kitchen table – get the table cloth and tea set treatment. The tea party could also be set up on a nice blanket or two. The "tea set" could be plastic or one you won't worry about if something gets broken. Foods include cheese and fruit cut into cubes with party toothpicks, "tea" of your choice, and finger sandwiches (peanut butter and jelly, ham and cheese, or other kid favorites) cut into shapes with cookie cutters. Music can be classical music to set the mood for the trip to the tea party or kids music – starting with the Teddy Bear's Picnic, of course.

Evening picnics are fun too, especially with a flashlight hike afterwards looking for nighttime critters. If it rains, turn it into a drive-in theater picnic. Attire is summer clothes and sandals or sneakers. Either in the garage or in the living room, arrange chairs and a couch into rows as if everyone's sitting in the car. Set up a television with the movie of choice. Food can include hot dogs or chili dogs, fries or chips, beverages in cups with ice and straws, and popcorn.

What other picnic themes can be done inside or outside? Find some picnic themes for boys only and picnics for older kids in junior and senior high.

This week for our summer dessert, my girls and I made watermelon Jello. To be more exact, we made strawberry Jello in a watermelon rind.

I first found the idea at www.theidearoom.blogspot.com, a blog I check on occasion. It’s simple and fun, and Jello is healthier by way of desserts than most of the things I make, so I included it in the summer dessert line-up for my family.

The basic idea is to cut a watermelon down the middle and clean it out. Once the watermelon has been removed (and feasted on!), it is time to make the Jello.

To fill both halves of my ‘personal’ sized watermelon, I used 3 large boxes of strawberry Jello and 4 ¼ cups of boiling water. I whisked them together for 2 minutes and then poured them carefully into the watermelon halves.

It should be noted here that watermelons are round, which means they roll. And pouring boiling water into a round, rolling watermelon rind is not exactly something I’d recommend doing any time, and especially not with little helpers underfoot. This I discovered the hard way.

My solution was to put the watermelon halves into large cereal bowls (luckily for me, they were a perfect fit) â€" no harm done.

The Jello took roughly 4 hours to firm up, so we let it sit overnight and carved it when we had some friends over. The Jello is roughly the consistency of Jello Jigglers and stayed firmly attached to the watermelon rind. It was a striking dessert, and tasted wonderful as well.

My daughters got a kick out of eating something that looked so much like watermelon but that was a sweet dessert instead. It was so easy and inexpensive that I think we’ll use this idea for our Fourth of July cookout as well.

I’m thinking of so many ways this dessert can be extended: I think I will try it with apples in the fall and plan to keep it in mind for other opportunities.

Give this dessert a try and post a comment below!

The day began like any otherâ€"the warm Katy sun gently brightening our bedroom. Its beams lightly danced across the alarm clock that was just about to go off at a leisurely hour. Our son was still sleeping happily in his own bed. The lovely smell of freshly brewed coffee waftedâ€"okay, so I’m lying through my teeth.

Here’s how it happened: our diabetic cat (see a previous blog) still feels the need to eat throughout the night. His next vet appointment is in a few days. So, after being rudely awakened at various hours of the night, here he was again early in the morning. Our toddler son was also at our bedside with his new exclamation, “I need food.” Wonderful.

The day’s agenda loomed in my mind: “Doctor appointment at 9:30; haircut at 10:30, and then to work. Oh, is there a way to visit the triplets in the NICU today? We’re going out of town, we can’t visit tomorrow, we need to go. Need to get gas in the car and pick up a few grocery items.”

Coffee can wait. How many of us feel similar most days? What can we do to stay sane?

Organization will only take you so far. I have learned two of the best words that will make your life a little easier: “Help” and “No.”

The cat can be fed by both son and husband, as well as myself. Our hungry tot can messily pour himself some juice and grab a banana. That will be a good start for his breakfast. The haircut and the doctor’s appointment cannot be rescheduled againâ€"that is a necessity. The triplets cannot visit us, and that is a necessity. So this is where asking for help becomes important. The babysitter can watch our son who is too young to enter the NICU and we can go spend some valuable time with them. Oh, and we can pick up some groceries on the way home.

I have learned the hard wayâ€"by getting sick, rushing around, ignoring myself and my family’s needsâ€"that no one can do it all. We need a support system. We need to say “no” to extrasâ€"taking over the class play, being homeroom mom or dad, exercising for an hour seven days a week. We can’t say “no” to our necessitiesâ€"paying bills, work, worshipping, family.

How have you learned the difference between extras and have-to’s? I’d love to hear from you, and I’ll do my best to respond!

Technological advances allow for a wealth of knowledge to be readily available. Any inquiry that arises from the young questioning mind can easily be researched on the internet and explored. What a great asset this technology is as we try to teach our children.

It would seem plausible that children would be smarter than ever before since information is literally at their fingertips. Unfortunately, this doesn’t seem to be the case. So much is available, that often the wrong types of information and technology squash the young, fertile mind.

I recently read an article in Time magazine on children and media consumption. The article stated that children ages 8 to 18 are consuming more media than ever before. A survey showed that children and teens are now using their phones, computers, TVs and video systems for a total of 7.5 hours a day, or 52.5 hours a week. The study also showed that the only leisure activity that has become less popular is reading.

After reading the article, I wondered if I was fostering a love of learning in my children.  Am I providing them with a wealth of good media choices in books, music and technology? Am I aware of the media choices my children are making? Am I helping my children limit excessive use of media that provides little to no benefit to them? Since there is no shortage of available media options, it seems necessary that we as parents work to foster the consumption of the best kinds of media.

I was chagrined to find that the popularity of reading as a leisure activity is slipping. I have long felt that children, who love reading, excel in school. Reading indeed opens the mind in ways that no other media medium can. So, with summer here, may we all join the library summer reading program and help each of our little ones develop a lifelong love of learning!

How do you foster a love of learning in your home? Please share a comment.

I recently asked my seven-year old to help me with some housework. Immediately, he peered at me and said, “How much are you going to pay me?”  I could tell by his tone, that he was weighing whether or not it was worth doing the job by how much he would be compensated. To his question, I replied, “I am not going to pay you anything. Sometimes we work just to be helpful. Work is fun, and often it is most fun when we do it without expecting anything in return.”

My response had clearly surprised him. He sat and thought for a minute and then said, “So, you aren’t going to pay me to do these jobs?”Â

“No.” I said. “Today, you are simply going to help me because you are a member of the Lewis family, and there is work that needs to be done.”Â

Slowly he looked up at me and said, “Ok. What do you want me to do?”

For the next hour, we worked side by side washing dishes, dusting, straightening, and talking. I asked him about his school work, his friends, and his hopes for the summer. Time flew by because we weren’t focused on the work, but each other.Â

As we stood back and admired our clean home, I said, “Thanks for all of your hard work. Did you like helping me clean the house?”

He responded, “I like earning money, but I guess sometimes, I will just help because you need it. I can see that you are happy, and that makes me feel good."Â

I smiled at him and thought, Yes- a moment of triumph! The value of work is indeed priceless!

How do you teach your children the value of hard work? Please post a comment.

My daughter decided to do ballet as her extra-curricular activity this year, but she loves bouncing around in the gym. Â Â Luckily for her, our mothering club, AMOK (All Moms of Katy) and Westwood Gym teamed up to offer Gym Day once a month.

Through AMOK, my daughter is given the chance each month to participate in a 45 minute gym class. Our club has worked out an arrangement with Westwood Gym that allows children in the club to pay a small fee and participate in gym classes without any other sort of contract.

My daughter and her friends (ages 3 and 4) love Gym Day! It is actually my daughter, Avery’s favorite day of the month. The coaches are friendly, fun, and obviously well trained.Â

Avery starts off with warm ups cleverly disguised as fun dances and games. Then she has the opportunity to participate in gymnastic skills all over the gym floor. She loves the trampolines, the uneven bars, bear crawling on a balance beam, and floor rotations that allow her the chance to climb, jump, and bounce to her heart’s content.  The last few minutes of class every month, Avery has the opportunity to play in a special area that is set up to look like a mountain. It has slides, climbing walls and a pit.

Because we’ve been able to experience gymnastics through Gym Day with AMOK and Westwood Gym, Avery has decided that next year, she’ll give ballet a rest and take gymnastics instead. Clearly, for Westwood Gym, this is a great opportunity to let parents and children alike in on their gymnastics magic. And for AMOK, it is a wonderful opportunity to let members enjoy a day at the gym.

If you are interested in Gym Day, consider joining AMOK (email Stephanie at [email protected]) or consider contacting a local gym and setting up a similar partnership with your mothering club.

What other activities do you enjoy with your child? Post a comment below!

Yesterday launched the first day of Hurricane season. If your family wants to learn more about how to be prepared in a hurricane or how these massive storms form then the Houston Weather Museum is the place for you. During the month of June Thursdays are free for all museum guests. Talk to meteorologists and learn about the function and history of hurricanes in the gulf. And there are prizes involved as well. All visitors can enter to win a hurricane kit and weather radio donated by Midland Radio.

“Believe it or not we need hurricanes, states meteorologist and The Weather Museum Executive Director Jill Hasling. “The hurricane is one mechanism by which nature releases the tremendous buildup of heat in the tropics. Hurricanes also are the mechanism to bring tropical moisture into the farm lands of the central United States and often breaking droughts.” Hurricanes are useful and don’t need to be feared. As long as your family is prepared then you will be ready. There are many ways to get ready for such a powerful storm such as Ike that Houston endured last time a hurricane breached our coast. The Houston Weather Museum can help you get ready.

One thing to keep in mind is to always have an evacuation plan. If a large hurricane is heading our way will you stay? Or do you know where you will go? My husband and I plan to take any approaching hurricane as an opportunity to visit friends. We already know where we will go once we are sure that our house is properly boarded and secure for the storm. Of course our dog will be coming as well but if you plan to stay be sure to bring all pets inside.

It may be wise to buy wood and pre-cut your window coverings in advance. Buy and do the work now so that you won’t have to stress and rush to get it done if you need it. And if we escape a major storm this year then you will always be ready for future seasons!

Always make sure that you have some non-perishable food and water in stock during hurricane season. Of course go buy more of these supplies when a storm is in the Gulf but at least you won’t be too stressed if there is a shortage. Also, make sure that all of your vehicles are filled with gas prior to a storm arriving. This way if you need to leave after the storm to seek shelter you won’t have to worry about getting gas. Gas is another item that frequently is in high demand during such events.

If you or anyone if your family have medical needs make sure that you have plenty of medication and supplies before a storm hits or before you evacuate. If you have pets it is always smart to have a copy of the rabies and shots record. During the storm it is also smart to keep you pets on leashes and close at hand.

These are just a few of many things that you should keep in mind while preparing for this years hurricane season. Be sure to pick up your KHOU Hurricane Season guide at any Randall’s or State Farm office. Remember to visit the Houston Weather Museum to get prepared for this year’s season and to learn all about nature’s greatest storms. Make this an educational and informative time for your family. And you can even visit the museum for free every Thursday this month.

Did your family do anything that you feel was different and affective for the last hurricane that you feel others could benefit from this season? Share it with us in a comment.

National Trails Day is June 5, this Saturday and is targeted at getting people outside, on trails and walking or hiking. The Houston area offers many picturesque settings for just this occasion.

If you love your dog then take them with you and enjoy some great food at the Houston Arboretum and Nature’s Center’s Annual Tails on Trails. The arboretum, one of Houston’s best trails, invites dogs on leashes and their owners for an afternoon of hiking the arboretum trails that wind along an 155 acre of lush lands and a vast variety of wildlife.

Before your hiking journey pick up water and a doggy bag. After the hike return to the party for food provided by Freebirds World Burrito and Smartwater. There will also be music and prices. For more information on the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center visit their website.

We are fortunate to live in a metropolis that offers so many great parks. You have plenty of options and many are free to celebrate National Trails Day. Hermann Park Downtown has some wonderful walking trails. Also downtown you will find Discovery Green. This Saturday Discovery Green is offering two great free events for families to enjoy with their children. Listen to the Young Harmonies Houston at 12pm. Learn about insects and other bugs with Jungle Jim from 1-2pm.

If you want a more local park look around your community and I’m sure you won’t have to look far. In the Katy area enjoy a stroll around LaCenterra. Every Saturday you can find great produce at their farmers market.

Pack a picnic basket and go out to your local school’s playground. Fly a kite. Really your options are endless. So get your family together. Get the kids away from that Xbox and spend the day outside or hiking a trail this Saturday for the National Trails Day.

I rank among the middle of the crowd when we’re talking about health. My family and I eat healthy meals for the most part, we don’t stock our kitchen with processed foods, and we are careful to keep trans fats out and saturated fats to a healthy level.

However, when it comes to staying hydrated, I really struggle to be healthy.

I’ve spent most of my life detesting water. It’s just so… boring. And tasteless. And unattractive.

In order to get myself to drink water, I’ve tried many different tactics: for a while, I only allowed myself something delicious to drink (like a cola or tea) after I’d had a full glass of water first. I’ve tried adding lemon to my water, and I’ve even tried using a shot of Kool-Aid to make water more appealing.

Most often, I give up and end up drinking fair amounts of colas, teas, and Kool-Aid. Not healthy, I know,

Last night, I was considering this issue I have and how it is one of the primary things keeping me from being wholly healthy.Â

And so, I’m committing myself to a week-long trial run. It is possible that water doesn’t appeal to me because I’ve always had other options, and because I’ve never really allowed water the time to satisfy my thirst.

Starting today, I am committing to drinking only water and milk (besides my mandatory morning coffee) for a week straight. And, since it is in my nature to just stop drinking if I don’t like what there is available, I am also committing to drinking the right amount of water each day for a week. At the week’s end, next Wednesday, I will assess my attitude towards water and hope to find that, given a fair shot, water can be just as appealing as my favorite sugar-drinks.

I’ll check back in next week and let you know how it went. I’m fully expecting that once my system gets a taste of what it is like to enjoy health, I will never want to go back. Here’s hoping!

What about you? What tricks do you use to help you stay hydrated? Post a comment below!

In a little over a week, I will be attending a family reunion. We have decided to go on an Alaskan Cruise- the most exciting and elaborate reunion we have ever had. As much as I am excited to go on the cruise, what really excites me is the uniting of loved ones for an entire week. I have three sisters, whom I adore, and I can’t wait to be with them. I am enamored with my nieces and nephews as well, and I know the cousins may have the best time of all. In addition to my sisters and their families, I have wonderful parents, an amazing grandmother and a fabulous aunt who will be joining us on the cruise.

When it comes right down to it, I think that the relationships we have are our most prized possessions. I for one, wouldn’t trade my family for anything! As I think about family, I think of the many vicissitudes of life. We have all had struggles from time to time, and we have helped each other through the difficult times. Though life is ever changing, family can and should be our rock that we lean on when times get tough.Â

While growing up, my family created some fun traditions. We decided it was necessary to decide on a family dance, family word and a family dialect. We have always loved to laugh together and enjoy  re-telling funny stories from years gone by. Family get-togethers also include gathering around the piano and singing together.Â

I wonder what it will be like when my children are all grown and have families of their own. Will my children be as close to each other as I am to my siblings? I hope I am fostering closeness in our home and that they will be each other’s best friends.  So, Alaska, here we come! I can hardly wait!

How do you foster family closeness? Please share!

It's been a beautiful spring, with endless days of sunshine. The summer promises more of the same fabulous bike riding weather. Before the kids hop on their bikes and ride off into the sunshine, Â it's time for one of those periodic bike safety chats. Accidents happen, and none of us wants to be the parent sitting with their kids in the emergency room with a bike related injury.

First, since head injuries are the most serious, bikers should always protect their head by wearing a helmet. The helmet should meet safety regulations, be the right size, and be worn properly. Next keep the kids’ bikes in good shape. A chain that keeps slipping off or breaks that don't work is a recipe for problems.

Kids should know the safety rules of the road. They should always keep an eye out for cars. A driver might not see your child until it's too late, but if they are in the habit of being aware of cars, they can prevent accidents. The next one may not see so obvious. They should watch out for people so they don't have an accident with a walker or another child playing in the yard. Parents should set and enforce the rules for where their children can ride bicycles, but in general it's best if children under 10 keep to the sidewalks.

Finally our kids should also know the proper hand signals, so they can let drivers know what they intend to do:

There are a few more tips about "Bike Safety" at the Kids Health website at: http://kidshealth.org/kid/watch/out/bike_safety.html.

Also check out the Katy Police Department. The Department offers free bike safety coloring books at the police station. There is also a "Bicycle Registration Form" available on their website at: http://www.katypd.com/Bicycle%20Safety/Bicycle%20Registration%20Form.htm.

Fill out the form and take it into the police station with pictures of your children's bikes. What other bicycling safety tips do you know of? Are there special rules for your family that others might find helpful?

Twitter is an easy way to follow the information that you want without too much effort. Businesses are seeing this growing trend and using it to build their followers. I’m an at home freelance journalist so I follow many businesses and people on Twitter to help find topics and what is of public interest. But recently I discovered that what began as a business tactic is quickly becoming an avenue for finding family fun!

In my writing I cover a lot of events so I follow all the popular Katy and Houston area event venues. By doing so I’ve found that most of them offer special coupons and specials for their Twitter followers!

The Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Houston Symphony are taking this a step further by hosting a special event for their Twitter followers. This Friday, June 4 if you follow them on Twitter you can join them for a special night with a private viewing of the Hubble IMAX 3D and a special performance by the Houston Symphony at their first ever Tweetup event.

 Guests will get to enjoy the show and the performance at a special discounted price. Plus there will be light bites and drinks for all to enjoy while you mix and mingle with fellow Twitterers. They will also have access to Twitter so guests can tweet before and after the events. For more information on this event you can visit the Facebook evite http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=106708386041974&ref=mf or follow either the Houston Museum of Natural Science @hmns or the Houston Symphony @housymphony both on Twitter.

It just takes a little bit of time to set yourself up to follow the things that interests you and your family. Follow them on Twitter and take a few minutes each day to glance over what they are tweeting. You never know when you may find a great coupon or a special event that will make for a fun family event this summer.

If you follow any Katy/Houston area venues that you feel others should follow as well please tell us about it in a comment!

The beginning of hurricane season brings with it many stressors. Two of the biggest are the hassles of hurricane preparedness and the worries of helping young children understand and cope with what's happening. So how can parents make this easier for themselves and their children? By getting the kids involved in the process.

First, have your children help compile 2 lists: the first contains hurricane supplies that your family will need, the second contains the nonperishable foods your family would like to eat. Next, send the children on a hurricane scavenger hunt around the house. Let them see how many of the items they can find on the hurricane supply list. After that, let them help you check the supplies to see what needs replacing (like batteries) and what still needs items are missing from the list (i.e. radio, first aid kit). After all, even small children can check flashlight batteries and light bulbs to see if they need replacing. Do the same with the hurricane food list.

Second, assemble your hurricane supply box. You may need to get a couple boxes from one of the moving supply stores or mini-storage places that sell boxes. Have the kids help fill the boxes with emergency supplies. Save at least one box for foods, paper plates, garbage bags, cooking and eating utensils and anything you will need for meals.

Third, have older children help locate the safest room in your house and even help with an evacuation plan. Should your family needs to evacuate however, parents will need to have an evacuation plan and evacuation route ready. The kids can help load the car since they already know where the supplies and food are collected together. Including them in the planning should lower their stress levels somewhat because they know what's going on and because they are helping out.

Older kids can help with hurricane tracking charts. These are available from all the major stations here in town, so go online and request one now. You can even download them from each of the stations websites. Chars are also offered through just about every grocery and hardware store as well. What about letting younger children track storms? That depends on the child. Only parents will know which of their younger children can handle this job. You’ll have to decide this on an individual basis. Either way, track each new storm with a different color ink pen or start a new map for each new storm – just to make it easier to tell storms apart.

Finally, once the emergency is over, why not get your family involved in the cleanup and recovery. Your family efforts could be something as small as checking on an elderly neighbor or offering food to a stranger. Or it could be something like volunteering at a Red Cross shelter or clearing debris around town. What other preparations or cleanup efforts can your family do together?

NOAA Hurricane Supply List: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/HAW2/english/prepare/supply_kit.shtml

 NOAA  Hurricane Disaster Plan: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/HAW2/english/prepare/family_plan.shtml

Local Stations all have printable hurricane tracking maps and information:

 KTRK, Channel 13: http://abclocal.go.com/ktrk/feature?section=weather/hurricane&id=6139670

KPRC, Channel 2: http://www.click2houston.com/hurricanetracker/index.html

KHOU, Channel11:Â http://www.khou.com/weather/severe-weather/hurricane-center/Printable-tracking-chart-67771777.html

Last night, I participated in my first ever Bake and Take. The concept was first presented to me by a friend, and it sounded like so much fun that we decided to organize a Bake and Take with our church, The Waters Church (www.iamthewaters.com).

A Bake and Take is like a cookie swap â€" except all of the baking takes place together!Â

We gathered with around 15 ladies from our church and created ten amazing dessert recipes. There was a station with the needed ingredients, recipe and kitchen appliances and utensils laid out for each of the ten recipes. As women arrived, they chose a station and worked in twos, threes and fours to complete the recipe. Some recipes did not need to bake, and those that did shared the oven without issue. (When I was first thinking through this type of an event, I couldn’t imagine that much baking with one oven… but it really did work out amazingly well.)

The recipes we made included lemon bars, peanut butter and chocolate cookies, Chex mix “puppy chow”, rainbow cupcakes, caramel brownies, pretzel Rolos, chocolate covered strawberries, marshmallows, and pretzels, Oreo balls, cupcake balls, and toffee.Â

While the recipes baked, and in between helping at tables, there was plenty of time to munch on snacks and chat about our weeks and plans for the weekend. Within 4 hours, each recipe was done.

At the end of the evening, all of the completed recipes were laid out on a table and the women took some of each in a to-go container.Â

A wonderful thing about the Bake and Take was that everyone stayed to help clean up â€" and it only took an hour! For 10 full recipes, each with their own dirty dishes, the clean up was a cinch.

I can’t wait to do this event again â€" it was such a wonderful evening of baking, taste-testing, and being with beloved friends!

What about you? What is your favorite ladies’ night out idea? Post a comment below!

I have never been the type of person who likes to run. In fact, up until last year, I despised running. It was something I did merely for the health value, but I am not like those people who enjoy running for the sake of running.

However, once we had our second child, we decided it was time to let our gym membership go to save money.  For a while, I didn’t exercise much. But, for me, exercise is about knowing I’m doing what I can to stay healthy, to have strong lungs and a strong heart so that I can be my best for my children.

Since I’m not a runner, and since my husband and I stay very busy, I knew that there would have to be something bigger than just “today I should run” to keep me on track. So, last year around this time, I searched the internet for 5K runs in the Houston area and found one at Space Center Houston that is held each July. I decided to train for it, and found online guides to becoming 5K ready in 6-8 weeks.

My favorite training guide, by a man named Hal Higdon, gives a daily exercise: running, walking, or a day of rest. It gives the mileage for the day as well. It’s perfect for me because I can mindlessly follow his guide and know I will be ready to run a 5K by the race day.

Last year when I was training for the 5K was the first time I’d ever run more than 2 miles at a time and it was the first time I’ve ever actually looked forward to my daily run. The training guide is set up so that I was always challenged but that I also was never unable to complete the run.Â

After the 5K I ran last July, I intended to sign up for another race to keep me on track. However, busy lives got in the way. Without a race on the horizon to look to, my health once again fell by the wayside.

We’re now 6 weeks out from the same annual race at Space Center Houston, and I’ve signed myself up for it again this year. I’m a week into my training schedule and already I remember how much I love training.

The jogging part will probably never be easy for me, nor will it be the primary draw. But while I am training, my husband watches the kids while I get my run in. My running time is all mine: I can listen to a podcast, jam to my favorite music, or just be alone with my thoughts and with relative silence. I also love the daily sense of accomplishment and the goal that I have to work towards.

This year, my plan is to train for the 5K in July and then stay in 5K mode so that I can run the last part of the Katy Triathalon with my husband. He races the entire race, and while that is still not something I am ready to commit to, I think it will be a great support and motivator for me to be able to run the last leg with him.

How about you? How do you stay motivated to be healthy? Post a comment below!

This Memorial Day Weekend don’t stress about finding the right Houston area event for you and your family. You can stay right here in Katy and have lots of family fun time and for little cost. Unfortunately, since I’m seven months pregnant I’m avoiding the outdoors like the swine flu but this great weather is the perfect time for families to get out. Get your kids away from the video game systems and computers and outside!

Pack a picnic basket. Get the family involved in making sandwiches that they will like, chips and cookies, etc. Take an old blanket and pick a local park or school playground for your picnic location. Plan ahead some fun activities. Take a football to throw, a kite to fly or a board game. But don’t forget the sunblock!!

Looking for some new ideas to brighten up your picnic basket cuisine? Look online for recipes. The Food Network is always a great place to start, http://www.foodnetwork.com/. Another one of my quick recipe finding sites is Williams-Sonoma, http://www.williams-sonoma.com/. Just click to recipes and you will be amazed at what you can find.

If the weather gets to warm for you don’t forget to get in the pool! Either your own or go find a community pool for some splashing fun. If you want to go out don’t forget to visit http://www.lacenterra.com/ to see what is happening on their event calendar. Today and tomorrow nights you can find live music at the Baker Street Pub. Be creative and look around our town Katy. There is always something fun to do.

If you do go with the picnic idea take pictures to immortalize your family outing and enjoy the time together. With summer camps and activities summer time quickly can become just another hectic season where families do not get to spend as much time together as they should. Take this opportunity and enjoy the time together. What is your family doing this holiday weekend? Share it with us in a comment!

Last Sunday morning, The Waters Church (www.iamthewaters.com) did something bold. During announcements, Finance Pastor Andrew Sunderman stood before the congregation and presented an opportunity.

The opportunity is for families within the church to support and pray for Assimilation Pastor Brad Graves as he begins his journey towards health. For many years, Graves has struggled with maintaining a healthy weight. On Sunday, Sunderman said, "I love Brad so much, and his struggle tears me up inside. I want Brad to be here, ministering to us, for many many years to come. And this is our opportunity to love him and challenge him towards becoming a wholly healthy Brad.”

The Waters Church has issued Brad Graves this challenge: lose as much weight as he can towards his final goal during the next six months and keep it off for a year. Members of the church are given the opportunity to pledge an amount of money per pound. This money will go towards funding a very unique and important ministry opportunity that Brad Graves has been given the chance to participate in.

On Father’s Day 2010, Brad Graves's beginning weight will be announced. Between now and then, families within the church are asked to pray about their involvement. On Father’s Day, each family will be given the opportunity to pledge an amount of money per pound towards the ministry opportunity. One family in the church has already committed to $100 per pound lost, with others weighing in in amounts ranging from $0.50 to $10.00 per pound lost. Â

Through the year, The Waters Church will surround Graves with love, encouragement, and support as he travels a challenging but fulfilling road to healthful living. During the year, Graves will be covered in prayers from the members of his church and will have men who are as close as brothers stand arm in arm with him to recover his health. Six months from Father’s Day, Graves will weigh in again and the amount that he has lost will be the amount to be donated. If he has lost 100 pounds, each family will plan their donation per their pledge on that amount of weight.Â

On Father’s Day 2011, Graves will stand before his church family and weigh in again. In order for the donations to be made, Graves will need to have kept off the weight loss from his six month weigh in. At that time, families will donate according to their ability and their pledges towards this unbelievable ministry opportunity.Â

Lead Pastor of The Waters Church, Clint Paschall, told the congregation on Sunday, “We won’t be announcing what the ministry opportunity is just yet. But when you hear it, you will be amazed at how perfectly matched Brad is for this opportunity.”Â

Graves says of this new journey, “The number one reason I want to lose this weight is so that I can be all I can be for my wife. My number two reason is so that I can be a better dad, and the third reason is so that I can be a great pastor to my church family. When I try to wrap my brain around this thing, when I think of the way my entire church has stepped up and is supporting me, it absolutely blows my mind. It is just beyond words.”Â

As a member of The Waters Church, I am excited to take this journey with Brad Graves. Our family is currently praying about how much we will pledge per pound.Â

What about you? What creative ways does your church show love and support? Post a comment below!

Marriage has indeed made me a better person. Not that I wasn’t a decent person before I got married, but, marriage tends to highlight areas that can be improved. Any time two people from different backgrounds come together and form a life together, there are bound to be adjustments that need to be made. I have learned many lessons as my husband and I have journeyed down the road of life together. As different as we are, we seem to bring out the best in each other.   Here are a few of the lessons learned:

Forgive Quickly and Move On– My natural reaction to conflict was to become quiet and withdraw. I learned, however, that when I do this, it prolongs the conflict. The faster I forgive and forget, the faster we return to peace. Then, we can happily move on.

Make Time for Play– I am a driven, goal-oriented person. If it weren’t for my husband, I might never stop to smell the roses. My husband has helped me prioritize fun in my life. Our whole family has benefitted from this!

Ask For Help– How many times do we as women expect that our husbands will read our minds? I have learned that my husband wants me to be happy. All I need to do is communicate what I need, and he is happy to help or do what I want! Isn’t that terrific? He is a great husband. I simply need to ask and my request is granted.

Correct With Kindness– No one likes to be criticized- even when the criticism has merit. So, it does us all good to couch our criticism in the most loving way possible. Another rule of thumb that has been helpful is to give at least ten compliments for every one negative comment.

Laugh A Lot– We laugh a lot in our home and I am grateful for a husband who makes us all laugh! It is fun!

What lessons have you learned in your marriage? Post a comment!

I’ve stayed at home with my girls since my oldest was born almost 4 years ago. And throughout my journey in mothering, I’ve been a part of one mothering club or another in the Katy area.Â

I am very thankful for a friend who drug me to meetings in the very beginning. I was still bleary eyed, smelling of spit up, and bloated from delivery when my girlfriend began calling and asking me to join her as we scoped out local mothering clubs. It felt a bit unnecessary at the time (my baby not being but 5 weeks old), but her encouragement, and the subsequent relationships I formed from joining a mothering club, made all of the difference in the world.

In the beginning, being a part of a club (in my case, I chose All Moms of Katy “AMOK”) helped me with the common feelings of new moms: feeling alone, feeling exhausted, feeling like life changed instantaneously. As my children grew and are now able to participate in the activities that the club has to offer, we’re all better off for days spent with AMOK.

This past Tuesday, we went to the monthly club meeting â€" this time, at Mary Jo Peckham park. The children played, then enjoyed an enormous potluck lunch. Next came a scavenger hunt and kite flying… and while we were following our children around and they were engrossed in the activities, we were able to spend some adult conversation time, as well.

There are many different mothering clubs in Katy, and each has something unique to offer to parents. All Moms of Katy has been a great fit for me because there are children the same ages as my children, the activities are varied and entertaining to my children, and the women are friendly, open, and helpful. I am thankful for AMOK because it helped me stave off the baby blues in the beginning and has allowed me to grow into a more active role as my children participate in and enjoy the field trips and meetings.

What about you? Do you have a mothering club that you love? Post a comment below!

My daughter has been a self-proclaimed dancer since before she was two. She loves to twirl and twist to music, and is especially fond of mimicking the dancers on So You Think You Can Dance. When she turned three (at the beginning of this school year), I enrolled her in Creative Dance at Adamson Ballet School.Â

This past weekend, a year’s worth of dance classes culminated in a 2 minute performance on stage. And my daughter could not have been more elated by the whole experience.

Adamson Ballet School has classes ranging from my daughter’s 3 year old Creative Dance class all the way up through Pointe and Senior-Level Ballet classes. Sitting in the recital as a mother of the youngest dancers there, I felt very emotional and connected to the experience. In the same performance that my daughter makes her dancing debut, several other moms are saying goodbye to this chapter of their life.Â

The opening performance was done by Pointe students to a beautiful orchestra arrangement of Coldplay songs. It was moving, stirring, and poignant for me to sit there with my 3 year old, watching the beginning and the end.

My daughter’s class was later in the show, and my eyes filled with just as many tears… there was a good deal of comic relief when my daughter (or any number of her classmates) forgot their steps, but there was something that affected me deeply as I watched my tiny little girl, up on the big stage, doing something so grown up without any adults. It was such a picture to me of what we’re just embarking on â€" the way that she will continue to grow and mature into a little lady who no longer needs her Mommy. The years between now and then are many, but they are flying by so quickly already. This weekend’s recital was a very real reminder to me that I am doing my job: teaching my daughter to slowly and healthfully not need me anymore, day by day, until she is ready to take on the world.

And on that stage, take on the world she did.

Thank you, Adamson Ballet School, for a beautiful, hilarious, and poignant recital.

What about you? Are end of year activities causing reflection? Post a comment below!

Only a few more days until the end of the school year. How long will the excitement of being off for the summer last before it dwindles into that all-too-familiar "mo-o-o-om, I’m bored" whining? A little planning ahead can yield a laundry list of boredom-busting pastimes sure to keep most kids occupied at something other than plopping in front of the TV or video game.

If your family is planning a vacation, why not add "vacation memory box" creating to the planning process. (Think shoe box here). Have each child decorate their own box however they see fit. At the end of the vacation, they can collect together all of the trinkets, postcards, photographs and other memorabilia they acquired on vacation and place them in their memory box. Have them tuck the boxes away for the next rainy day. The memory boxes can be pulled out time and again, providing them with hours of enjoyment recollecting the fun they had on that trip – long after the trip has ended.

Indoor activities might include arts and crafts around the kitchen table with modeling clay, tempera paints, paper grocery bags or whatever you have on hand that lends itself to cutting and gluing and painting. How about dress-up day – especially for the younger kids – complete with a tea party or a living room fort made from kitchen chairs and old sheets. There is always a trip to the library for story time, or just to check out books for reading late into the night – by flashlight, of course. The best part of this is it only costs the time it takes to go to the library. The books cost nothing and you get to return the books after the kids are done reading them.

There are so many outdoor games and activities, the list could go on for days. Any kind of game involving a ball is sure to be a hit. How about 4-square, volleyball or kickball? Fun without a ball might mean getting into the swing of a hoolahoop  or flying high with a Frisbee or  kite. Better yet, how about games that involve water? When my kids were young they always liked tossing water balloons or playing squirt gun tag. One of their favorites, besides a trip to the community pool,  was playing in the sprinkler. If you’re worried about paying high water bills or concerned about water conservation (we are starting the summer with a rainfall deficit, after all) then include the kids in helping to conserve water. Let one keep track of the time they play in the sprinkler, another gets to turn the sprinkler on, and another gets to turn the sprinkler off.

I’ll be helping to take care of my granddaughter over the summer. If anyone has some other ideas, for keeping a 5 year old entertained over the summer, I’m all ears.

This May, we decided to make a summery dessert each week to celebrate the season. I wanted to keep the desserts healthy and fun, and so week one we made a pudding ocean scene <http://www.katymagazine.com/summer-dessert-fun/ >.  This week, my daughter got very excited about watermelon carving, and so our dessert of the week was a watermelon basket with fruit salad. If she knows that watermelon and fruit salad aren’t exactly desserts… she’s not complaining!

This was one of those family projects that seemed to go wrong at every turn. Luckily, our daughters didn’t seem to care and we were able to pull it together in the end.

First, I bought the watermelon and all the fruit early last week and promised my daughter the watermelon basket “this week”. Then our week got unusually busy (the last week of school and extra evening meetings for my husband and I), so our watermelon carving kept getting pushed back.

Last night, we were determined to carve the watermelon. I helped my daughter find a few examples online <http://www.watermelon.org/watermelon_carving.asp >of what she wanted to carve, I cut up the other fruits, and when my husband got home, we were all ready to go. Except no one could find the watermelon. It wasn’t in the fridge, it wasn’t in the pantry, it wasn’t in my car. We assumed I must’ve forgotten to load it from the grocery store early last week and so we told the girls that watermelon carving would be the very first thing on our list of things to do in the morning (thinking one of us would be rushing out to the store after bed).

Once the girls were in bed, we found the watermelon. In our ice chest. In the garage. It looked fine to us, so we put it aside to wait for the official watermelon carving this morning.

After breakfast, as we began to carve, we noticed a few… let’s call them “extra ripe” sections of the watermelon. Which made for a bit of a challenge carving the basket with a heart that my daughter had chosen.

A few toothpicks later, we had a watermelon basket with fruit salad for “dessert” and two very happy children.

I love this project idea and know that the next go-round will be much smoother. Maybe we’ll make it again soon.

What about you? Have you carved watermelons before? How did it go? Post a comment below!

And so do I!

I love The Little Gym because my 18 month old daughter Kate’s face lights up when we walk through the doors. There are so many reasons that I love this place… and so many reasons that it has become my favorite hour of the week. It's because it is a special hour designed for us to spend together, just the two of us. With a big sister at home, Kate spends most of her time following us around to “big kid” activities. Even when I am careful to focus on Kate, she doesn’t have the space to come alive while under the shadow of a very loving â€" and helpful â€" sister. At The Little Gym, Kate works on independence and self-esteem but it is also time for us to spend bonding. When we have a chance to interact, I am able to capture those moments between she and I and cling to them (and to her) with so much gratitude. During the times Kate is participating in more independent activities, I am able to step back and marvel at the things she knows and how she interacts with other children her age. These are things I long to know about my second-born but don’t always have the ability to observe while facilitating life for both of my children. The  activities are so uniquely crafted to Kate’s age and the focus is so much about the experience and the process, rather than the actual skills and where she is on the developmental scale. For Kate, her love for The Little Gym is much more obvious: she loves the bells. She loves the bubbles. She loves the balls. She loves the parachute. She loves the exploring time, the forward rolls and straddle rolls, the high bars the obstacle courses. She loves her teacher and she loves the routines and being able to anticipate what comes next.

 I knew that we would love The Little Gym but it just wasn’t in the budget. So, for Kate’s 1 year (and now her 2 year) birthday, we asked family members for money to pay for this activity rather than for toys. Since she has a big sister who enjoys most of the same things she does, she is not lacking for toys. Plus, as much as she enjoys The Little Gym, I think she’d happily trade a new doll for a class at The Little Gym any day!

What about you? Do you have a favorite activity of your week? Post a comment below!

I had a wonderful, leisurely lunch with some girlfriends today. I know this sounds like an oxymoron since I have an 18 month old, but with all of our toddlers in tow, we sat at the table and chatted and enjoyed chips and salsa.

How did we do this? We situated ourselves at a table near the sandbox at El Jarrito on Highland Knolls Drive. The children enjoyed chips and their bean salsa, inexpensive kid’s meals, and an enormous sandbox while we ate at our own pace.

Usually, taking either of my children to a restaurant is a challenge. Unless we go to Rainforest Café, it is unusual for them to stay entertained the entire time we’re there. However, around the time my oldest daughter turned two, I discovered the magical world of sandboxes at restaurants. Now, when my parents ask us to join them for dinner, or when we want to catch up with an old friend, we know just what to do. We suggest one of a handful of places that were brilliant enough to install a play area.

In addition to El Jarrito, we also frequent Victor’s Casa Garcia on North Fry Road, Café del Sol on Franz Road, Willie’s Ice House on The Katy Freeway at Fry Road, and Clay’s Restaurant on Clay Road.Â

We live further out in West Katy, but these restaurants are worth the drive for us because the children are entertained the entire time: from choosing our food, to ordering, to eating… all the way to paying the check, our children are happily playing.   Sure, there is a little mess to contend with, and yes, we do have to wash hands very well before the children eat, but these are small inconveniences compared with finding ways to beat boredom in other restaurants.

We’re always searching for other locations to take our family. Do you have a place your family loves to go? Post a comment below!

The school year is drawing to a close and it seems that life is as busy and chaotic as ever! As a parent, sometimes life can be stressful and at times, more than we can handle. One day, I had an “aha” moment when I learned that I didn’t need to absorb the stress of my loved ones. As I think about it now, I can remember the pit in my stomach, the rapid breathing, and the threatening headaches as my children shared their stress. “Mom, I’m supposed to bring a red folder to school. I’ll get in trouble if I don’t have it! Mom, did you wash my soccer shirt? I need it right now! Mom, I failed my English test today. Mom, can you bring me my lunch? I think I left it in the kitchen.”

My, oh my, how my body would tense with the incessant stress! And, when things turned out badly, I blamed myself. It didn’t matter that it was my daughter who had left her lunch, or my son who hadn’t studied for his test, it was now my stress. After many years of learning, I discovered a marvelous secret. I discovered that I could let my children own their own stress! It was no longer my stress…heaven knew I had enough of my own! With each pressing demand, I learned to take a deep breath, and remind myself that it wasn’t my problem. (I know, it is much easier said than done, and sometimes I still feel stress, but, I’m improving!)Â

So, as the days pass, my children are learning that I am not their rescue hero. I am their mother. Yes, I will always be there to cheer them on, love them, teach them and support them in their journey, but, they need to worry about their own rescue efforts. What a calm feeling this gives me. The pressure is off. I find my responsibilities are much more manageable when I remove the panic factor.

How do you manage stress? Please share!

I remember talking to my mother one day when my children were very young. I was tired and I told her how happy I would be when my children were older. “Motherhood will be so much easier!” I said. Wise as she was, she said, “No, it won’t be easier, in fact, it may be harder!” At the time, this didn’t sit well with me, and I wondered what could possibly be harder than late night feedings, colic, and temper tantrums.Â

Now, as my older children are entering their teenage years, I know what she was talking about. The physical demands of young children are indeed exhausting! But, the emotional demands of older children are just as, or more exhausting. I am just entering this stage of life, but, I am learning that I need to change as they change. I can’t be the same mother to them that I was when they were little.

Let me illustrate what I mean. My teenage son is a night owl. Some nights it drives me crazy that he stays up so late! I know he will be tired the next day and he knows he will be tired the next day. Each night I say the same words:  “Honey…it’s getting late. Please go to sleep soon.” He is a wonderful boy and he often gives me a hug and says, “Don’t worry. I’ll go to bed soon.” Apparently his and my definitions of “soon” are very different, because he always ends up staying late. He is entering the season of independence and I am learning to choose my battles. Admittedly, he is doing fantastic in school, making good choices and is willing to help me whenever I need it. I suppose letting him manage his sleep schedule is something that I can live with.

Motherhood is indeed complex. Learning to adapt as my children grow and change is something I am working on!

Do you have any suggestions? Thanks!

Studies show that kids lose knowledge over the summer. Kindergarteners, for instance, generally slide backward about two reading levels from June to August. So, for a student who is already struggling scholastically, summer can be quite a set back.   With more time and fewer commitments, learning can be a great component to a successful summer. Our children will be far ahead of the game if we continue to foster learning during the summer break.

As a young girl, I don’t remember ever uttering the phrase, “I’m bored.” I believe this is due to the fact that I wasn’t bored. My mother was very good at keeping her children productive. Every summer we purchased workbooks that covered the material we would be learning the following school year. My sisters and I knew that each day, we were required to complete a given number of pages in our workbooks, read, and help with chores around the home. Extra-curricular activities to help us discover and develop our talents were also an integral part of our summer schedule. Our summer learning prepared us for the rigors of the following school year, and, because we were prepared, we enjoyed school.Â

Now that I have a houseful of children of my own, I have tried to carry on the tradition of summer learning. It is fun to guide the learning of my children during the summer months and it keeps them busy and happy. Prior to school dismissal, I make a summer schedule that we can use as a guide. For several hours each morning, we learn together. In addition to writing, reading and math, we enjoy going on field trips to local museums, frequenting the library, exercising together and cooking. Our summer learning moments are some of the best memories I have!

How do you foster learning in your home? Please share a comment.

Yesterday, I had a funeral in Austin that I needed to attend. My husband willingly took a personal day from his office job and stepped into the role of Mr. Mom. I usually stay at home and manage the children’s activities during the day, but for this occasion, we very much had our roles reversed.

While I was away all day, my husband, Jordan, was wholly responsible for attending the Mommy And Me swim class for our 18 month old, Kate. Not only did he have to manage swimming with Kate, but our older daughter, Avery (3 ½ years old) was sitting on the bench coloring and watching, so he had to be aware of her as well. After swim, he changed both he and our daughter in the swim changing rooms and took the girls to Katy Mills Mall for their weekly date with coins, fish, and gumballs.

Next came ballet lessons for Avery, including a change of outfit for her and keeping Kate occupied while Avery was in class.Â

And that was all before noon.

After ballet, my husband made lunch, put the kids in bed for nap, cleaned up the house some, was there to greet the girls when they woke up from nap, and cuddling tv time.

When I got home around 4, I was so proud of my whole family. The girls had really enjoyed their time together, and my husband was in full parenting mode.Â

Switching spots really enlightened me and my husband. At the end of the day, I told him I completely understand why he needs a break when he first gets home. Although I was not with the children all day, I also did not have any mental down time and really needed about 30 minutes to myself to regroup. He mimicked my sentiment, saying that he felt the kind of tired I feel at the end of everyday and I was feeling the kind of tired he feels at the end of every day. His exhaustion was physical and emotional, and mine was mental.Â

Trading spots for the day was a wholly successful event. Walking a mile in each other’s shoes allows me to appreciate so much more what my husband does in a day, and the exact same was true from his end as well.

What about you? Have you done a job switch recently? How did it go? Post a comment below.

It's May. It's warm. It's humid. And it just rained – boat loads! Not quite a frog strangler, perhaps, but certainly a gully-washer. All that water is now breeding amd hatching grounds for mosquitoes over the next few weeks; 55 species of the insects live in the Houston area alone.Â

Floodwater Mosquitoes lay their eggs in soil, where they wait for the flooding rains we saw over the weekend. Those eggs will now hatch. The good news is that flood water mosquitoes don't carry the West Nile virus. The bad news is that the other kind of mosquitoes – the culex mosquitoes that lay their eggs in standing water – do carry West Nile Virus. Any containers like garbage cans, old tires, and storm sewers that go stagnant after the rains, are breeding grounds for the culex. The end of may and beginning of June is typically when the first cases of West Nile start popping up.

The good news is that the city of Katy provides mosquito spraying services twice a week beginning in May, but the City needs your help. Mosquito larvae need  still water for five or more days to mature into adult biting mosquitoes. These numbers can be reduced by removing sources of standing water in residential areas.

Suggested ways to help reduce standing water sources – and the mosquitoes that breed in them – include clearing away old tires, buckets, drums  and any water-holding containers. Fill in the low spots in your yard that hold water for long periods of time. Ridding drains, ditches, and culverts of weeds and trash so they flow freely.  The same goes for debris in rain gutters. Cover trash containers and empty plastic wading pools. Replace the water in birdbaths and plant pots with fresh water weekly. Keep ornamental ponds stocked with fish since they eat mosquito larvae. Use mosquito repellant and wear appropriate clothing when outdoors to prevent mosquito bites.  Don't wear concentrated perfumes since insects find there smells appealing.

Should you or your family get bitten anyway, there are several home remedies for soothing the itch:

Calamine lotion works well also. So if none of the home remedies work, you may just need a trip to the drug store. Are there any other home remedies or inexpensive ideas for soothing mosquito bites?

This morning, I loaded my girls up with a sack lunch, a few dollars, and 2 towels. Then we headed to LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch and met some playgroup friends for a little fun in the sun.

This is a favorite May activity for us. It’s finally warm enough to warrant running through the water sprays, but isn’t yet so hot that I need to be in the water as well. My daughters, Avery, 4 years, and Kate, 18 months, loved standing over a water hole until it squirts up on them. Later, they giggled as they walked straight through a row of streaming water.Â

Once the children got hungry, we sat out at the tables provided and ate our sack lunch. Some days, we’ll stop at Mission Burrito or Panera Bread for lunch, but today we were going the low-cost route. Once lunch and a little more splashing were over, it was time for my daughter’s favorite activity at LaCenterra: ice cream! There are so many wonderful options for sweet treats: Jamba Juice, Starbucks, Tollhouse Cookie Company and Cold Stone Creamery. One kid-sized cone per child (blue bubble gum flavored ice cream… yum!) and a Coke for me completed the morning’s fun. There’s nothing like a morning of sun, water, and energy exerting to guarantee great naps for the kids and some down time for me. All the way around, LaCenterra offers us with an amazing day.

LaCenterra does ask that while splashing in their water, children wear shirts, pants, and shoes.

Once the weather gets too hot for Mama to comfortably sit and watch the girls splash at LaCenterra, we’ll make it an evening activity. Some of my favorite pictures and several of the best family memories come from summers spent at LaCenterra.

What about you? Do your children love LaCenterra? Where do you go for splashing fun? Post a comment below!

A great place to visit this summer, if your looking for a Katy/Houston area staycation or just a fun weekend outing is the Houston Museum of Natural Science. They are currently showing several great exhibits; The Science of Wonder: Magic, Faberge: Imperial Jeweler to the Tsars, Archaeopteryx: Icon of Evolution and those are just the special exhibits.

My family set out to see the Magic and Archaeopteryx exhibits. The Magic exhibit is filled with history of some of your favorite magicians from Houdini to Penn and Teller and who inspired them. The best part is that if you time your visit right (see showtimes http://www.hmns.org/exhibits/special_exhibits/magic/live_magic_shows.asp) you can see live magic shows by some of today’s best magicians. We saw Richard Hatch who seemed to be well trained in the traditional classics like the Chinese rings and close-up slide of hand.

We also took advantage of the special going on with the Hubble 3D IMAX and the Burke Baker Planetarium show, Life in the Universe. With this coupon (http://www.hmnsmedia.org/Campaigns/Coupon/Hubble.html ) you can get into Life in the Universe for only $5 with a purchase to the Hubble 3D IMAX. I find anything in the planetarium to be education and relaxing. You have to love those chairs! The Hubble 3D IMAX was wonderful! In the 40 minute show you can learn about the challenges and triumphs that NASA has faced to maintain the telescope that provides us with the best view of the universe. These two shows are a must see for anyone who loves space and the hope of finding life out there.

My favorite part of our day was the Archaeopteryx exhibit. What probably made this our favorite were the museum volunteers. Always talk to the volunteers. They are assigned to that exhibit because they have something to add to it. Another, great feature in this exhibit is that you can take pictures! The majority of special exhibits forbid this so it was nice to be able to capture the memory of this walk through evolutionary history.

The Houston Science Museum is always a family favorite for me. It is a great way to beat the summer heat and have fun while learning something new. And if you think that this is something that your family could enjoy at least twice a year then become members. That’s what my husband and I did. After two visits we found that it paid for itself and you get special offers, special member only invitations and discounts in the gift shop. Are you a fan for a museum in our Houston Museum District? Share your experience in a comment!

Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a vital skill that is easily learned. It has been proven that providing CPR before the Fire Department or EMS arrive is a valuable part of the process of calling 911. It could, in fact, be the deciding factor in saving someone's life.

Having CPR skills have a few benefits such as the reassure that you can help a friend or family member should they need it. Being able to understand how you can help 911operators when you’ve called them for assistance is also encouraging. It's been 25 years since I took a CPR class, it was good to have that CPR skills review and to learn the new guidelines – a few things have changed in the last 25 years.

 The CPR and first aid classes are also open to anyone looking to offer babysitting services. Imagine how comforting it would be to know that the person babysitting your young children took the time to learn Basic Life Support (BLS) and first aid.

West I-10 Fire Department offers CPR and First Aid the third Saturday of every month (except November and December). The Department teaches Heart Saver CPR, Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and First Aid courses intended for general public. Also offered are more comprehensive Basic Life Support (BLS) courses for Healthcare Providers (doctors, nurses, and EMTs).

Courses are taught by a licensed health care professional, like a nurse, or by an American Heart Association instructor. The small classes (generally no more than 25 students) begin at 8am and run till around 1pm – or noon, if CPR is taken without the First Aid class. They cost $15 to $25 and can be paid on the day of class in cash, or by check or money order. (If you’re bringing cash, try to bring exact change.)

 The CPR/First Aid courses for both citizens and Healthcare Professionals are taught at the West I-10 Fire Department located at 22125 Kingsland Blvd. For more information, or to sign up for classes, email [email protected].

My daughter was sick last night, and so we declared today a movie marathon day. With the rain and her recovering stomach, it is the perfect day to cuddle up in front of the tv and enjoy family favorites.

We are avid Disney fans, and have most of the movies they have released from the vault since my oldest daughter was born in 2006. We also have the traditional child faves, such as Sesame Street, Curious George, and the Shrek movies.

This morning, though, we decided to offer my daughter Avery some “new” options: classic favorites from my childhood and my husband’s childhood.

Right now, we are watching the 1969 movie Hello Dolly with Barbara Streisand.  My daughter loves it! There is so much dancing and singing, and even my husband is willingly watching the story as it unfolds. It has inspired me, and so in the next several weeks, we’ve decided to try out some other favorites from our childhoods:

*The Wizard of Oz

*The Sound of Music

*The Never Ending Story

*The Karate Kid

*Mary Poppins

We don’t watch movies often (we have a pretty strict television watching policy), and therefore the cartoons have dominated any time we are in front of the tv. The girls have been perfectly happy watching The Princess and the Frog on repeat. While I do love that movie, I’m not always as excited about the same movie the 10th time its been played. This is an exciting moment for my husband and I… we’re going to get to introduce Avery to parts of cultural history, be entertained and reminded of our youth, and enjoy a special time with the whole family.

Since Avery is still pretty young (almost 4 years old), we know these movies may be hit or miss for now. But my hope is to keep a mental file of these movies and try them throughout the years until she is ready for each of them to make the impact on her that they made on us.

I am certain I’ve forgotten true favorites from growing up, and I don’t want to miss the experience of sharing classics with my children. Is there a movie you loved as a child that you now love to watch with your family? Post a comment below!

I was homeschooled as a child, from 3rd grade to my High School Graduation, and although there were many great lessons I took away from that experience, I promised myself up until recently that I would never home school my own children. I had been very lonely as a homeschooler, and quite isolated. I didn’t want to inflict the same treatment on my own brood. That’s what I thought, anyway!

A couple of months ago, through a series of events and changes, my husband and I pulled my 6th grade son from public school and I began the grand adventure of homeschooling a Junior High kid. Wow! What a job! Now, two months in, I am just finding my feet as a “home school” mom. All my grandeur fantasies of field trips to the ocean and science experiments with chemicals and a microscope and… Well, we haven’t had a field trip yet, not even down to the neighborhood pond! As for an experiment, we just started picking up the science book!

We have however, accomplished something better than fancy science projects; my son and I are closer than we’ve ever been. He is less stressed, excited about his future, and learning self-motivation. He gets to explore further the subjects that he is naturally interested in, and study the Bible and Creation and other Christian teaching that he did not have awareness of in public school. He is self-paced and even though we just began this new adventure, he is already well into 7th grade material in most of his subjects! (Obviously science will need some work!)

We also love the flexibility homeschooling allows us â€" he has much more free time now. And I love that he helps me with household responsibilities, it makes my busy day smoother, and he’s learning wonderful values like teamwork and work ethic!Â

Now, I’m not suggesting by any means that this situation is for every parent/child combo. It takes commitment, hard work, and a lot of self-discipline to truly homeschool your child. You would really want to think it over and do some research before making such a serious decision. What is best for your family overall is obviously the best choice to make. I know I am blessed by our decision, and my son is excited for his future as a homeschooler in Katy, Texas.

What do you think? Do you homeschool your child(ren)? Do you know any other homeschooling parents, and what do they have to say about it?

Looking for something fun to do this summer with your family? Make plans to go to the Houston Zoo. There is always fun and excitement to be found at the Houston Zoo and when you plan your trip in advance you can save money. Visit the Katy Fiesta’s courtesy booth (or any Fiesta) for discount tickets to the Houston Zoo. Just one extra stop can save you money! Also, if you ride the METRO and you plan to purchase your tickets at the gate present your METRO pass and you will save a dollar on each ticket. Every little bit can help!

This month has brought major zoo news along with the Houston summer weather! After a pregnancy lasting almost 23 months Shanti, an Asian elephant delivered a healthy, 348-pound baby boy named Baylor. Now the McNair Asian Elephant Habitat is currently closed to the public until the elephant care team has seen signs that Baylor is settling into his new home. But you can follow the scoop on their website http://www.houstonzoo.org/.

You can always find your staple favorites at the Houston Zoo. From birds to primates, fish and cheetahs and so much more there is always something wild going that the family will love! Beginning Memorial Day weekend the Houston Zoo is opening a Dinosaur exhibit. Summer is always a great time to see what is going on at Houston hot spots. Take a few minutes to look at the websites of the Houston area museums. You can access them all easily at the following site http://www.houstonmuseumdistrict.org/.

Be sure to look at what’s going on a check out look into discount and special offer opportunities. By looking into things in advance you save money and make sure you don’t miss out something fun! Have fun this Summer by making some plans! Have you found any great deals at Katy/Houston area hot spots? Share what you found in a comment below.

Yesterday, our playgroup took a field trip to the Edith Moore Nature Sanctuary. It is literally a nature oasis in the middle of the Memorial area. When we pulled in to the parking lot for Memorial Drive Methodist Church, the sign – and certainly the area – were not obvious. But once we got our bearings and found the entrance to the Nature Sanctuary, we were amazed at what hides just beyond the road on Memorial Drive.

Yesterday, our children participated in a learning time, a craft, and many fun outdoor activities. This was the last day of that particular program, but there are many more opportunities at the Edith Moore Nature Sanctuary, which you can explore by visiting http://outside.in/memorial-houston-tx/edith-l-moore-nature-sanctuary.Â

The focus was on pond life while we were there, and my 3 ½ year old daughter had the opportunity to listen to information about pond life, observe many different types of pond critters, and paint a ceramic turtle and frog.Â

After she finished painting, we were lead to a small pond with a low dock. Each child was given a net and allowed to catch fish with it. It was exciting for my daughter to get up close and personal with a crawfish and several smaller fish.Â

After painting and fishing, my daughter got to pet a box turtle and a walking stick insect. She was somewhat timid, but the nature guides were patient and gentle and once we finished, my daughter beamed with pride over what she had done.

Once the official class was over, we walked around the Nature Sanctuary, following paths through the woods and over bridges. We saw an enormous frog and several turtle heads poking up from the water.

As we were leaving, we crossed a large bridge over a river about 10 feet below. We stopped to look over the bridge and saw an enormous snake swimming aggressively all in the river. From way up on our bridge, we felt very safe, and my daughter and her friends had a wonderful time observing such an exciting creature in its natural habitat.Â

All in all, it was a wonderful trip. I had no idea such an abundance of wildlife and nature was hiding just behind Memorial Drive. We will certainly return!

Do you know of any hidden gems like the Edith Moore Nature Sanctuary? Post a comment below!

— www.averyandkate.blogspot.com

Ah, baseball. What a sport! The smell of a new glove, the whish of the air as the bat is swung, and the screams and whoops of the excited moms as their sons bring home trophies! My twelve-year-old son Jovanni, is playing with the Orioles in the Katy Pony League this spring, and although they just finished up a great season, they placed well enough to participate in the playoffs!

Tonight was their first playoff game, and it was a tight one! Not in the score, but in the play by play. It was too much fun to cheer for our team as they rose from 0-0 up to the fourth inning all the way to 9-1 by the bottom of the sixth! They took the win, and will play again on Tuesday against the undefeated White Sox. The Orioles came in second to the White Sox this season, so that will be the game to watch!Â

It is so exciting to watch the kids; as their determination rises, their success follows. The ball cracks as it connects with the bat, and it is thrilling to see the sphere fly through the air, holding our breath as the outfielder goes for the catch! Will he catch it? The batter doesn’t know yet, he threw that bat down and took off running towards first base as soon as the ball made contact!

My son, being the rookie on the team, doesn’t connect as often as the rest of his team, but it’s not for the lack of trying! So today, as he was going up to bat, with a runner on third, I told him, “Hey Jovie, if you were ever gonna get a hit, now would be that time!” Sure enough, “CRACK!” and off he ran! He got tagged out at first, but the third base runner made it home, and he gave me that run I asked for!

Can’t wait for Tuesday’s game! Is your child in baseball this year? What has your experience been? I would love to hear it.

This weekend, 250 Katy teenagers from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will join together to give a musical performance at Morton Ranch High School. Performances are Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are free and can be ordered at www.katystakeyouth.org. Once a ticket has been reserved online, an electronic ticket will be sent to your email address. The youth will perform a musical cantata (a musical composition for voices and orchestra based on a religious text) called >From Cumorah’s Hill by Steven Kapp Perry and Brad Wilcox. The songs are inspirational in nature and the script is based on real life situations.Â

The most powerful component of the performance is the large number of youth who have participated in the production. They have been rehearsing for three months and have memorized the entire score. As I spoke with the youth, many confessed they didn’t know they could sing prior to this event. Much of the vocal music in the score is composed in four-part harmony- not easy for an inexperienced singer. Others are heavily involved in the music programs at their High Schools and will be featured as soloists.     Many also said they have enjoyed interacting with other teenagers from all over Katy.   At the end of each rehearsal, the youth were given time to talk, eat refreshments and mingle- this admittedly was a motivator for some! The sound produced by this large group is beautiful.Â

If you ever wonder about the youth of tomorrow, I highly suggest attending this concert. Not only is it an impressive performance, but the youth, themselves are impressive! I listened to a rehearsal this past Sunday, and I promise, it is not a show to be missed.

What other events are teenagers around town involved in? Please post a comment.

One of my favorite May activities is helping with Field Day. Field Day is a day set aside for elementary students to get outside, exercise and have fun in the sun!  As I attended Field Day last week at my children’s school, I was amazed at what a successful and entertaining event it was. Kudos to our awesome Katy Schools and many parent volunteers!

Before Field Day commenced, there was an “Opening Ceremony”. The students who had scored the highest in their fitness tests walked around the track holding a torch. As the torch-bearers walked around the track, they waved to an adoring crowd (the other elementary students and parents) and the crowd cheered loudly. When the torch was lit, it was time for the games to begin.

Each child was given a piece of paper that listed thirty different activities that they could do during Field Day. Activity stations filled the gym and the entire playground. Parent volunteers and teenage volunteers were stationed at each booth. When a child completed an activity, the volunteer wrote his/her initials on the child’s field day sheet. Every elementary grade participates in field day, so as you might imagine, it takes hundreds of parent volunteers all over Katy to make Field Day a success.

Activities ranged from running races, to bowling, to water games. Children happily ran from one activity to the next, knowing that the children who completed the most activities would get ribbons. It was all I could do to keep up with my excited children. As soon as they had completed one activity, they were off to the next. Mothers and Fathers joined in some of the races just to prove they still had some vim and vigor.Â

At the conclusion of Field Day, the students gathered in the shade and were each given a Popsicle. Children chattered happily and parents stood close to their children at the conclusion of a memorable school activity.

What are your favorite school activities? Please share.

While reading my Mother’s Day cards with my children and husband, my five year old looked up at me and said in all seriousness, “There is Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day, and all of the rest of the days are Children’s Day’s!” I smiled at him and said, “You are right! Three hundred and sixty-three days of the year are children’s days!”

As I have thought about the years I have been a mother, I smile as I think about the many Children’s Days I have enjoyed. Yes, there have been many difficult and exhausting times, but there have also been countless beautiful, fun and delightful times.

Some days I feel like my children are my greatest fans. For instance, my eleven year old daughter made a card for me on the computer for Mother’s Day that said, “When I think of you, certain pictures come to mind. This Mother’s Day, I decided to show you what pictures are in my mind.” She had found clip-art and had written words by the clip-art such as: Beautiful mom, Amazing Singer, Fabulous Cook…” Her sweet card made my day! To have a child love and adore you is priceless!

Other days, a kind act by one of my children warms my heart. Several days ago, as I was loading the dinner dishes, my teenage son walked into the kitchen. Sensing that I was tired, he said, “Stop mom. I’ll finish the dishes. Go to bed.” I felt so lucky to have such a sweet and sensitive son. It made me feel grateful!

And, on other days, I simply watch my children and feel proud. I walked into the family room recently and listened as my seven year old lectured my five year old about how he could best prepare for first grade. I watched silently and smiled as my little 7 year-old man lovingly taught his younger brother.

So, even though three hundred and sixty-three Children’s Days per year is a lot, being a Mother definitely has its perks. I for one, wouldn’t trade those days for anything!

What have been your favorite Children’s Days? Please share a comment below.

This fresh, citrus-filled dessert has become a popular request item among my friends and family, and is easy and fun to make. Whether for a picnic meal, to add to a delicious buffet of springtime dishes, or just alone with a fragrant cup of coffee, this bar dessert is a real winner! The original recipe is from the Good Housekeeping â€" Great Home Cooking Cookbook.  I’ve just adjusted a couple of details after perfecting the bars to our taste!

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups plus 4 tablespoons all purpose flour ½ cup powdered sugar ¾ cup cold butter 2 large lemons, or 3 small ones 3 large eggs 1 cup granulated sugar ½ teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon saltÂ

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line 13” by 9” pan with aluminum foil, lightly grease foil.Â

In medium bowl, combine 1 ½ cups flour with the powdered sugar. With pastry blender or two knives used scissor-fashion, cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Transfer crumb mixture to prepared pan. Press it firmly evenly around the bottom of pan.Â

Bake until lightly browned, about 17-20 minutes.Â

Meanwhile, from lemons, grate 1 teaspoon peel and squeeze 1/3 cup juice. In large bowl, with mixer at high speed, beat eggs until thick and lemon-colored, about 3 minutes. Reduce speed to low. Add granulated sugar, remaining flour, baking powder, salt and lemon peel and juice. Beat, occasionally scraping bowl with rubber spatula, until blended. Pour over warm crust.Â

Bake until filling is just set and golden around edges, about 17-19 minutes.  Transfer pan to wire rack. Dust powdered sugar over warm filling. Cool completely in pan on wire rack.Â

When cool, remove lemon bars from pan by lifting edges of foil and place on cutting board. Cut lengthwise into 3 strips, then cut each strip crosswise into 12 pieces.Â

After you make these, let me know how they taste! Enjoy the lemon goodness!

As summer approaches, it is important to check our homes and yards to prepare for a safe summer. Pediatricians admit that during the summer months, children are at an increased risk for accidents and injuries. With more leisure time, children are likely to be adventuresome and active…both positive traits when they are closely monitored. Most accidents and injuries can be prevented when potential threats are addressed.

Indoor-

While we as mothers are in spring cleaning mode, we should also review our homes for safety.  Are medicines and cleaning supplies out of our children’s reach? Do outlets have safety covers? Are knives and other sharp objects put away? Are plastic bags stored safely? If toddlers or babies are in the house, are stairs gated and sharp edges on furniture covered?   Â

Outdoor-

Insects and spiders love the weather in Katy and seem to thrive in our yards. Insect repellant and pest control treatment are important preventative measures to manage potential injury. When a child gets a bite, redness, pain, itching and swelling are normal reactions. If, however, the child becomes clammy, has difficulty breathing, or begins to vomit, he should be taken to the emergency room.Â

Children should stay far away from operating lawn mowers. A small rock or twig can be projected a great distance when hit by the lawn mower blade. Children shouldn’t play in parked cars, or by barbeque pits, grills and smokers. Â

As children fill their summer days with rollerblading, and bike riding, we as parents can help them stay safe by insisting on the use of protective wear. In nine out of ten fatal bike accidents, the child was not wearing a bike helmet. It is also important to be vigilant at the playground. Slides are the most dangerous of playground equipment with children burning themselves or falling off.

Due to warm weather year round, pools in Katy are abundant. Nearly every neighborhood has a pool, and many homeowners need simply walk into their backyards to take a nice, refreshing dip in the pool. As fun as pools are, they are also very dangerous. Drowning is the second leading cause of death for children. Even if children know how to swim, it is very important that, near water, parents are 100% vigilant. Most drownings occur in residential pools- in the victims own pool. About three-quarters of children under age 5 who drown were not expected to be at or even near a pool; more than half of them were thought to be safely inside the house.

Children are bound to get hurt at one time or another.  But, when we take preventative measures, we can at least rest assured that we have done our best to keep them safe.

What have I left out? Please share additional safety precautions.

My four year old daughter and I decided to make May special and to count down the days until school is out. I wanted to keep it healthy, low-cost, and low-stress, since the end of the year has enough stress of its own.

We decided to do a healthy(ish) dessert each week that somehow makes us think of summertime. Last week, we made beach scenes. We used graham cracker crumbs, low-fat vanilla pudding, and marshmallows to create the beach.

In each clear cup, we lined the bottom with graham crackers to look like sand. We had to make sure to put enough of the graham cracker crumbs along the bottom, because once the pudding is poured in, they can get hidden from the side of the cup if there aren’t enough.Â

Next, we stirred blue food coloring in to the vanilla pudding to create the water. We used a box mix of French Vanilla pudding and stirred the blue food coloring into the milk before whisking it together. Apparently French Vanilla pudding is mostly yellow, because our ocean turned out more green than not. Next time, we’ll see if we can find a better canvas to prepare our ocean with, but it worked fine to make an over-all impression of ocean water. We poured the pudding in to the clear cups and let it set in the refrigerator.

After the pudding set in the cups, we added marshmallows to the top. These were meant to look like the crest of the wave, but they also added a fun texture to the dessert.

It was a fun, quick way for us to build excitement over the possibilities that summer holds. And, as an added bonus for health-minded Momma, it was a relatively healthy dessert that we could all enjoy!

— www.averyandkate.blogspot.com

Have you ever planned a camp-out and had the weather decide not to co-operate? What's a family to do when their camp-out gets rained out? How about a camp-in instead? Better yet, let your kids invite a friend over and make it a pajama party.

To set up for the camp-in, first clear some space in the living room or family room. Then spread out those sleeping bags (one for each kid) and hang a few strings of outdoor party lights for a little ambience. Next, either attach glow-in-the-dark stars all over the ceiling – in constellation patterns, of course – or set up a star field projector if you have one. Put out a star-gazer book to help the kids identify the constellations. To enhance the feel of a camping trip, set up a CD player with a few forest sound effects disks with crickets, frogs, and the like.

Kids get to put out lanterns and flashlights next to their sleeping bags – for when it gets dark – and wear their craziest pajamas. After all this is a pajama party. Play some camping games like guessing the identity of a hidden object or a game of "Button, Button, Who's Got the Button?" (Replace the button with a forest object like an acorn or a stone.) Have the kids tell each other some amazing camp fire stories. If the kids are old enough to handle it, make it a Ghost Story contest, with prizes for: scariest story, best story told by one person, best story told by two or three people, or funniest ghost story.

Can't cook those hot dogs over a fire because of the rain? No problem. Cook them over a hot microwave. The same goes for the s’mores. Keep that ice chest handy and full of cold drinks and fruit (or other healthy snacks).

So the only thing left is to figure out where to get those ghost stories for the kids to tell each other. There are a few books available in any book store. There are also several websites that have ghost stories posted:

Another website that contains stories, games, songs and other camping activities is Ultimate Camp Resource at:Â http://www.ultimatecampresource.com/

By the way this camp-in makes for a great sleepover birthday party as well. The best part is there are no mosquitoes! What other rainy day ideas are out there? What about birthday party ideas that don't cost tons of money and can be easily organized?

Yesterday, my extended family and I were spending the day together. We were sitting outside, watching my 4 year old daughter, Avery, playing in the sandbox. My sister, Amanda, and my grandmother were talking about a new dress my sister was hoping to sew. She went to the car to get the pattern she had purchased, only to discover she had left it at her house in Spring. All of the adults discussed how frustrating it is to realize you’ve left something by the front door instead of loading it up. I had no idea my daughter was listening until she interrupted the conversation.

“Mommy,” she said, “I’m all done with the sand. I’m going to go inside and wash my hands and make Amanda a pattern.”

It was touching how much she cared about fixing the situation for Amanda, and although none of us knew how she was planning on making a dress pattern, we all went along with it.

After her hands were washed, she waited while my father got her paper. And then, moments later, she emerged with a piece of paper. It had circles scribbled on it in alternating colors: purple, yellow, purple, yellow…

She took the paper to Amanda and proudly handed it over to her. “Amanda, I made you a pattern!” She’s been learning about making A-B-A-B patterns in school, and was so proud to ‘fix’ Amanda’s problem by sharing her knowledge.

Amanda assured my daughter that this was exactly what she needed and we all enjoyed a good laugh over it.Â

Having an almost-four year old is so much fun, and every once in a while we happen into these moments that couldn’t be scripted any cuter or more wonderful than they play out naturally.

What about you? Do your children keep you laughing? Post a comment below!

— www.averyandkate.blogspot.com

It's been almost three weeks since our triplets were born. They are small, but they are doing well. The doctors are happy with their progress and that gives my husband and me a lot of hope for the future. However, it is obviously a stressful situation for our family. If you know of someone with loved ones, especially children, in the hospital, here are a few things you could try to help lighten their load.

First, offer to drive them to the hospital. Parking fees are tremendous. There are times that I am paying $15.00 just to park. When you drive your friend to the hospital, you are making life easier. I know that the hospital my triplets are in offers a monthly contract which is a much better deal. Perhaps you could do the legwork for your friend so that it is one less errand for her to do while at the hospital. That will free up some time for her to spend with her sick family member.

Today I took my girls to Katy Mills Mall. Sometimes we head there to shop, and I love those trips. But today, we just went to be together.

Before we left, we gathered all of our change from around the house and stuck it in one of my daughter’s dress-up purses. I was curious if it would be enough to keep us busy for the next hour, and I was pleasantly surprised.

We arrived, with no agenda except to walk the mall and spend our coins. First, we stopped at one of those coin collectors with the funnel. My girls had so much fun watching the coins pin around and around. I was careful to pick out the pennies for this activity. Total cost for this stop: approximately 50 cents.

Next, we wandered the mall, looking for one of the gumball dispensers. We found a huge clump of them and my girls circled the glass domes over and over trying to choose which flavor they wanted. Total cost for this stop: 50 cents.

From there, the girls got very excited when they saw the sign for Bass Pro Shop. For us, it means one major thing: fish! We stopped in and stared at the fish for a while, my youngest pointing out each new fish that swam by. Total cost for this stop: nothing!

We were starting to run low on time, so we had to skip so many of our favorites: the play area by the movie theaters, the photo booths, pointing out animals at Rainforest Café, and the carousel. We only had time for one more stop, so my girls chose the mini-carousel just past Bass Pro Shop. It was so much fun that we rode it twice. Total cost for this stop: $2.00.

On the way out, we stopped at one of the drink machines just outside the entrance and I treated us to a  Lemonade and a Coke. Total cost for this stop: $3.25.

For an hour’s worth of pure, relaxed, undirected fun, we paid only $6.25. And since it was all from change laying around our house, it was free for our bank account… even better!

This outing was so much fun that we plan to make it a weekly trip. What about you? Do you and your family have a favorite place to go for inexpensive fun? Post a comment below!

— www.averyandkate.blogspot.com

Yesterday, I was invited to a “Mommy Makeover” event put on by the Kindergarteners at Woodcreek Elementary.   I have many wonderful Mother’s Day memories, but, this one tops the list!  At 1:30 p.m., I walked to my son’s classroom. At the door, I was greeted by his teacher and immediately, my son, Braden, walked to the door and offered me a beautiful paper bouqet of flowers.

A huge smile spread across Braden’s face as he escorted me to a seat and began to pamper me. I had brought a bag of toiletries- some makeup, nail polish, lotion and hair accessories. “Hmm…” Braden said. “What should we do first?” He then decided to re-do my eye make-up. The other mothers sitting in the classroom were getting similar royal treatment. Every few minutes, the mothers admired each other and offered comments about how beautiful we all looked.Â

Braden took off my sandals, lathered my feet with lotion and carefully slipped my shoes back on. He brushed my hair and added a few colorful clips for effect. He then painted my nails and finished with some fresh pink lipstick. After my makeover was complete, he held up a mirror so I could see how "gorgeous" he had made me. He was so proud and I felt so loved!

The Kindergarteners served their mothers lemonade and cookies and we sat back and enjoyed a song about mothers. I always feel silly when I do it, but, I got choked up!  As the sweet children sang precious words of love to their mothers, I wiped a tear from my eye and tried to compose myself.

For a time, the world stood still, and life was just my son and I, together, enjoying some lemonade and cookies. We chatted and laughed happily, and my heart swelled with pride and love. How I hope I savor these moments! A Happy Mother’s Day it was!

What are some of your most cherished Mother’s Day memories? Please share!

I’m living my dream.

When I was young and couldn't sleep at night, I’d lose myself in fantasy worlds. I didn't dream of being a princess or a ballerina. I didn't want to be a rock star. I wanted to be a mommy. I’d lay awake at night, dreaming of the day I could hold my very own little ones in my arms.

Several times a week, I catch myself with a silly grin (often with a tear as well), just soaking in these moments that are so fleeting and so very precious. The way that my oldest daughter, Avery, says "Mama", the way that the baby, Kate, stares at her daddy when he walks in a room, the days full of learning and playing and cuddling… it's all a dream come true. I’ll take the dishes and laundry and constant clutter. With it comes the most blessed moments I’ve lived through yet.

I wondered when my first daughter, Avery was born how people could tell me it only got better from there. She was so small and so precious and a part of me never wanted those days to end, so I couldn't imagine it being even better than that. Now, I understand. As a 3 ½ year old, the child is so full of life and spunk and I absolutely adore her at this age. Watching her figure out her world and explore communication is like seeing it all again myself. Just like I felt when she was one, and two, and three, I don't ever want to forget the way she looks as a three and a half year old girl, running around our backyard or splashing in the tub or hunched over her sister, sharing toys, singing, or giving kisses.

Avery is so special and so full of life that before we knew Kate, our 18 month old (“the baby”), we wondered how another baby could possibly find a place to belong in our family. Kate has answered that call with overwhelming sweetness, gentleness, and delight. She has awoken a place in my heart that I never knew was there. Her tender hugs, the way she clings to me like a monkey on its mama, and her coy but flirty personality are completely different but wholly complementary to her sister.Â

This Mother’s Day, I’m pausing to say thank you to God  for this dream come true. These days are just too precious, and although they are fleeting, I do not miss them when they are gone. I know tomorrow holds more moments to appreciate and more dreams come true.

It's time to start thinking about summer activities for our kids. I know, I know, the economy is still a little shaky and gas prices on the rise – again! So how can families find activities at a reasonable cost, without draining the gas tank, or the wallet? Katy Parks and Recreation Department might just have the answer you’re looking for. The Department offers a number of week long summer camps that won't cost an arm-and-a-leg and are close to home.

The camps are designed for children ranging in age from three to twelve years of age with groups divided up based on learning levels and skill sets for each age group. The week-long sessions are broken down into pre-school, elementary and middle school age groups (3-5 years, 4-6 years, 4-8 years, or 8-13 years). Prices range from $89-260. The cost covers supplies used during the camp and length of the day. The camps are all 5 days long, with most running for 2-4 hours and others going as long as 6 hours a day.

What the kids will learn varies from one week to the next and one age group to the next. Camp themes range from building Lego® structures, reading, and princess manners to cheering, computer classes, and Mad Science® labs. Camps are being held at the VFW Hall at 6202 George Bush Drive in Katy. Registration forms can be downloaded from the City Parks and Recreation Department website.

For camp information contact the City Parks & Recreation office by calling (281)391-4840 or by e-mail at [email protected].Â

To registration, visit the City Parks and Recreation website at: http://cityofkaty.com/departments/parks/summer-camps-2/

"Mom, Bryan won’t stay out of my rooooom! Make him leave!” “Mom, Braden pushed meeeee! Ow! Stop it Braden! You’re hurting me!” “Stop it Bryan! Those are myyyyyy games. You can’t play with them!”

Did my perfect day really have to start like this? I jumped out of bed and lumbered up the stairs. My older two children were now in the center of the action pulling the younger two boys away from each other. It reminded me of a boxing ring. Our own little boxing ring. How dreadful!

“OK guys. What’s going on?” I asked in a sleepy voice.

At once, all four children blurted our their individual version of the story. I sat, nodded and listened as if what they were saying was registering. Then, I responded as I always do.

“We are a family. We do not hurt each other. We do not say unkind things to each other. It is a privilege to play with each other. If we can’t be kind, we can’t be together. I want each of you to spend the next half-an-hour in your rooms. Then, we will start this day over. I will decide what we can do today based on your behavior. Now, scoot! Go to your rooms right now!"

With grumbling and mumbling, each child wandered back into his/her room. The next half an hour was quiet and peaceful. I made my bed, straightened the kitchen and made some pancakes. I still maintained high hopes for a glorious day. As the smell of pancakes found it's way to the bedrooms, I heard children’s voices.

“Can we come out yet?” “We’ll be nice.” “I’m starving. Can we eat yet?” “Alright children. You may come to the kitchen to eat now.” I responded.

As the children filed into the kitchen, I silently hoped the day would be a good one. We ate in silence for the most part. Pancakes were everyone’s favorite breakfast, so they ate and ate until they were satisfied. But, tummies full and freedom in their hands, they cleared the dishes and apparently began to focus on what the next argument could be.

Within moments, Melissa hollered, “Mom, Bryan spilled my new lotion all over the bathroom floor! Bryan that was the best lotion ever! Why did you do that?” She lamented.

I paused in my kitchen clean-up to again go upstairs to mitigate. For Melissa’s birthday, I had given her a make-up kit with lip gloss, light eye shadow, finger-nail polish and lotion. Sure enough, her new, fragrant lotion was all over the bathroom floor.

“Bryan, why did you spill Melissa’s lotion?" I questioned. “I didn’t know it would spill when I squeezed it.” He responded innocently. “You need to clean up the lotion and buy Melissa a new bottle.” I stated matter-of-factly. “M-o-m! Why do I need to buy a new one?” He complained.

As I began to practice my deep breathing techniques to manage my stress, I attempted to keep my cool. When I lay down on the floor, I think the children noticed that I wasn't tolerating the bickering very well. Compunction soon spread across each of their faces and they promised to behave better.

The day did turn out to be a good one. No, it was not perfect. We had a few contentious moments, but, we enjoyed each other and when contention reared it's ugly face, I tried my best to beat it back.

I hope that one day my many ramblings to my children will all sink in and that contention will be completely eliminated. Well, let me be more realistic. I hope that we can at least go for one day without it!

There is no doubt that it is around the family and the home that all the greatest virtues, the most dominating virtues of human society, are created, strengthened and maintained. Winston Churchill

With our daughter arriving this July and summer now at our doorsteps I decided to really make the most of spring-cleaning this year. The last month my husband and I have been cleaning house and organizing all of our stuff. Yes, of course I wanted to jump into the cute baby decorations but I quickly saw that first you have to get organized before you can any fun with the cute stuff.

Honestly though, once we got started it wasn’t that horrible. I even tackled my overflowing file cabinet. As someone with an at home business I keep files on everything from our bills to my projects. Now that my file cabinet is organized and has some order to it I’m finding that I can now save time on many daily tasks. Paying bills, sorting mail and other undesirable tasks are handled much quicker and easier now. I also am able to be more productive with my writing career. Before it would take me a while to find notes or research on a topic. Now I can put my hands right on what I need and when I need it.

My husband and I were also amazed at how much space we actually do have. After removing several piles of clothes to goodwill our closets actually began to have some purpose to the way things were hanging in them! I also now know where I plan to put various things for our daughter. I know longer have to stress about where to fold and put away her little towels and bath hoodies. The linen closet now has plenty of room.

So, I do admit that the actual cleaning and organizing process is not fun and it never will be. However, now that I’ve done it I feel a great sense of accomplishment. I feel not as overwhelmed and I now can look forward to arranging the cute baby stuff now! Whether you are organizing for a baby or just because it needs to get done you will be amazed at the results when you take a step back and realize, “Wow that was worth it!”

Now that May is here embrace your spring cleaning before the activities of Summer pull you away. Trust me, you will be glad that you did clean and you will save time in the long run if you can organize your life through your belongings. Do you have any spring-cleaning success stories or nightmares? Please share in comments below!

Mother’s Day and Father’s Day have always seemed a bit daunting to my two siblings and me. We love our parents so much and cherish the opportunity to show them this, but we have a bit of trouble coming up with a new, creative, meaningful way to express ourselves each year. We don’t just want to give a gift to Mom on Mother’s Day, we want it to be a perfect gift that clearly represents how wonderful she is to us.

After several years of searching the creative vaults of our minds, my sister, brother, and I had a stroke of genius. My mother and father want nothing more than for us to be together, and we want nothing more than to serve them and show them how much they mean to us. Add in the whole family’s love for cooking, and we had a plan.

For the last 6 years, we have prepared a five or six course meal, complete with a theme and 5 star quality recipes and ingredients, and given it as a gift to my parents as a joint Mother’s and Father’s Day gift. Their three children are all married, and so the six of us gather in their kitchen to create a meal fit for a queen and king. My dad loves watching us all work together to make new recipes, and my mom delights in having us all together for an entire weekend. (My brother lives in Los Angeles, so finding a weekend for him and his wife to fly in town is also a part of the big event.)

We wanted to be careful, when this idea became a reality, to make this an event that would stand out from all others throughout the year. So, we begin by picking a theme and recipes that are more challenging than we would usually tackle.  One year, our family took a vacation to California together, and we used this as our theme for the meal. We served Hollywood Hills avosalsa and homemade tortilla chips, Sunset Boulevard martinis, Grauman’s Chinese Theater salad, Wine Country Chicken Piccata, and Mickey Mouse mousse. We decorated the table in the nice linens and served it all on china. Another year, we had a Hawaiian theme and decorated much differently. The food was still first class, but there were grass skirts, leis, and hibiscus galore.

We present the theme to my mom on Mother’s Day and the menu to my dad on Father’s Day. Usually, the actual celebration doesn’t take place until the end of the summer, when my brother is able to make it into town. No one seems to care that Mother’s Day lasts from May until August.

Last year, my parents both suggested that we do an Iron Chef take-off for this year’s meal. The men will square off against the women. My parents will provide the mandatory ingredient (we are going easy and doing one ingredient per course) and then the men and women will come up with menus and present them. For Mother’s Day, we’re giving my mom a portfolio of each of us (photoshopped) in chef’s outfits with a culinary bio for each team member. My mom and dad will present us with our ingredient list and we will return with the menus prepared by Father’s Day. I cannot wait to add a whole different element to our usual custom.

What about you? What creative traditions do you have for celebrating Mother’s Day? Post a comment below!

My husband and I decided when my daughter was very young that we wanted to use Mother’s Day and Father’s Day as an opportunity to teach her about thoughtful gifts. We wanted to teach her to give gifts that are special because she thought of the person she was giving the gift to. We were hopeful that we could teach her that cost isn’t as important as thought.

To that end, we agreed that the most meaningful gifts for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day would be gifts that she picked out herself. One year, we took her to the Dollar Store and let her pick out anything she thought her Mommy and Daddy would like. She chose sidewalk chalk and a water gun for her Mommy that year and candy and sidewalk chalk for her Daddy. The next year, we narrowed the decisions down for her and let her chose between a few gifts we knew would be special.

This year, my daughter is almost 4 and capable of more abstract thought. When my husband asked her what she thought Mommy would like to get for Mother’s Day, she instantly responded, “Mommy would like a party. With a piñata. And a rainbow cake. And pin the tail on the donkey.” So, this year for Mother’s Day, my gift will be a Rainbow Party, put on by one very loving 4 year old girl.  For a four year old, this is an incredibly thoughtful gift: Mommy is a girl, just like her, and she would like a party in her honor, so wouldn't Mommy?  It makes me really happy to imagine the thought process she must’ve worked through in order to decide that what Mommy wants is a Rainbow Party.

Sure, every mom loves flowers and earrings and sweet cards. But knowing that my daughter thought of something by herself and watching her excitement grow as she plans the party with her Daddy… that is so much more special to me during this time of my life than any other gift I could receive.Â

How about you? Do you have any special ways of celebrating Mother’s Day? Post a comment below!

Since all of the roads were covered with water, it was impossible to discern how deep the water was in any given spot. I hesitated and wondered if we should pull to the side of the road to wait out the storm. After some thought, I felt I would be safe to proceed. Suddenly,the van stalled. I tried to start the car again, and again, but alas, it would not start. The engine had flooded and we were in serious danger. I peered out of the window and saw that the van was surrounded by water. It looked like the van was floating in a giant river. The normally gentle stream adjacent to the road, had risen and had flooded the ground on which we were driving. We were caught in a flash flood.

Within moments, I decided my children and I needed to get out of the car before it was swept away. As I opened the van door, water began to rush inside. My three children were not yet strong swimmers, thus, I held onto them with all my strength so they wouldn’t be swept away. Exerting all of the energy I could muster, I waded through waist-deep water until we reached higher ground. I collapsed onto the grass, exhausted, and drenched to the bone.

I have often thought back to this experience and have thought about how grateful I am that our family was able to pass through this storm safely, and without harm. Life is much like that stormy day. Sometimes life surprises us with floods, storms, and difficulties of all kinds. How grateful I am for a family to cling to during life's troubled times.

In time of test, family is best. -Burmese Proverb

A friend whom I have known since college said to me one day, “My husband and I were remarking that you look the same as you did in college. Even your hair is the same!” At first I thought her remark was a compliment implying that I hadn’t aged, but then, I wondered. How many people who haven’t changed their hairstyle in fifteen years look all that good?

As I ran over the conversation in my head the next day, and thought about the probable implications of her words, I was determined to find a new look. Upon finding a Salon of some repute, I scheduled an appointment for that very day. When I arrived at the Salon, I told the hair-stylist I needed a completely new look. After an hour of sitting in the salon chair, I peered at my reflection in the mirror. The hair-stylist had added some layers and had completely straightened my hair. I liked it! I didn’t know whether I had the time or energy to spend the same amount of time straightening my own hair, but, for today, I felt hot!

When my two youngest boys arrived home from school, they immediately looked quizzically at me. “You look different mom!” they quipped simultaneously.

In a completely flat tone of voice, Bryan responded, “You look like you are going to McDonalds.” I determined right then and there that it was worth whatever time it took to straighten my hair! I definitely didn't want to look like I was going to McDonalds every day! Oh, the honesty of children!

As a stay-at-home mom, I like to be available to my children. But there comes a point at which I need a mental break in order to keep going. This has become especially true now that my oldest daughter has given up naptimes. She still reads or plays quietly in her room, but silence in our house is a thing of the past.

I’ve found that podcasting can really save my sanity. During “rest time”, I don’t want to hear every little bump that my daughter is making. However, I don’t feel comfortable tuning her out by cranking up the tunes to drown her out completely. My solution: Podcasting!Â

There are endless options available for free via podcasts. I prefer to download sermons from The Waters Church (my home church here in Katy) or from a church whose pastor I know from high school, The Village Church in Dallas.  I find that these sermons put me in a good frame of mind and help me drown out the little person noises that abound upstairs (but since it is just a person talking, it doesn’t get so loud that I wouldn’t be able to hear her if she really needed me). I wasn’t sure how it would work at first: would I be able to stay focused and not get bored listening to a sermon? Would I get anything done around the house? I’ve found that cleaning is so much better when podcasting. Housework is relatively mindless work, so I am still able to attend to the speaker while checking things off of my to-do list. It took me a few tries before I found pastors that I enjoy listening to, but once I found the handful that keep my attention, I’m able to go back every week and get their latest sermon via podcast.

There are so many podcasts to choose from: almost every church has their sermons online, many famous authors have podcasts, and my husband’s favorite is How Things Work. He says he podcasts them on the way to work and learns something new while sitting in traffic.

I use podcasting during naptime but I also use it on those days when I just don’t think I can listen to Old MacDonald Had A Farm anymore on car rides. The girls still get to listen to their music, and I blissfully sneak away to a much calmer, rejuvenating place.Â

How about you? Â Do you podcast? Â What is your favorite podcast? Â Post a comment below!

It's out! Hot off the presses, the summer reading list for 2010 is officially posted on the Katy ISD website. Students can get a jump start on their summer reading by checking out the reading lists for the grade level they will enter in the fall.

So why should they read during the summer? Summer is supposed to be for relaxing, taking vacations, and having fun,. That's true, but part of the adventures of summer can include the adventures found in good book. We’re not talking about making them read because they "have to" learn something for school. The books on these lists are chosen to foster enjoyment of reading for pleasure and to cultivate their curiosity for subjects they may already be interested in – outside of the school setting.

Besides, reading is a cool activity for those exceedingly hot afternoons and rainy days. Southeast Texas gets so many rainy days and hot afternoons during the summer that finding time for reading is the easy part. One great to get students reading is to peruse the books with them. That way parents and children get to escape to other times and places together and have an abundance of  shared adventures to discuss for months or even years to come.

Buying the books isn't vital. Many of them are available at the public library and can be located by browsing their catalog online. The only thing required to begin another voyage or the next quest is a library card. Should you choose to purchase books, however, they can always be passed on to other children in the family, to friends, or to neighbors when you are finished with them. Better yet, donate them to the school or public library so that they will be available for future readers.

The reading lists are available at: http://www.katyisd.org/library/Pages/Summer_Reading_EL.aspx  for elementary school.

http://www.katyisd.org/library/Pages/Summer_Reading_JH.aspx  for middle school.

The Katy Public Library hours and other information is listed on their website: http://www.hcpl.lib.tx.us/location/katy-branch-library

I put Jessica Seinfeld’s cookbook, Deceptively Delicious, on my wish list the year it came out. I received it as a Christmas gift and immediately began cooking from it. Her premise is that we can puree vegetables and include them in recipes to boost the nutrition of a meal. The idea is that as children eat the muffins you serve them or the chicken nuggets you’ve made for dinner, they are also getting a serving of vegetables, which they may not otherwise have eaten.

When I first began using the book, I was already pureeing foods for my first-born. She was in the baby food stage, and so I’d chop and steam and puree huge amounts of vegetables at once and have them on hand in the freezer. Then, it was fairly easy to have pureed veggies on hand for the Deceptively Delicious recipes.

As time went on, my only child became more demanding, and then became the first of two. I went from being concerned about feeding my family something healthy to just being concerned with finding something to feed my family in the first place. I admittedly let my convictions on healthful eating slack.Â

Recently, though, I took a good look at what my children had eaten in a week’s time. The nutrition was more acceptable than I anticipated it would be, with one major weakness: veggies. Even when my girls were presented with vegetables at lunch or dinner, they’d ignore them for the most part.   It would be fair to say that in a day, my children probably eat one full serving of vegetables each.Â

So, I dusted off the Deceptively Delicious cookbook again, looked at our menu for the week, and made some slight adjustments. Instead of my usual way of making quesadillas, I inserted Seinfeld’s recipe. I did the same for three meals, and depending on how this week goes, I plan to use the breakfast recipes next week, too.

I don’t have the time I used to have to devote a full day to steaming and pureeing vegetables, so instead, I begin baking or steaming the vegetable I need at the beginning of naptime. Once it is cooked, I stick it in the blender and quickly churn it up. For this part of my life, small tasks (like pureeing one head of cauliflower) seem to fit in to my day much more easily.

I am excited about thinking of the health I am providing my children, and so far, they have enjoyed the recipes I’ve presented them with. I’m not going to stop putting broccoli in it’s purest form in front of them, but until they decide they are dying for another helping of it… I know there is Deceptively Delicious to help me out.

What about you? Do you sneak vegetables in to your family’s diet? Share your helpful hints below!

I was raised in a family with three sisters, a composed mother and a soft-spoken father. Memories of my childhood consist of piano lessons, ballet lessons, creating musical productions with my sisters, and all things beautiful. I remember collecting flowers, pressing them and making stationary with them. I cherished family meal time and basked in the warmth of my fellow family members. Ok, maybe it wasn’t all perfect, but that’s how I like to remember it.

As you can imagine, it was quite a shock when I married a man. It was a further shock when three of my four children were boys. Though I had imagined my home would be much like the home I grew up in, it has actually been, oh, I daresay, a little livelier!

With the exuberance and energy of boys continually around me, I have become much more relaxed than I use to be.  I use to want an immaculate house, for instance. Now I see that little boys and immaculate houses are contradictions in terms! I have discovered, however, that I have quite an affinity for household items such as carpet cleaner, stain remover, super glue, and drywall filler. We have spent many hours watching insects, playing with cars, digging in the dirt, and amassing every kind of ball we can find. Boys are active. They have boundless energy, thus, we have also taken our share of trips to the emergency room.

But the thing I love most about boys is that they love their mothers. After a long, tiring day, it is not uncommon for one of my sons to say, “Thank you, Mom for all you do. You are the best mom ever!  You are so pretty!” So, even though a life filled with boys can sometimes be loud, crazy, and at times obnoxious, I wouldn’t trade the men in my life for anything! How have the boys in your life made life beautiful? Post a comment below.

Yesterday I went to the grocery store for my weekly shopping trip. I piled the cart with fruits, vegetables, cereal, milk, bread, and the necessary ingredients for a week’s worth of meals.   As I unloaded my grocery cart and watched the cost add up, I was shocked! My total came to $188.64. Reluctantly, I scanned my credit card and signed my name on the credit-card machine. I couldn’t believe how much I was spending on groceries! I knew the cost would go up as my children grew, but boy, the cost never ceased to amaze me!

As the cashier thanked me and handed me my receipt, I took 30 seconds to scan the receipt before leaving the store. I caught the mistake immediately. Rather than ringing me up for one honey dew melon, the cashier had accidentally rung up 12 honey dew melons. My mouth dropped as I realized that the cost of twelve honey dew melons had cost me, the buyer, $35.26. I immediately pointed out the mistake to the cashier, and apologetically, he refunded me the cost of the eleven honey dew melons I hadn’t purchased.   I left the store, grateful I had taken 30 seconds to scan my receipt! It had saved me over thirty dollars!

Over the past few months, there have been numerous times that I have “saved” myself money by simply checking my sales receipt. One time, I stocked up on a certain kind of cereal that was on sale. Cereal is a staple in our home, and I love finding a bargain! Anyway, upon checking out, I was charged the regular price on all ten boxes of cereal. The caught mistake saved me $15! Another time, I was charged the wrong price per pound on grapes.   That, I discovered, saved me $5! A couple weeks ago, I found I had been charged for several items someone else had left on the belt, saving me $23!

My examples of money saved in simply checking my sales receipt are endless. I have never been good at clipping coupons, or driving to various stores to find the cheapest food. But, I am now committed to always checking my receipt. Just think! With all of that saved money, maybe I can go on a vacation! You can too! Just try it! How do you save money at the grocery store? Post a comment below.

Some time ago, my husband and I met a family who had a significant impact on our lives. This remarkable family taught me how one can live with what I like to call “An Abundance Mentality”. They inspired me to live life to its fullest in spite of circumstance.   Â

I met the Smith family the first day we visited our new church. We had recently moved, and had not yet met anyone. Upon entering, Shannon Smith walked up to me and introduced herself. Shannon promptly asked if she could help me in any way. Not knowing her, I was at first reluctant to ask, but I desperately needed some help with my younger children while we unloaded the moving truck. I decided to go ahead and ask if she could help me with my children for a couple of hours the following day. She happily agreed and told me not to worry. She was glad to help. I was warmed by her kindness, and felt good knowing I had found a friend.  Â

Over the next few years, I watched as this amazing family positively impacted others. The Smiths were quite poor. Their home was very small and it was clear that they didn’t have a lot of money. What surprised everyone who met them, however, was that you would never know they lacked for anything. They were always the first to volunteer to take a meal to someone who was sick, or open their home for a play group, or offer service to those in need.Â

I often reflect upon the Smith’s example. In spite of their meager means, they richly blessed everyone they came into contact with. I realized, through their example that it doesn’t matter how much money one makes, or how full one’s time, living abundantly really comes down to a state of mind…and using our time and resources to help others.   Have you known people who have “An Abundance Mentality”? Please share a comment.

My daughter, Avery, has been a part of a playgroup since she was 3 months old. Which I realize means it was really more of my playgroup than hers. But, having grown up with the other children in her playgroup, three years later she is fabulous friends with each of the children.

We take turns planning events for our group of nearly-four-year-olds. Ordinarily, we choose a park and provide the snack during the week we hostess. If the weather is bad, we’ll either open up our homes or meet at a bounce warehouse or play area at a restaurant.

This week, our friend Miss Stephanie and her son Tyler played hostess and host. We met at Mary Jo Peckham park, which in itself makes for a wonderful playdate. However, Stephanie also provided the children with a scavenger hunt. She gave each child a paper with words and pictures listing items to find: squirrels, trees, fish, flowers, leaves… As each child found something on the list, they’d get a sticker to put in a box next to the corresponding word and picture. After they found three of each item, they got a treasure… bubbles!

We had such a great time and it really allowed the kids to appreciate nature. The kids all huddled together to stare down at an ant hill, raced on the path to the pier to check for fish in the lake, and yelled with delight when they discovered three ducks at once! The children loved being a part of a structured activity together and finished it up with bubbles, playing together on the park’s play structures, and snack.

It was so much fun and such an easy idea that I plan to use it much more often. Perhaps on walks around our neighborhood as we wait for Daddy to get home, or when I know we’ll be stuck in a doctor’s office for a long wait, or even on car rides… the possibilities are endless!

How about you? Do you have any great ideas to make a day at the park even more enriching? Post a comment below!

A popular community event flew into Katy’s West Houston Airport the last weekend of April. The CAP Wings Over Houston Air Show was staged

 through the voluntary endeavors of the Commemorative Air Force in conjunction with West Houston Airport and Gulf Coast Wing. The organizations displayed US modern military, WWII, and  Korean War era aircraft, and even a Soviet fighter plane.

History buffs and airplane fans alike explored the WWII museum in one of the hangers, examined the planes up close, and then watched as many of the aircraft flew in formation overhead. A few of the spectators who bought tickets were offered the chance of a lifetime to ride in one of these historic airplanes.

The Commemorative Air Force (CAF) has its West Houston Squadron based at the West Houston Airport on Groschke Road. The group operates its museum out of one of the airport’s hangers, which they open for special events like this weekend's air show. They give private tours by appointment as well. The CAF also refurbishes period aircraft and takes part in flyovers for Veteran's memorial services and sporting events in and around Houston. The organization is self-supporting and privately finances all of its activities.

Do you know of any other airplane related activities that are family friendly? What inexpensive airport pastimes can you suggest?

We’ve all been there. It’s the weekend or summer day and you are looking for something fun for the whole family to do without costing the bank. Sometimes saving money can be so easy and informative. We are fortunate to live in a world run by the Internet. Businesses can reach out to their target markets and for free.Â

Your family can use the success of social media to save money and not miss out on great events. By following local event venues you can easily stay up to date on events and programs but you can in many cases gain access to great coupons and offers. I have seen several cases where a company has posted a special offer to their Twitter followers where you can get two admission tickets for the price of one. That can be helpful when planning family outings.

 Businesses are doing the same thing with their Facebook accounts. Following a business that you like on Facebook is another way to let your voice be heard. Many companies seek out information from their Facebook friends. We do it at the Katy Magazine (follow us @ http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Katy-TX/KATY-MAGAZINE-Katy-Texas/ .) There are many times that we are looking for a particular type of person to interview and we will put out a request.

With summer quickly approaching many favorite event venues and local activity centers are going to be preparing for social media summer campaigns. This is the time for you to put in a little time at your computer that could result in great savings.

Sit down with your family and think of some of your favorite places to go around town. Then visit sites such as http://www.houstonmuseumdistrict.org/ and pick out some places that you haven’t been but would like to try. Take a few moments and search for the places on your list on Twitter and Facebook. Commit to follow them.

That’s all you have to do. Then while you follow your family and friends online each day don’t forget to pay attention to any great offers or events that pop up on your newsfeeds. Take advantage of the savings and offers thanks to social media and enjoy your time together as a family! If you’ve had a great savings experience by following a venue through their social media please share. Also, feel free to post links to businesses Twitter and Facebook pages if you find them to be helpful.

My oldest daughter and I spent the morning at the doctor’s office. She woke up in the night with croup and a high fever, and needed cuddling and to be rocked most of the night.

Although she is four, and we have been through many illnesses, it is still such a painful, disappointing experience every time she gets sick. For one, it is so hard to watch your baby feeling so ill. It hurts to not be able to do anything for her. One of the worst feelings in the world.

Add to that sleep deprivation from being up with the sick child all night. And the need to clear your schedule, make an appointment, drop some cash on a doctor visit and a prescription… it is just a miserable experience. Without fail, I have to cancel some plans that both she and I were looking forward to â€" this time it was a friend’s birthday party, church, and lunch with her cousin afterwards. Not to mention school if she hasn’t kicked the fever by morning.

But in all of this, there is so much to be thankful for. Sick children sit still so much longer. They let you hold them and stroke their hair and kiss them. They appreciate you and want to be with you. It is so fulfilling to sit with my daughter and know that I am giving her everything I can just by being there for her. A sick child brings out the lioness in me and I feel so empowered when all is said and done. The prescriptions are filled, the smoothie is made, and my baby and I are laying on the couch watching Yo Gabba Gabba on repeat. We can get through this thing. And I can make it better for her after all.

Every time one of my children gets sick, I am reminded of how blessed I am to have such healthy kids. By and large, our life goes off without a hitch and my children stay healthy. Their temporary and mild illnesses serve as a reminder of just how blessed I really am. Three days from now, this illness will have passed and life will be back in full swing. But for now, I am going to sit up with my little girl when she calls me in the middle of the night and cherish the time we get to spend together.

What about you? How do you deal with sick children? Post a comment below!

Whenever I need to sign up to bring a dessert to an event, I know just what to make. My mom has been making caramel brownies my whole life, and when I started making them for my own functions and get togethers, people loved them. They were even re-named “Ridiculous Brownies” because of how ridiculously rich and good they were. We use the same basic recipe as the one found online when you do a search for “caramel brownie recipe”, but I like to think of it as a family recipe.

The recipe calls for: 14 oz caramels 1 cup evaporated milk, divided 1 package German Chocolate Cake mix ¾ cup butter 2 cups chocolate chips

To begin, melt the caramels (unwrapped, of course) with ½ cup evaporated milk. You can do this double-boiler style or you can microwave them in very small time increments, stirring after each, until melted.

Then, grease a 9 by 13 pan and heat the oven to 350 degrees.

Next, make the batter. Stir together the cake mix, melted butter, and the rest of the evaporated milk. Take half of the batter and spread it evenly across the bottom of the greased pan. Bake this for 8 minutes.

When the brownies have baked for 8 minutes, remove them from the oven and sprinkle evenly the chocolate chips. Layer on the melted caramel mixture.  On top of this, use a teaspoon and place small chunks of batter across the top. Don’t try to spread the mixture out over the top of the caramel! Continue placing small rounded spoonfuls across the top of the caramel until you have used up all of the batter.Â

Bake for 20 minutes or so. Let cool, cut, and serve.

This is the type of brownie that needs to be served on a plate with a fork. It is ooey and gooey and completely rich and yummy! Enjoy and let me know what you thought! Post a comment below.

Simple things seem to make life wonderful. That’s why I decided to try this new, really cool toothpaste. I was honestly excited to brush my teeth. Yes, I had spent a little extra on it, but, goodness, I was a mother of four. It was okay to splurge on myself. I deserved it. The first morning I used it was like magic. My breath was as fresh as it had ever been. I liked spoiling myself!

I wasn’t the only one who was excited about my new toothpaste. He must have known how much it meant to me, because he waited until I was on the phone to make his move. My toddler snuck into my bathroom, located the new toothpaste and commenced the experiment. He smeared it all over the tub, counters, sinks and floors.

When I discovered my new toothpaste was already used up, I set out to get my next luxury. Lipstick! I was in need of a new color. I had worn the old color for a long time and was ready for a change. The search began for the perfect new lipstick. Finally, I found the perfect color. It was called Burgundy Wine. I bought it and stashed it in my purse.Â

Again, the undercover rascal lay in wait. This time, he waited until I was in the shower. How did he know it was in my purse? While drying my hair, little Braden walked in my bathroom. I immediately noticed his hands and panicked. Was it blood on his hands? I threw the blow dryer down and rushed to him. Upon closer examination, I discovered it was lipstick. My brand new, beautiful, perfect lipstick covered him. A smile crept over his face.Â

“Where is it?” I demanded. “Where did you put it?”

He led me to the powder room and pointed. The white pedestal sink was now a red pedestal sink. And, there, lying on the toilet was my new lipstick…now only a stub. There was nothing left. Ah…the joys of motherhood!

Do you have any zany motherhood stories to share? Please do!

Fabulous Schools– Most people admit that an excellent school district is what brought them to Katy. The Katy ISD school district is indeed impressive.  Most of the elementary, junior high, and high schools within Katy ISD are rated exemplary. There is tremendous parent involvement within the district, and students within Katy ISD become accustomed to a rigorous academic environment.

Extra-Curricular Choices-There is no shortage of choices when it comes to extra-curricular activities in Katy. Sports offered in Katy include Roller Hockey, Basketball, Bowling, Dodge ball, Fencing, Football, Lacrosse, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Tennis, Track, Volleyball, and Baseball. There are also many excellent dance studios, martial arts studios and art, theater and music studios.   Â

Friendly People-Having moved ten times in the past sixteen years, I must say that Katy ranks at the top of my friendly people cities. In Katy, Texas, people smile, extend helping hands and make you feel as if you are finally home.

Family-Oriented-Katy is a bedroom community, and due to the strong school system, families move here in droves. If you refer to the Katy Texas events page on the Katy Magazine website, you will find many family-oriented activities year round.

Strong Economy– Job growth and stability in the housing market are two factors that put Houston, Texas at the top of many national economic forecast lists. In Katy, the purchase of a home is still a good investment because the economy remains stable.Â

Good City Planning-In spite of the amazing growth in population, the Katy City Government is very adept at looking forward and projecting infrastructure needs.   Road expansion, housing development, and school construction remain ahead of the growth. Â

Affordable Housing-Compared to any other major metropolitan area, Houston Texas boasts very affordable home prices. I was amazed at the many choices in builders, location, and style of homes available in Katy.

The list goes on and on. How glad I am to live in such a beautiful, safe, affordable, and friendly city. No wonder everyone is so happy in Katy! What do you like about Katy? Post a comment below.

Just North of I-10, lies an unpretentious cemetery. The modest plot of land

 was originally owned by Adam Stockdick who donated it  in 1915 to the Colored Baptist church — now called Antioch Baptist Church. It contains the graves of some of Katy's early settlers, several farm workers, war veterans, and workers for the MKT Railroad.

Katy Community Cemetery (KCC) is located on Stockdick Road, between F.M. 1463 and Danover Street. It is fenced in on three sides and neatly maintained by the church. Antioch Baptist church members have done a great deal of work on determining where many of the grave sites are and identifying several of the people known to be buried there. A list of names has been compiled, but the names on the graves don't always match the list. Some of the recorded names and some of the unmarked graves have not been located so far. Moreover, some of the names on the graves are not on the list.

Katy Heritage Society has taken on the task of filling out the stacks of paper necessary to have this historically significant site recognized by the State of Texas. According to Carol Eckels Adams, Executive Director for the Katy Heritage Society, both the Heritage Society and the Antioch Baptist Church need funds to help maintain this non-profit cemetery as well as for continuing the landmark recognition process.

Katy has another cemetery — Magnolia Cemetery — on Franz Road near Bartlett Street. It also has historically significant graves, including Katy founding fathers and a few Civil War veterans.

"Magnolia Cemetery has been around since the very early 1900's and has graves from our early settlers, including some that have roads named for them," says Eckels Adams. She goes on to note that Magnolia Cemetery is a for-profit facility, as opposed to Katy Community Cemetery which is a non-profit cemetery owned by a church. At this time Magnolia is not in the process of being recognized as an historic landmark. Both Katy Community and Magnolia continue to serve as operating cemeteries and have space available for new graves.

For the Katy Community Cemetery Fund, contributions may be sent to PO Box 359, Katy, TX 77492. To help with cemetery care and landscaping , paperwork, or any other volunteer work, contact the Katy Heritage Society at Katy Heritage Park, 5990 George Bush Drive, P.O. Box 359, Katy, TX 77492-0359, or call 281-391-2550.

Humidity can be a good thing, in a small amount. As April is progressing here in Katy, that small amount is growing! As a gardener and nature lover, I love it! The lettuce is already forming small bunches, and I’m salivating at the thought of homegrown salad! My parsley, basil, chives and dill are turning into miniature herb fields, and the okra, peppers and tomatoes are all growing nicely. The flowers here…don’t get me started! My gladiolas are about to burst into bloom at any moment, the deep pink impatiens have become weeds, and the geraniums in red, white and pink are brilliant in the front yard.

So, humidity and I get along just fine. Without the rain, moisture and mist, my garden and flower babies wouldn’t look the same. Trust me, I’ve lived without it! The roadsides in town are amazing, lit up with rose and violet colored azaleas, which grow like roses here. Further out of town, into the countryside (my favorite place!), the wildflowers grow in abundance, like a flag spread over the meadows.

The critters are also coming out, saying hello to a new year, a new season of warmth and growth. Some are wanted, some are not…like the young cottonmouth we found in our backyard last week! The birds sound like life to me, with their tweeting, whistles and sometimes, songs. They are little pests, as in stealing the first fruits from my strawberry plants! I love them and the perky spirit they bring, though, just the same.

All the babies signify that the winter is through, new birth is here! Driving home just a couple of days ago, the kids and I saw four little calves romping in the field together, leaping and frolicking while their mothers grazed calmly nearby! We’ve seen more foals this spring in Texas, in front yards and on neighboring ranches, than we have in a lifetime elsewhere. Baby ducks, baby chicks â€" they’re everywhere. Watching babies never gets old!

New life â€" that’s what spring means to me, and I appreciate every minute of the season. Is spring a favorite time of year for you? Do you have any spring babies to talk about? We’d love to hear your spring story!

Many people often wonder what are the best ways to get in better physical condition. I am one of those people and with some research I have found 3 methods of training that seem to work fairly well and they are –

3. High Intensity Interval Training (H.I.I.T)- This training system offers great balance between scientific theory and intense physical effort.The theory for this paricular system is intense short busrt of effort and muscular tension whether it be with cardiovascular training or weight training followed by longer but effective rest periods. The other method is a complete contradiction of the previous idea, but just as effective.This method involves long, strenuous and intense muscular movements followed by shorter resting periods. While the second method is intended more for athletes or weight lifters with intermediate to advanced levels of fitness, both are effective and with proper technique and form mastering both routines will come easily.

2. Circuit Training- My personal favorite training system and a good one at that. This is a training system consists of short periods of exercise on multiple movements in secession with minimal to no rest for multiple sets. This is best for athletes looking to improve muscular endurance as well as individuals looking to push themselves past any exercise plateau.

1. Body Specific Target Training (B.S.T.T)- Though I mentioned that circuit training is my personal favorite training system, it is not the best in my opinion. Body Specific Target Training may be the slowest training system of the three mentioned, but in terms of the results gained it may be the most effective.The idea is to train one specific muscle group for multiple repititions and multiple sets for an extended period of time with extended rests. The theory behind this idea is that the continuous extention and contraction of the muscle will cause extrenuous stress upon the muscle and with a stable and consistant resting period( between sets and after exercise) the muscles will begin to repair themselves and adapt to the movements i.e. stronger muscles, strength and endurance.

Though I based this writing on athletic and strength training, the systems can be used in other facets of exercise such as cardio, endurance, flexibility ect. Leave a comment letting me know if you have a favorite method of exercise. Leave me a comment if you would like a blog on sample routines or more specific definitions of any training routines.

A Katy mother-to-be starts saving before the arrival of babyÂ

I use to be one of those people that despised having extra cards in my wallet. However, expecting a baby quickly changes you! Now that I’m 6 months pregnant I’m quickly becoming a collector of coupons and reward cards as a way to save money.

At the local Katy Babies R Us my rewards card helps me earn points towards savings and alerts me via email on great coupon specials. Thanks to paying attention to such coupons my husband and I were able to save 20% on our crib. This was a significant savings and with a baby on the way every little bit helps.

Also, with my Babies R Us rewards card I can save money when buying diapers and formula. I’ve recently discovered how expensive those much needed and everyday items can be so learning ways to save money in this area is a huge comfort.

I’m also finding other ways to save money in our everyday lives. Even if it isn’t directly related to our baby savings is savings. I have a membership card with Barnes and Noble. As an avid reader this is a simple way for me to find some savings. We also now have a Randalls card, Best Buy, and Petsmart rewards card. And I have found that my original hesitation to such reward cards is unwarranted. I don’t like to weigh down my wallet but all of our reward cards are linked to our phone number so I can give that to the teller and I don’t have to have the card.

When I first thought about covering this trending topic I posted the question, “Do you like to use reward cards?” on Facebook. I quickly got responses from many friends on their opinions. I did find it interesting on how my single friends without families of their own were against reward cards for the very reason that I once was, the hassle and extra bulk to my wallet. Then my friends that are married with children or a baby on the way were all for the reward cards. Maybe this is just another life change that comes with a growing family.

Whatever your belief is on reward cards it is a easy and wonderful way to save money on not just baby products but also normal items that your family typically purchases. Also, it does open you up to great coupon opportunities that I’ve found are easy to follow to great saving opportunities. Have you come across a great baby saving find such as a coupon source or a store program? If so please share your experience below in a comment.

My four year old daughter loves dancing. She is in a dance class, watches So You Think You Can Dance every season, and generally believes all dancers are princesses.Â

So, the Cinco Ranch High School Stars Dance Team’s Annual Spring Show is perfect for us. Each year, I let my little dancing princess choose an extra special outfit and we gear up for the big night of dancing. She gets so excited to see all of the performances.Â

There are a variety of dances put on by each grade level within the Cougar Stars, each squad of girls, and some really special performances by the mothers, fathers, and Cougar Men of CRHS. There are solos, small group dances, and whole team dances. My daughter loves the music, the lights, and the dancing so much that she is mesmerized the entire length of the show. She truly believes we are in the presence of celebrities, and we are! These Cougar Stars have spent the year practicing and growing as dancers, and we get to come and support them and be entertained by them. Â

Being a former dance team member in my high school days at Mayde Creek High School, I also thoroughly enjoy watching the Stars perform. It is a mix of admiration for how far dance has come and nostalgia for some of the best days of my life. It is sheer enjoyment for both my daughter and myself.

This year the title is THE SHOW and the Cougar Stars will be performing on both Friday and Saturday nights at the Cinco Ranch High School Performing Arts Center at 7:00 pm both nights. Tickets are $8 at the door or $7 purchased beforehand from a Cougar Star and they are accepting KISD Gold Cards for Senior Citizens, making their ticket price $5 each.

When I first became a mom, I devoured every parenting book I could get my hands on. I wanted to be the best mom I could be. I wanted to parent correctly! The more I read, the more amazed I was at the abundance of parenting theories. From sleep to discipline to diet, there was no shortage of advice on how to raise happy, well-adjusted children. So, I began my long journey through motherhood, daily testing the theories I had read about. At times I felt really good about my parenting…the methods were working! But, it seemed that just as I mastered a particular parenting technique, my child changed and I found I needed to adjust my style. There is one parenting technique, however, that serves as a powerful tool at every stage of child rearing. That tool is my time.

On Sunday, my seven-year old son seemed tired. But, instead of laying down for a rest, he proceeded to go to each of his siblings, and tease them, until the sibling hollered for reprieve. As I realized the teasing wasn’t subsiding, I stopped what I was doing and approached my son. I knelt down by him and said, “Would you like to spend some time with me? Go pick out some of your favorite books, and we can snuggle on the couch and read. Or, if you would like, we can play a game. You choose!” My son excitedly set up a game of bean bag toss, and let me know he was ready for a game. After about a half-an-hour of one-on-one play time, his disposition changed, and he was ready to interact appropriately with his siblings. Just a small amount of my time had completely changed his mood!

The powerful parenting tool of time also applies to older children. One day, my daughter came home from school and it was clear she was not in a good mood. As I tried to talk to her, she didn’t seem to want to open up. She seemed frustrated and I could tell something was bothering her. Instead of pressing the issue, I asked her if she wanted to make a batch of cookies with me. A lover of baking, she said she would like to make some cookies with me. As we began to gather the ingredients, we talked about the summer vacation that we had planned. We brainstormed together about what we would need to bring. After some time, her frustrated demeanor melted and she was soon smiling and laughing with me. Toward the end of our baking, she opened up to me and told me what was bothering her.

Though it is not always possible to drop what we are doing to give our undivided attention to a child, where possible, the results are astounding. Children do indeed desire our time above all else. I have found that one-on-one time is the best parenting bullet in existence!

Have you found your time to be a powerful parenting tool? How do you connect with your children? What one-on-one activities have proven beneficial to your relationships with your children? Please share!

We have enjoyed the fair weather this last month or so and have spent most of our time outside. My two daughters have gotten their fill of indoor activities… in my opinion, winter (even in Katy) goes on two months longer than it is welcome.Â

Over the past month, with the weather being as nice as it is, almost every play date and get together has involved some sort of outdoor activity. Some of my favorites include…

*Walking around the large lakes at Cinco Ranch Blvd and Spring Green. This is a family favorite, and we will sometimes pack a lunch and eat out on the grass.

*Playing outside at La Centera. And what trip to La Centera is complete without a treat from one of the several shops around? The girls love to get ice cream or cookies, I love the Starbucks and Jamba Juice.

*Visiting the parks in each of our friends’ neighborhoods.Â

*Geocaching in and around Katy (for more, go to www.geocaching.com). Geocaching is like a global scavenger hunt, with locations given in GPS. We use my iPhone and my 4 year old has a blast helping us discover the hidden capsules.

*Local Katy parks are a real hit. Mary Jo Peckham, the ‘train park’ nearby it, George Bush park â€" we love making the park rounds!

*Refilling our sand and water table. And for an extra twist, we make one side warm, soapy water and the other cold, clean water.

*Sidewalk chalking and sidewalk painting. To make the sidewalk paint, we mix 2 tablespoons of water with 2 tablespoons of corn starch and then add food coloring. It’s so much fun and washes right off (except for our blue food coloring… oops).

*Biking together. The girls enjoy the ride and my husband and I love getting exercise and family time all at once. We’ve gotten really brave and biked to a casual dinner or to the store before, but even a trip around our neighborhood is nice.

Earth Day would be great time to take your children to a local Katy park. You can search for the one nearest you right here on the Katy Magazine site http://www.katymagazine.com/parks.htm. Fly a kite, take a walk, enjoy the beautiful Katy weather before things get too hot!

If you want to tie in a little more education into your Earth Day celebration the short drive into Houston can provide you with many options. Today you can celebrate Earth Day at a most appropriate venue, the Houston Weather Museum. From 10am-4pm the museum will celebrate the Earth and the museum’s birthday. Admission is free. For more information visit http://www.wxresearch.com/earth/index.html.

The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is also always a great place to go to be close to nature. It also is free! Enjoy walking the trails and coming face to face with wildlife. The Arboretum also has many great programs that you can learn about on their site at http://www.houstonarboretum.org/

If you want to celebrate Earth Day this year in the comforts of air conditioning Disney is debuting their documentary, Oceans in theatres today. This is a great way to show your children some of nature’s masterpieces! You can read more about this at http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0765128/.

Even with these options if you want to stay home there is always a way to incorporate a love for nature in what you do. Channel surf the National Geographic, Discovery and Animal Planet stations. There is bound to be something on that will peak your family’s interest.

Earth Day is a great time to have family discussion about what you love most about the Earth and how you can help to make a difference. Discuss the importance of conserving electricity by turning off the lights in rooms when you leave them. Come up with a family recycling plan or decide to help through volunteering. If your family is doing something fun and unique for Earth Day please share it in a comment!

What is it about these guys?

I skipped the Barney craze and luckily missed out completely on the Teletubbies. I did some babysitting and so I knew of them, but I never had a deep understanding of these children’s television icons.

I am getting paid back tenfold via Yo Gabba Gabba.Â

In today’s media driven society, there are so many more choices out there for television for children. And, with as much as we limit tv time in our house, we’ve been through a few crazes: Sesame Street, The Wiggles, The Doodlebops… and most recently, Yo Gabba Gabba.

Yo Gabba Gabba has taken my family by storm. When my husband and I saw our first episode, we were confused and amazed. Why didn’t these people take the time to make costumes with mouths that move? Why does Muno have a black zipper down his back when the rest of his costume is red?  Why don't they care if the words rhyme?  And, the most important, overarching question: Who in the world comes up with this stuff?

For all of our confusion, our children (Avery, 3 ½ and Kate, 18 months) were in absolute television bliss. Kate, who will not sit still for anything, seems to go into some sort of trance when the show comes on.  From start to remixed ending, she moves less during the show than during any other time of the day. Avery loves the show, as well. It’s somehow edgy, in a kid-ish way. She sings basic morals to her sister and to herself throughout the day: “Keep trying, keep trying, don’t give up… never give up,” or a recent favorite: “Don’t bite your friends! Don’t, don’t, don’t bite your friends!”Â

I’ve used Yo Gabba Gabba in parenting more often than I prefer to admit. At lunch time, I sing “Try it… you’ll like it.”  When it is important to remember to share or when it's bedtime, I have Yo Gabba Gabba songs at the ready.

I can appreciate Yo Gabba Gabba for what it is. And I can love it for how still and happy it keeps my kids.Â

Are you a Yo Gabba Gabba fan? What kid’s shows does your family enjoy? Post a comment!

I got a phone call from a friend of mine the other day. “Angela! You will never believe how much fun we just had!” She and her 4 year old son were running an errand at Katy Mills Mall when they discovered a sidewalk full of caterpillars. She happened to have a container in the car, so the two of them spent the next 30 minutes collecting caterpillars to take home and nurture together. It was a moment of unplanned fun, and it reminded both my friend and I that so much of our time has become scheduled.

I stay home with my two girls, but we have activities planned most days. With pre-school, The Little Gym, ballet and playgroup, we are very rarely home and almost always have a schedule and a plan wherever we go.

My girlfriend’s caterpillar experience was a good reminder that some of our best moments come in the unplanned space between activities.Â

If I am honest, I’ll admit my girls are probably tired from all of our activities. Sure, I want them to be enriched. And yes, if we stay home for too long without a plan, we all start to go crazy. But I also think we can find a better balance than we have now.

For the next several weeks, my plan is to carve out one day a week that is just for us to be together. No agenda, no schedule. (And no housework for Mommy. I plan to treat it like I would a playdate or other activity in that I don’t expect to accomplish anything around the house for that amount of time.)

I am excited to see how this goes. If it isn’t raining, I may take the girls to a park or for a nature walk. If it is raining, maybe we’ll go waste some time and coins at Katy Mills Mall. Or maybe we’ll stay home and bake or have a tea party.

What about you? Do you care to join me on this little experimental ‘day of rest’? Post a comment below!

My first daughter, Avery, is what most would call strong-willed. She is emotional and excitable, which make her fun to be around… most of the time. Anyone who has been in our lives at all will vouch for the fact that when Avery is in her element, feeling wholly loved and supported, she is a gem. However, when something goes wrong or when she is asked to obey and she doesn’t want to… well, everyone knows about it.Â

Avery is defiant and has been known to clear a playground, classroom, or grocery store with her ear piercing screams. She doesn’t just reserve those screams for special occasions, either: she’ll unleash a scream when she’s not ready to go home yet, or when she’s asked to eat her dinner, or any number of other times.  I am strong willed, as is my husband, so we just assumed that all of our children will be this way. Avery is a lot of work and doesn’t respond to discipline or encouragement like other children do. Wrestling her into her car seat after she’s been patiently asked to obey repeatedly is somewhat common for us.

When our second daughter, Kate, was born, we quickly realized that two strong-willed parents sometimes produce an easy-going, even-tempered baby. Kate is 18 months old right now, and by this time in Avery’s life, I’d cried, read every book I could find, and still found primarily failures in correcting her. Kate, on the other hand, has only been disciplined a handful of times. Each time, her little heart breaks in front of us and she immediately responds with a hug and obedience. It is such a nice change.

However, it was recently brought to my attention that Kate may be getting away with far more than I let Avery do. Avery is defiant and will look me in the eyes and tell me “NO” when she doesn’t plan to obey. Kate, on the other hand, grins at me when I tell her to do something, and then toddles over and does whatever she wants. She is such a different personality and I have to remind myself that it is not black and white: Avery does not equal disobedience and Kate does not equal obedience.Â

Kate is actually getting away with a good deal when I step back and look at this objectively: she climbs on the furniture and then jumps down right when she catches my eye (whereas Avery would’ve yelled at me that she’d do what she wanted and would’ve kept jumping). Kate throws her food to the dogs when I’m not looking and then giggles about it when I catch her. She is still doing exactly what she wants, but because I’m so used to the confrontational aspect of discipline, Kate is getting away with a good bit of misbehavior.

I’m becoming more and more aware of how much I have to learn about my second born.  What about you? Are your children different, and how does it affect your parenting? Post a comment below!

I was shopping in one of my local grocery store and saw so many fresh fruit out ready to be bought. As I walked by several of them they smelled so sweet that tempted me to grab one and put it close to my nose and enjoyed that wonderful smell of fresh fruit. I saw mango's, oranges, strawberries, grapes, apples and cantaloupes. Upon selecting the fruit I would put it close to my nose and see if it had that sweet smell. I would also check the tenderness and color of the fruit. I always wonder if the fruit would be sweeter if I would go to a farmers market instead of the grocery store.

I know that Katy has several days with a farmers market that comes out and sells fresh fruit. Is this fruit sweeter? Is it fresher than the ones we get at our grocer? Should we make our own fresh fruit garden in our backyard? Is it difficult to take care of a fruit tree? I think I took longer in the fruit aisle than expected because I was enjoying seeing and smelling the fruit in the store. There were so many to choose from that I filled my cart with different choices of fruit for my children to enjoy.

No one likes spending time doing activities they find disagreeable, even if the activities are good for them.  So, what is the best way to ensure you will exercise throughout your life? The answer is finding a form of exercise that you love. Once you find a kind of exercise that is fun, you will be hooked and exercise will become a pleasure.

My favorite form of exercise is dancing. I enjoyed ballet and ballroom dance when I was younger and find that I work hardest when the form of exercise is somewhat creative. I was thrilled when we moved to Katy and found that several of the local fitness centers offered cardio dance classes. If you pay for a membership to Lifetime Fitness or the YMCA, for example, the fitness classes are included in the membership cost. I have loved attending Latin Dance, Hip-hop and Zumba classes. They are great cardio workouts and they make me feel like a teenager again.

Several years ago, my husband discovered a passion for racquetball. He has found a group of guys in Katy that play regularly and keep him motivated and engaged in the sport. Recently, he has participated in tournaments which further motivate him to push himself to become better.  My husband and I have also found that we enjoy biking. We purchased a bike rack for our car, and we enjoy exploring Katy on our bicycles as a family.

Children are naturally active and when they discover fun forms of exercise, they will automatically seek out these activities. Every day after school, my children enjoy a variety of fun, free sports.  They enjoy shooting baskets in our basketball hoop, jumping on the trampoline, biking, playing Frisbee, and rollerblading. Sometimes the best exercise for children is letting them loose in your own backyard!

Exercise shouldn’t be drudgery.  In fact, it can and should be something we love…something that gives us an emotional and physical boost each day. So what forms of exercise do you love? How have you stayed motivated to continue exercising? Please post a comment below.

Some of my greatest learning moments have occurred as I have talked with other women about motherhood and life in general. Often, these conversations happen spontaneously. Sometimes, they occur at times most unexpected. Years ago in a neighborhood park, I learned a lesson on motherhood.

Children really seem to be in their element when they are given the freedom to run and play to their heart's content. On one particular day, the weather was perfect and we decided to pack a lunch to eat at the neighborhood park that was close to our home. The land on which the park was situated was really quite beautiful with rolling hills and large, majestic trees. A walking trail surrounded the entire park and the flowers and shrubs were abundant in their variety.

My son, Brandon was five years old and my daughter, Melissa was two- definitely fun ages for picnic and park play! I inhaled the smell of lilac and freshly cut grass as we wound our way to the park on the trail. As we moved closer to the park, I found a flat spot of grass that looked like the perfect spot for a picnic. I opened our picnic basket, found the red and white checkered blanket and spread it on the grass. It seemed that most days, p&j sandwiches and fruit was the lunch of choice. Today was no different, but I had also packed chocolate chip cookies and juice boxes. We sat down on the blanket and I began to distribute the food.

After enjoying the last of our picnic lunch, the children were off to play on the play set. I lay back on the blanket and inhaled the clean, fresh air. Relaxing on the blanket, I watched a young mother push her little girl in a stroller along the path. Within a few moments, the mother came over to the blanket while her daughter raced to the play structure.

Leena and I sat and talked of many things that peaceful summer afternoon, but, one topic stands out in particular. As we discussed the many demands of motherhood, I learned an important philosophy.

“Motherhood”, Leena stated, “Is not so much what is easy for me, but rather, what is best for my child. I figure, I will have to temporarily put aside quite a few of my wants while I am doing my best to raise my children."

Her wisdom and candor have stayed with me and I have used this notion in my decision making as a mother.

Maureen Hawkins: Before you were conceived I wanted you Before you were born I loved you Before you were here an hour I would die for you This is the miracle of life.

Please share any insights you may have related to balancing the damands of motherhood. Post a comment below.

My daughter loves birthdays. She loves her own (of course), her friends (the parties!), and especially birthdays of family members. Our extended

 family’s tradition is to go out to eat for any adult birthday, as a large family unit. We used to try to head to places like Fogo de Chao or Perry’s Steakhouse, but as the children get older (and as there are more of them!), anywhere we go needs to be kid-friendly.

Enter our new family favorite: The Downtown Aquarium. The food is still fancy enough to warrant a birthday celebration, and the children have so much to do that the event is at least as special for them as it is for the birthday celebrant.Â

Before heading in to eat, we enjoy the shark tunnel train ride. As we’re seated and making our dinner selections, the children can walk around the huge aquarium and pick out their favorites (this past time is was the green eels). It’s not hard to keep the children entertained as we wait for our food with the cast amount of fish, sea horses, sharks, and eels to scope out.

The food is always amazing, and my youngest daughter especially loves the shrimp and chicken plate for children.Â

After dinner, we let the children choose two more activities: the carousel, the ferris wheel, winning an item at the midway games, playing in the bubbles around the midway, dancing in the water sprays or a ride on the horse drawn carriages waiting outside the restaurant. Every time we go, my daughters choose something different. There really is so much to choose from!

The Downtown Aquarium is enough of a drive away (and bears enough of a price tag) that we save it for family birthdays, but when we go, everyone has a wonderful time. It is certainly our family favorite for finer dining and child friendly fun!

How about you? Do you have a favorite spot for family celebrations? Post a comment below!

This weekend, we had the opportunity to double date and go on a progressive dinner. The premise was that we would go out and enjoy appetizer, main course, and dessert at three different Katy restaurants, thereby making an entire evening out of eating dinner.

We have never done a progressive dinner before, and neither had our friends. But, being good sports, they agreed to give it a go.

We began at Perry’s Steakhouse in the bar section. We enjoyed drinks and an appetizer at a leisurely pace. Perry’s is a favorite of ours, but the price tag keeps us from being able to do dinner there most of the time. Having drinks and appetizers was a fun way to get the experience and the fabulous food without such a high bill.

Once we had enjoyed the last of our drinks, we moved on to Three Olives for our main course. My husband and I split the Pollo Verde and loved it. We had never been to Three Olives before and loved the atmosphere, the décor, and the food.Â

Our last stop was Hasta La Pasta for dessert. Chocolate cake and cappuccinos rounded out our evening beautifully. We sipped our drinks and enjoyed listening to the live music as well.

At the end of the evening, we discussed as a group what we thought of progressive dinners. We all admitted that we had some concerns going in to the evening. We wondered if it would be awkward to only order one course at each stop, or if it would seem annoying to have to get up and move before our next course each time. However, after experiencing the night, we decided that it is a perfect, albeit slightly expensive, night out on the town.Â

Since we chose to sit at the bar for appetizers, it did not feel awkward at all to order only drinks and starters. And by the time we were ordering our last course, it was late enough that it seemed very natural to order coffee and dessert only.Â

The transitions from location to location did not seem annoying or needless at all. In fact, knowing that we had no time restraints and that the entire evening was dedicated to perusing Katy restaurants made for a laid back, refreshing vibe throughout the evening. Switching restaurants helped us not feel like we’d only been sitting and waiting on food for four hours. It added to the anticipation and enjoyment of our food as well.

It was a perfect night out to unwind, relax, and spend time with some precious friends.  I highly recommend trying the concept out. Bring along some friends for a double date and get the added bonus of fellowship and conversation!

Have you ever done a progressive dinner? Post a comment below! If not, give it a try the next time you are able and let me know what you thought!

April 14, 2010 – Katy, Texas – This week, while waiting in the airport to board my plane, I noticed a mother approach the ticket counter with a young toddler and an infant in her arms. She struggled to carry her belongings, and her two children through the throngs of people gathered to board. Floods of memories came to my mind as I remembered myself in the very same situation. I remembered the looks and smiles of those around me. I remembered I yearned for an additional arm. As I watched the mother carefully move to the boarding ramp, I remembered the numerous kind women who offered assistance when I needed it most.

On this trip, I was traveling by myself, but, I could recall many other trips with my babies and toddlers that had been quite stressful. On one particular occasion, a sweet middle-aged woman shared a row with me. As I juggled cheerios, bottles, and Sippy cups, she was an angel. She helped me the entire flight and turned a very difficult time into a manageable, happy time. When I had asked her if I could do something to repay her kindness, she simply smiled, winked and said, “It is the Mother Code. You will give back to other mothers.  You’ll see!” And, that was that.

It was finally my time to board, and as luck would have it, I entered the plane, located my seat, and discovered I would be sitting next to this mother and her children. She smiled wearily at me and said, “I’m sorry you have to sit by us today. You probably won’t have a very quiet flight!”Â

I smiled at her and responded, “It is a treat for me to sit next to you! I would be happy to hold your baby so you can play with your other little one.”Â

A look of relief spread across her face and she said, “Oh, that is so nice of you, could you? I have been very worried about this flight.

I was thrilled! Within moments, I was holding a precious little baby.  I held the baby for most of the flight as Theresa entertained her 18 month old daughter. As the plane began to descend for landing, Theresa said, “You made my day! What can I do to repay you?” I simply smiled and said, “It is the Mother Code. It’s just what we do!”

Have you known any angel mothers? Post a comment below.

This is the first year that we are members of the Houston Zoo. On a recent trip, we calculated how many times we visit the zoo, and becoming a member suddenly made financial sense.

My girls are ages 18 months and 3 ½ years, so it is especially nice not to worry about how much each zoo trip costs. Some trips, the girls are ready to stay all day, but on other occasions, 2 or 3 hours is all they can make it before we have to head home. I never worry about if the trip will be an all day event or a quick stop now that we’re members, since we don’t pay per visit.

One of the perks of being a member of the Houston Zoo is Zoobilee, an annual event for members only. Two nights a year (this past Thursday and Friday were the chosen nights this year), the zoo closes to the public at 4:30 and from 5:00 until 8:00 pm, members roam the zoo, filling their “passports” with stamps of chosen animals, watching the animals come out to play at night, and even getting to touch a snake and an enormous rabbit. There were dancers dressed as animals (a crocodile, zebra, lioness, and even giraffes on stilts!), snacks, and carousel rides.Â

We had never been to Zoobilee before and I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the zoo takes online reservations and sets a limit on people, so the crowds were mild. The animals were either enjoying the time of day or the weather, because they were more active and alert than we’ve ever seen them before. The bears swam and rough housed, the mountain lion prowled, the otters swam and pushed at each other. It was a wonderful evening for the children, and a special chance to spend an evening as a family of four doing something just for them.

What about you? What local memberships do you enjoy? If you are a member of the Houston Zoo, did you get a chance to head to Zoobilee this year? Post comments below!

Have you ever planned a family picnic, only to find other families with the same idea thronging to the park you have chosen? Have you ever wished you could find someplace a bit smaller? Less crowded? More private? There is such a place, right in the heart of Katy.

Thomas Park is a charming little recreational area at the end of 3rd Street, just off Avenue D. This quaint green space boasts large trees, a play ground, a gazebo, picnic tables, park benches and paved walkways. It is spacious enough to contain everything including a restroom facility, yet small enough to feel like you have your own personal green space.

At one end of the park, the key attraction is the Tri-County Marker designating the junction where Katy's three counties meet: Waller (to the North), Fort Bend (Southwest), and Harris (East) Counties. The original marker is a triangular, concrete pillar, whittled to a nub by time and weather.  The county names engraved into each of the pillar's three sides are equally worn by time and weather, making them difficult to read. The pillar is now permanently affixed atop a triangular base of concrete, surrounded on all sides by bricks and marble plaques engraved with each of the County names. The plaques, as with the sides of the pillar, face the direction of their respective counties.

The park is named after Oliver Thomas, one of Katy's founding fathers. Thomas moved with his family from Mississippi to help settle this growing farming community along the MKT Railroad. In 1885, Thomas purchased 320 acres of land. He created the initial plan which became the original

 blueprint for the City of Katy. His plan included two parks, one which became Mary Jo Peckham Park, and the other which became the town square. Thomas Park was donate in 1907 by one of his heirs, J. O. Thomas, L C. Luckel, and R. M. Cash.

Do you know of any other small picnic areas suitable for family fun in or near Katy?

April 13, 2010 – Katy, Texas – Have you investigated navigating the City of Houston? Chances are, you took one look at the road maps and decided that, if it wasn't close to home, you’d have to do without. Here are a few tips for navigating Katy's largest neighbor without becoming overwhelmed.

If you absolutely must drive, here are a few highway basics. The major crossroads are: I-10 running East/West, and both I-45 and U.S. 59 which go North/South. The Hardy Toll Road runs North/ South from Spring to downtown. The Westpark Toll Road runs East/West from Highway 99 to I-610. There are two loops around Houston: the inner loop (I-610) and the outer loop (Beltway, or the Sam Houston Tollway). Further out, State Highway 6 travels most of the way around Houston and Highway 99 will eventually go around the city. For more specific street directions, it's best to look up the information before you leave and always carry a map.

If you don't want to drive, you have the options of taking a taxi or a bus. Either option is reasonably affordable. Houston has a fleet of over 200 taxis in service. A small fare of $6 makes getting around Houston's business district a snap. As you’ve  probably guessed, longer distances command higher fares. The maximum fare is roughly in the vicinity of 75 dollars. The city of Katy also has a couple of taxi companies with comparable fares.

Don't want to take a taxi? No problem. Try the Metro's two Katy Park and Ride stations. A bus gets you downtown at a cost of $4.50 for a trip that lasts approximately one hour. You get to ride in air conditioned comfort, while you read your newspaper or book … or take a nap.

The Park and Ride locations are the #222 Grand Parkway route, at 1030 W. Grand Parkway North, and the #221 Kingsland route, at 21669 Kingsland

 Boulevard. For the Grand Parkway Park and Ride, take Grand Parkway north from I-10. Turn right at Mercantile and another right on Grand Circle Drive. The designated parking area is the east end of the Cinemark parking lot. The covered bust stop is across the street on Grandville. The Kingsland Park and Ride is on Kingsland, between Mason and Westgreen. It offers a large parking lot and a fully covered passenger drop off / pickup area.

Schedules are available on Metro's website at: http://www.ridemetro.org/. Keep in mind that Metro has special hours of operation for weekends and holidays. Bus passes are available for those who use the bus system regularly. Metro even has a special deal for anyone lucky enough to be called up for Jury Duty. Show your jury summons for a free ride in and ask for a pass for the return ride. The bus drops you off about six short blocks away from the jury meeting room.

Do you have any more tips for getting around? Do you have any more ideas for making driving easier?

It has been an interesting time for Katy residents as the Health Care and Reconciliation Act bills recently became law. Below is a list of provisions in the new legislation that all Katy residents should know. The following items will be implemented throughout 2010.Â

To be implemented immediately:

To be implemented July 1

To be implemented by October 1

My future posts will describe what the law provides from 2011 â€" 2020.

So how does this new law affect you and your family? Are you happy about the new health care bill or does it cause you great concern. Let me know what you think. Email me at [email protected] I am running an unofficial survey and will publish the findings in a future blog. I look forward to hearing from you.

My family and I have never experienced living in a neighborhood with HOA’s before Katy, Texas. Meaning the fees or the benefits. There are plenty of benefits, and I had to overcome my frustration with the fact that I could not have chickens in the backyard (“Even if they are kept inside an enclosure?” I asked the representative on the phone in disbelief, while she practically snorted “Absolutely NOT!”) before I could stop to appreciate the strengths of HOA’s! Well, after I got over my initial trepidation with this new idea, I decided to explore what I could do in my backyard. Or at the park, the gym, the pool, and all the other beautiful amenities that we, after $700 a year, bought rights to!

"So I can’t have more than two in-laws at the pool with us?” I asked the clubhouse receptionist, as she gave me the “tour.” This time I think my jaw was dropping, because she looked at me funny with her head tilted, as she slowly nodded, “That’s right, maam.” So I need to call up those friends and family members that I promised could come over and swim for the Fourth of July party! Other plans are now necessary.

The gym has been a real good deal though, as I use it about twice a month. At least now, I don’t have to feel guilty for paying a monthly due, and not ever making an appearance at said institution! It has a TV though, large and loud, so maybe I’ll go work out just to get some “Me time,” away from the kids, and feel productive at the same time. Hmmmm, what would I look like after 30 minutes of treadmill? At the rate of twice a month, of course.

The kids, undoubtedly, are getting the most out of the park and surrounding walking trail, complete with a gorgeous pagoda, pond and waterfall. And “Beware of Alligators”sign. Really? This place is something else! I guess I won’t be bringing Lacey, our little Chihuahua and Yorkie mix to the pond for a walk! I can just see that now; my baby, as alligator bait…Â

Needless to say, this country girl at heart isn’t completely sold on HOA rules and regulations, (“I only get to have two yard sales a year?” The representative, very tired of me by now, sighs loudly. “Yes, and only on these dates…”)  I’ll see more benefits in time, I’m sure, in time.

Obviously this was a humorous take on being in neighborhoods with HOA regulations. What do you think? Are you in a similar neighborhood and do you like the rules? What kind of benefits do you have? Or maybe you live in a “restriction-free” area. I would love to hear your viewpoint!

My mother and I both went back to school and got our Masters in Library Science. That means, among other things, that my children have a double dose of avid readers gifting them with books upon books. And they love it!

With the beautiful weather outside and the promise of longer evenings, there are a few favorite books I like to read with my children during this season especially. Some are oldies but goodies, while others are recent discoveries.Â

*The Aminal by Lorna Balian â€" This is a fun little story about a boy who finds an aminal. The children spend the rest of the book picturing what this aminal might look like, and in the end, all are surprised by the friendly creature.

*Fancy Nancy Explorer Extrodinaire by Jane O’Conner and Robin Preiss Glaser â€" Fancy Nancy is a favorite with my prissy little girl, and in Explorer Extrodinaire, Fancy Nancy shows her reader that it is fancy to learn about nature and be an explorer. I love reading this book and then heading out to do some exploring of our own!

*The Golden Egg Book by Margaret Wise Brown â€" The pictures are beautiful, and I love to stop half way through the book and have my girls draw pictures of what they think goes inside of an egg like the one in the book. Literature and science, nicely meshed.

*Quick as a Cricket by Audrey Wood â€" This book has similies comparing a child to many different animals. Beautiful pictures and great comparisons make this a librarian’s favorite; acting out the different similies make this a child’s favorite.

*Cat by Martin Van Fleet â€" This is a great hands on book, fun for any time of year. However, I do love reading books about animals in the spring time, and my daughter has recently renewed her love for this book as well. We love the squeaking ball!

How about you? What are your favorite picture books to read during the spring time? Post a comment below!

Life Church of Katy is an excited host to two different musical events coming up in April. The first is guest Rick Pino this Saturday, the 10th of April and is being held at 7PM in the fellowship hall at Life, which is located at 2610 Greenbusch Rd. in Katy. For information on Rick and his musical ministry, you can visit his website at www.RickPino.com.Â

He usually charges for these events, but has “connections” within the congregation at Life Church and is giving away his gift on Saturday! So come join him and Life in this awesome evening!

 The next event is Kim Walker on Saturday the 24th, at 7PM and Sunday the 25th at 10:30 AM, where she will lead worship for the regular morning service. Again, this event is FREE to attend, and Kim has a powerful ministry in worship. See her detailed information on her website at www.kimwalkermusic.com. She is also known for her role in the revival in youth ministry today. Her home base is Bethel Church in Redding, California, where she is an integral part of the ministry there.

Please note that there is no childcare provided for these events, but young children are welcome to attend with their parents. If you would like complete directions, or any other info on these or other events at Life Church of Katy, you may do so at www.lifechurchkaty.com.Â

Do you have any events coming up at your community church that are open to the public? Let me know, and we can inform the community about them!

My children, ages 18 months and 3 ½ years, are very busy. They (luckily) love playing together and most often keep each other pretty well entertained. We’ve reached a point where I can even spend 5 minutes tending to a household chore while the children play nearby. We’re in the eye of the storm: my baby has not yet hit her terrible twos, and my oldest daughter understands how to share to some extent. It is wonderful.

Yet in this blissful break, it is also important to me that I remember my favorite poem of all time. It is called “Song for a Fifth Child” by Ruth Hulburt Hamilton, and while I never plan to have a fifth child to recite the poem to, I love the heart of the message: “The cleaning and scrubbing will wait till tomorrow, for children grow up, as I’ve learned to my sorrow. So quiet down, cobwebs. Dust go to sleep. I’m rocking my baby and babies don't keep.”

I heard it said once that it takes a lot of effort to pursue your child’s heart. Case in point: at age 3 ½, my daughter’s first response when I ask her what she did that day at school? “Played.” It can seem like pulling teeth to get more information out of her, and even at a young age when she still craves my time, I am well aware of how easy it would be to let time (and my children) slip away.

I’ve skated the line between getting the house clean and comfortable to live in and paying attention to my children constantly for the last 3 ½ years. What I have finally come to as my reasonable solution is spending 30 minutes of one on one, attention focused time on each child during the day.

Since the girls nap at the same time, I am not ever actually alone with each child. Rather, they know when their 30 minutes happens, they can choose to do anything they would like: bake muffins, paint, swing outside, play dolls. I spend that amount of time focused on the interests of that child, allowing the other sibling to play along but not to dominate the attention.Â

This accomplishes two things for me. First, I feel so much less guilt about telling the girls no when they ask me to stop doing the dishes and dance with them. At some point, the dishes have to get done. If I know they will be getting (or have already gotten) special time with me, I can accept the fact that less important things (like dishes or laundry) are filling other parts of my day. The second thing our one on one time accomplishes is that it opens the door for communication and allows me to become a teammate and a friend to them on some level. It was during one on one play that I was able to work through a friend struggle with my oldest recently.Â

I know there are many ways to balance housework and children. I’m so thankful I’ve found one small way to tip the scales more towards balanced.

Do you have any advice about balancing housework and children? Post a comment below!

Thanks so much! Angela McClinton www.averyandkate.blogspot.com

My family and I have joked since we moved here that Texas is the only place where you see goats in the front yards and horses in the back! Being the country girl that I am at heart, I love that fact! I have always loved horses, and my siblings and I were lucky enough to experience them growing up. So I decided to do some research online about what Katy has to offer our kids as far as horseback riding lessons, and I found some interesting information.Â

Here are several locations that offer lessons for children (and adults, if you are interested in experiencing time with these incredible animals for yourself!) Circle Lake Ranch is located only one minute from I-10 on FM 1463, and they offer many services, from the basic horseback riding lessons to western and english riding styles. They start at age seven to adult, and charge $200 monthly, for 50 minutes of riding, and 10 minutes of tack knowledge. They also offer summer day camps, beginning in June, for $350 a week. You can check out all the details for yourself at their website at circlelakeranch.com, or call 281-395-4311.

Another source that looks fascinating is the Blue Ribbon Meadows non-profit off Breckendorff Rd. in Katy. Riding lessons are for everyone, again, (they didn't specify minimum age) and cost $45 an hour for group, $50 an hour for private lessons. This place is a neat find, as they offer horses for adoption, for a fee of only $200. They have many horses available right now that need good homes. Many other services, such as full boarding starting at $500 monthly, are available. You can view all the great experiences and services ready for your enjoyment at blueribbonmeadows.com or call Barbara Jacobs (Owner, Head Trainer) at 281-371-3004.

A couple of other places were also listed online, Riding High Stable which is in Katy, and ran by Brent Workman. Lessons start at age 5, and he can be reached at 832-528-2161 and ridinghighstables.com. Last but not least, Bright Star Stables in Brookshire, which is only a few short miles from Katy, and can be found at brightstarstables.com or reached at 281-375-8400. Jenee Pulliam was listed as contact.

Hopefully this has been inspiring to you, as horses and children make a great combination! Lessons aren’t just a hobby, they teach children responsibility, a healthy respect for these great animals, and give them something to look forward to each week! Is there a local place that I didn’t cover in this post? Please feel free to comment on it for our other readers! Do you have a comment on any of these places listed? Let us know your personal experiences and how you would rate it!

As an avid gardner who had struggled with the oppressive heat and lack of natural moisture back in Arizona, I have to admit I was relieved to be coming to live in Katy where it is green and wet! I looked up the statistics online before we even arrived here last fall, and was the thrilled with the promise of a lack of cold weather and bounty of rain. I told friends that I would be able to “throw the seeds in the ground, and they’ll just grow!” OK, I’ll admit, I’ve doubted those numbers a lot recently, as this area went through record-breaking cold weather, rainfall, and even heat this past six months!   Needless to say, I’ll tell you that it hasn’t been quite that easy to garden here! It is, however, not a disappointment to me at all.

I tried a couple of different options this year for planting, just to see how it would go. I planted seeds inside, in the seedling trays you can find at Wal-mart. I also planted the same seeds outside by the first week in March. (I planted bulbs, like the onions, garlic and flowers, earlier, around the beginning of February.) Interestingly, the outside seeds are doing better as far as strength and tolerance. The inside seeds grew larger plants, but not as hardy to the weather. Of course, the typical hardier plants are doing fine from both seed groups, such as the pepper and tomato plants. It helps, I’m sure, that our yard has an automatic sprinkler system to water my “babies.” So far, so good, yet I know I have many battles ahead of me with the heat, birds and bugs to deal with as Spring grows on.

What do you think about this past year’s record breaking weather; has it wreaked havoc on your garden? Did you lose any longstanding favorites to the freezes, or did your plants come out of the storm still kicking? Am I in for more surprises, or is the weather usually fairly normal around here? I would love your feedback!

As the chill of winter melts into spring, there seems to be a certain feeling of excitement in the air. Color emerges from every yard as the grass turns green and the trees and shrubs blossom with new growth. Families can be seen working in their yards- trimming bushes, clearing fallen leaves, spreading mulch, planting flowers- creating a natural work of art. Flowers fill the medians as care is taken to beautifully adorn the city of Katy.Â

Yes, spring has arrived. Cool breezes float gently into homes as air conditioning is postponed for a brief time.  We have the desire to sort closets, clean out the garage, dust the blinds, and get rid of some of the clutter. The inside, as well as the outside of our homes, emerges, new and improved. Birds sing happily and create a symphony of melodious harmony, and we try to savor every last minute of the cool, temperate weather.

What is it about spring that gives us the desire to create, explore, renew and prioritize? Is it the warmer weather?  Is it the knowledge that summer is around the corner? Is there something in the air that motivates us? Well, frankly, I don’t know what it is, but there is something magical about spring that causes us to act. It is a time to pause, take note of all the beautiful and sublime, and then work to make things better.

So, while we have the added energy to clean, sort, and decorate, let us also take time to prioritize the fun activities that we can enjoy in the spring. It is a great time to take the children to the park, go for a bike ride, take a family walk, pack a picnic lunch, plan a barbeque with the neighbors, shop at an outdoor shopping center, and visit the zoo (just to name a few).  Â

Happy Spring to all! I will be looking at your beautiful yards as I drive around town and will be admiring the beautiful city of Katy in all of its spring glory!

What are your favorite spring activities? Have you started your spring cleaning? What tips do you have for making the most of spring? Post a comment below.

When holidays roll around, the pull towards the kitchen gets stronger. My desire to bake to make every occasion special is so deep rooted that I have had the hardest time breaking the trend.

I should stop and present this disclaimer: I’m not against sugar intake. On the contrary, I love all things sugar. But at some point, when the kitchen is overflowing with candy and my daughter brings home cupcakes from Nana’s house, the need to bake sugar cookies just because it’s a holiday deserves an honest assessment.

This Easter, I realized that we, as a family, are on sugar overload without me adding to the baking mix. I knew this cognitively, but there was a powerful inner force that kept bringing me back to the kitchen, over and over again, reaching for the mixer. “But baking a bunny cake is tradition,” I’d tell myself. Or, “Sugar cookies at every holiday is so much fun! I want my kids to have fun, don’t I?”

Honestly, though, our counters were piled high with chocolate cake from the great-grandparents, cupcakes from the grandparents, and endless eggs full of candy. All delicious. And also sufficient.

So, this Easter I squelched the need to bake for fun’s sake. But it did still leave a void in our home that I am hoping to get creative ideas to fill. If I don’t need to bake, is there something more nutritious I can do with my children that will still make the holidays special? Can I find a way to get veggies in front of my children instead of sugar, while still in the spirit of the season?

My first idea is to use raw veggies on a pizza crust covered with a Ranch dip to decorate a bunny, like I would a cake. I didn’t think of it this year until the day after Easter, but I am excited to think ahead to other potential sugar traps.Â

The Fourth of July, for example, comes complete with a fruit pizza, homemade ice cream, cookies, and sometimes a cake. I do not need to add to the delicious dessert stash. But perhaps my children and I can use fruit in a healthy way. Maybe we’ll make a flag on homemade whole wheat toast spread with low-fat cream cheese icing.Â

My goal is to begin collecting healthy alternatives for kitchen fun long before each holiday. If I’m prepared with my bowl full of colorful fruits and vegetables, with a plan in hand, hopefully I can add health to the season. As long as the sugar is also readily available, that is!

I could really use some help. Do you have a healthy kitchen alternative for any major holiday to share? Post your comment below.Â

Blog Post Entry

When holidays roll around, the pull towards the kitchen gets stronger. My desire to bake to make every occasion special is so deep rooted that I have had the hardest time breaking the trend.

I should stop and present this disclaimer: I’m not against sugar intake. On the contrary, I love all things sugar. But at some point, when the kitchen is overflowing with candy and my daughter brings home cupcakes from Nana’s house, the need to bake sugar cookies just because it’s a holiday deserves an honest assessment.

This Easter, I realized that we, as a family, are on sugar overload without me adding to the baking mix. I knew this cognitively, but there was a powerful inner force that kept bringing me back to the kitchen, over and over again, reaching for the mixer. “But baking a bunny cake is tradition,” I’d tell myself. Or, “Sugar cookies at every holiday is so much fun! I want my kids to have fun, don’t I?”

Honestly, though, our counters were piled high with chocolate cake from the great-grandparents, cupcakes from the grandparents, and endless eggs full of candy. All delicious. And also sufficient.

So, this Easter I squelched the need to bake for fun’s sake. But it did still leave a void in our home that I am hoping to get creative ideas to fill. If I don’t need to bake, is there something more nutritious I can do with my children that will still make the holidays special? Can I find a way to get veggies in front of my children instead of sugar, while still in the spirit of the season?

My first idea is to use raw veggies on a pizza crust covered with a Ranch dip to decorate a bunny, like I would a cake. I didn’t think of it this year until the day after Easter, but I am excited to think ahead to other potential sugar traps.Â

The Fourth of July, for example, comes complete with a fruit pizza, homemade ice cream, cookies, and sometimes a cake. I do not need to add to the delicious dessert stash. But perhaps my children and I can use fruit in a healthy way. Maybe we’ll make a flag on homemade whole wheat toast spread with low-fat cream cheese icing.Â

My goal is to begin collecting healthy alternatives for kitchen fun long before each holiday. If I’m prepared with my bowl full of colorful fruits and vegetables, with a plan in hand, hopefully I can add health to the season. As long as the sugar is also readily available, that is!

I could really use some help. Do you have a healthy kitchen alternative for any major holiday to share? Post your comment below.Â

My two and half year-old son loves all things motor! He has a large collection of Matchbox and Hot Wheel cars, a few trains, and some airplanes to play with at home. When we go outside, he is always looking up to find planes or helicopters.

My husband and I recently took him to the West Houston Airport (18000 Groschke Rd. 77084). You may not have even known this little gem was right here in Katy! It was a huge hit with all of us.

It’s a real, working airport. When we go, we are treated to planes taking off, landing, and parking. It’s fun for our son to see the different colors and sizes of the planes. Once we saw a dog getting out of the plane, and he thought that was a real hoot!

The airport is open 24 hours. The interior is comfortable and provides information about flight lessons and airplanes for sale. There is an unmanned bookstore which we like to peruse for some used books. Of course, there are toy planes and flight paraphernalia for sale. Children will love it.

We usually walk upstairs to best observe the planes. I have to warn you that there is no elevator. The second floor is about 25 steps up, and this pregnant lady was not up to the challenge! I waited downstairs in a comfy chair while my husband took our budding pilot upstairs.

This would be a fun and air-conditioned stop for you and your family as you’re looking for activities to do these days. You can make it a learning experience even more by researching some types of planes and mapping out flight paths. Younger children can identify colors, shapes, and numbers on the planes. Everyone will enjoy watching them land and take off!

Have you ever been to the West Houston Airport? Where do you like to take your family as the weather heats up? I’d love to hear from you.

Several days ago, I went to my child’s elementary school for a class party. Upon entering the classroom, I felt like a rock star! When the children saw me, they all began saying, “Hi, Mrs. Lewis! I remember you! How are you?” You see, I had been their Junior Achievement teacher, so I had taught five short Junior Achievement lessons in their classroom. I had loved every minute! As I walked into the classroom, I felt honored that they knew me and felt even happier as I watched my son swell with pride. I have really enjoyed helping in the Katy School District.

I am amazed at the parent support in the Katy schools. I have never seen more parents who are willing to donate time and energy to making the schools better.   Some parents spend hours and hours volunteering at the schools as room mothers, PTA board members, lunchroom helpers, library volunteers, workday helpers, party planners, and organizers of special programs such as PATHS, Ranger Science, and Junior Achievement.  No wonder the schools are so good in Katy! The parent support is unmatched! I have just started to become acquainted with all the volunteer opportunities, but, boy is it fun!   Â

Last week my husband and I volunteered to read in my son’s kindergarten classroom. The children looked at us with wide, eager eyes as we read some of our favorite children’s books to them.  Since reading is a passion of mine, I was thrilled to be able to share this love with some of my son’s classmates.

Another time this year, I helped with PATHS (Parents and Teachers Helping Students). The theme was “Traditions around the World”. Each of the Kindergarten classrooms was decorated to look like a given country. As children entered each classroom, they were taught about the country’s food, dress, customs and culture. What an amazing day that was!

Opportunities abound in the Katy School district. You can volunteer as little or as much as you are able. If you have always wanted to be treated like a rock star, trust me, volunteering in the classroom is where it’s at!Â

What has been your favorite volunteer activity in Katy? Post a comment below.

While building our new home in Katy, we frequently visited the building site to watch the progress of our home. It seemed as if every time we came to the home, neighbors greeted us and extended a warm welcome to the neighborhood. Being new to a city is sometimes difficult and I have been grateful for the friendly folk of Katy, Texas. Neighborly neighbors really make one feel at home.Â

Since settling into our home, I have learned from the examples of many great neighbors. I believe that being a good neighbor truly makes you a better person. Looking out for the needs of others takes the focus from self and helps us to learn and grow. Let me share some of the kind acts performed by my fabulous neighbors.

Upon moving into our new home, several neighbors stopped by to exchange phone numbers with us.  They introduced themselves and let me know that they were friends that I could turn to if a need arose. It was a great comfort knowing that if I found myself in a bind, I had some kind and willing neighbors who could step in and help.

I have some neighbors who love to celebrate holidays and they willingly open their homes to the other families in the neighborhood. Attending these neighborhood festivities has strengthened friendships and has allowed us to really get to know each other.Â

Discussions at the bus stop have at times been the highlight of my day. I had to laugh when, on one particular morning at the bus stop, my neighbor asked where I was going.   I realized that she had never seen me in clothes other than my pajamas. I told her that I do get dressed each day, she just never saw me that way! On occasion, when a mother or father has to leave early in the morning, neighbors are willing to step in to make sure the children make it safely to the bus stop.

Random acts of kindness are abundant in a good neighborhood. At times, a neighbor will drop off a batch of cookies, or will leave an anonymous surprise. My children get very excited and try to guess who the secret giver could be.  Then, they want to make a treat for those who have been kind to us. When a neighbor has a baby or needs surgery, other neighbors plan to bring in meals and assist with child care. Last week, one neighbor gave my boys a big tub of balls. Their children have grown and they thought my boys would enjoy them, which they will!

Sometimes a simple wave or smile from a kind neighbor will cheer my day. It is great to have met so many kind people on my street, and it has made me want to be a better neighbor. How has a Katy neighbor touched your life? Please share a comment below.

We took a road trip to Austin last weekend. It was a quick trip with very little time to stop and smell the roses (or to stop and take photos with the bluebonnets). But while we were driving, I made it my personal mission to scout bluebonnet spots along I10.

I was surprised to see many, many Indian Paintbrushes but very few patches of bluebonnets. They were out along the side of the road, but not in any real numbers. It wasn’t until 2 hours outside of Katy on I10 that I started noticing fields of bluebonnets and cars pulled over to take pictures.Â

I love taking annual pictures in the bluebonnets with my children. But a 2 hour trip seems a bit excessive just to snap a few shots.

Two years ago, we loaded my then 19 month old daughter into the car and drove up and down roads for about an hour before giving up and heading back for home. That year, we captured no bluebonnet shots. Just an adorable little girl in the grass.

Last year we had much better luck. Twice we stumbled upon amazing bluebonnets â€" as far as the eye could see. We snapped some of my favorite photos of my girls (now two of them!) and enjoyed a picnic dinner in the spring sun.

This year, I haven’t yet tried our other two lucky spots from last year: 290 on the way to Brenham and a few hot spots in Fulshear, just off of 1093. Our plan is to load the girls up on Saturday and try out these two locations. It’d be wonderful to find some bluebonnets close to home. I have a feeling that if it comes down to a two hour trip out to Austin for pictures or skipping the shots, we’ll end up skipping the shots. My girls’ patience only lasts so long.

I’m also curious if the excess of Indian Paintbrushes and lack of bluebonnets has something to do with the long winter. It will be interesting to see if the Indian Paintbrushes are more numerous than the bluebonnets in our favorite spots as well. I’ll have to make sure to dress the girls in something that will look good with blue or red flowers.

Does anyone have a sure fire spot that they’ve visited this year? How were the bluebonnets? Were there many Indian Paintbrushes?

My family loves to go out for ice cream. We have two daughters, and to save money, we usually buy one kids cone and then half it between two bowls for them to share. But this Wednesday, April 28th at Baskin-Robbins, they will each enjoy their very own scoop of ice cream. Baskin-Robbins stores across the nation are hosting a 31 Cent Scoop Night. They will donate $100,000 to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and reduce the price of a scoop of ice cream to 31 cents from 5:00 pm until 10:00 pm this Wednesday night. Some locations will also provide customers with the opportunity to give back to local fire departments as well. For our family, ice cream and supporting a great cause is a winning combination. It’s no question where we’ll be on Wednesday night!

The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation is a non-profit organization devoted to keeping the memory of fallen firefighters alive and assisting the families of those who have lost their lives fighting fires. For more information, visit www.firehero.org.

With the warmer weather and the promise of summer right around the corner, and ice cream night is perfectly timed. (Although, we would probably head out for 31 cent ice cream scoops in the middle of a cold front. We love ice cream!)Â

There are two Baskin-Robbins store locations in Katy: one at 6920 South Fry Road (Suite A) and one at 1560 South Mason Road (Suite B). For more information, visit http://www.baskinrobbins.com/spotlight/31CentScoopNight.aspx. So come on out for reduced cost ice cream and to support a great cause!

Our family enjoys participating in charity events in and around Katy. Do you know of something we might be interested in? Post a comment below!

Where I’ll Be on Wednesday Night

Subtitle:Â Baskin-Robbins is hosting a 31 Cent Scoop Night

Filed Under: Katy Scene

Text:

My family loves to go out for ice cream. We have two daughters, and to save money, we usually buy one kids cone and then half it between two bowls for them to share. But this Wednesday, April 28th at Baskin-Robbins, they will each enjoy their very own scoop of ice cream. Baskin-Robbins stores across the nation are hosting a 31 Cent Scoop Night. They will donate $100,000 to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and reduce the price of a scoop of ice cream to 31 cents from 5:00 pm until 10:00 pm this Wednesday night. Some locations will also provide customers with the opportunity to give back to local fire departments as well. For our family, ice cream and supporting a great cause is a winning combination. It’s no question where we’ll be on Wednesday night!

The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation is a non-profit organization devoted to keeping the memory of fallen firefighters alive and assisting the families of those who have lost their lives fighting fires. For more information, visit www.firehero.org.

With the warmer weather and the promise of summer right around the corner, and ice cream night is perfectly timed. (Although, we would probably head out for 31 cent ice cream scoops in the middle of a cold front. We love ice cream!)Â

There are two Baskin-Robbins store locations in Katy: one at 6920 South Fry Road (Suite A) and one at 1560 South Mason Road (Suite B). For more information, visit http://www.baskinrobbins.com/spotlight/31CentScoopNight.aspx. So come on out for reduced cost ice cream and to support a great cause!

Our family enjoys participating in charity events in and around Katy. Do you know of something we might be interested in? Post a comment below!

We attended the 2nd Annual Easter Fest event last night at a local church, The Waters Church, located on 2710 North Mason Road #145 in Katy. We arrived slightly early since my children are young and would need to head home to sleep before the event was over.

When we arrived, everything was being set up: no less than 4 bouncy houses, a pony ride, a balloon artist, a petting zoo, popcorn, hot dogs, and 2 brand new 2010 fire engines (one with a ladder)! Chuck E. Cheese was there as well, and for the lucky early birds, he had cotton candy that he was handing out. Within the first 30 minutes, we had already enjoyed our hot dog dinner, 2 of the jump houses, and were waiting for a turn on the pony rides. After watching my 3 ½ year old ride a pony and marveling at how big she is getting, we headed to the balloon artist for our own personal Easter Fest tradition: a pink and purple butterfly balloon. My daughters were in carnival heaven!

One exciting element that I am certain the church will not want to add to their annual tradition of Easter Fest is their Lead Pastor’s trip to the ER. Apparently, right before the festival began, Lead Pastor Clint Paschall was doing tricks on his skate board and fell pretty hard on his arm. He didn’t seem to show much evidence of being in pain throughout the first hour or so of the festival. He was on the microphone and chatting with people as if everything was fine, but apparently he was in a good deal of pain. At some point in the evening, he headed to the hospital, and, as it turns out, has a broken arm.Â

Even without the lead pastor, the festival was a lot of fun and seemed to be a great success. We plan on being back again next year for our annual pink-and-purple butterfly balloon and jumping house fun.

What about you? Were you able to make it out to Easter Fest? If not, what Easter activities have you enjoyed or are you looking forward to?

I love to read. I have to limit myself to the amount of “for pleasure” reading that I do because I tend to get so involved with the book that I neglect my house, my children and my husband until the last word on the last page. I’ve found that self-help books are a bit easier to pull myself away from; the information takes a while to digest and if I read too much too quickly I tend to forget what I’ve read. Â

I have a pile of no less than 8 books and magazines sitting next to my bedside right now, and all of them are self-help, books for better living, or parenting related. I am in the middle of all 8 of them, and I really do love them all. Â

When it comes to parenting books, there are the highly touted (and highly controversial) baby sleep books, but I am talking about so much more than that. I love anything inspirational, funny, or helpful about raising children or activities I can do with my children. What follows is a list of my favorite 10 parenting books and magazines from my reading over the last year or so.Â

What books do you recommend to an avid Parenting-Book-Reader? I can’t wait to get started on more great reads! Post a comment below with your recommendations!

There are days that feel like I am running a marathon. I wake up running, and don't stop until I drop into bed at night. These are magical, fun and beautiful times, but boy, it takes all of my strength to keep up!

I find that in the midst of being a homemaker, wife and mother, I often put my own needs on the back burner. And, despite having a husband who is willing to do anything to help me, I find that many days, after I have met the needs of each of my children, I feel completely depleted.

So one day, I decided to make a "To-Do List". It is a mommy-preservation list that I vow to do my best to heed. I don't always take care of myself as I should, but, the list exists and I know when I try to do the things on the list, I am a better woman for doing so. Here is the list:

My To-Do List

-Deflect Stress -Listen to my body -Rest when tired -Allow messes to wait

I knew I had found Mr. Right when, after a fun evening together, my date asked if he could give me a kiss. As I nodded and prepared for our first awkward kiss, my date then proceeded to pull a bag of Hershey Kisses from his pocket. He didn’t kiss me that night, but we had a good laugh! I fell in love with this funny man and today, after nearly sixteen years of marriage, laughing is still one of our favorite shared pastimes. Laughter is truly the perfect medicine. It is not only fun and free, but there are many physical, mental and social benefits.

Physical Benefits– A good, hearty laugh can actually relieve stress and cause the body to relax for up to forty-five minutes. Laughter boosts the immune system, decreases pain, and can prevent disease.  Â

Mental Benefits– Laughter adds joy to life, improves one’s mood, eases anxiety and fear and boosts resilience.

Social Benefits– Shared laughter is the best form of laughter. Laughter is contagious and is infectious to all. Laughing with others strengthens relationships, decreases conflict and promotes bonding.

Life, with all of its ups and downs must be laughed about. I must confess that some of the most embarrassing moments have turned into some of the most humorous, due to my husband, who loves to laugh. I am reminded of one particular time when our entire family showed up Sunday morning at another family’s home for breakfast. We found it odd that they came to the door in their pajamas, but walked in and thanked them profusely for the invitation. After about a half an hour of conversation, we realized that they weren’t the family that had invited us. Being new to the neighborhood, we had confused them with another family, who had the same last name. Though it was an embarrassing situation for both families, we have laughed about this incident time and time again.

Another time, my husband awoke early for work and, trying not to disturb me, left the lights out while grabbing his shoes. Later that day, he discovered he was wearing two completely different shoes. I will never forget the look on his face as I delivered one shoe to his office.

Some of the best humor is had in reflecting on past humorous experiences. Finding humor every day creates a never ending bank of fun from which one can withdraw at any time.  So, go ahead, laugh! And, while your add it, infect someone else!Â

What humorous situations have you found yourself in? Please share below!

Movies like Hotel Rwanda and Slumdog Millionaire have always been an issue for me. On the one hand, I’m glad truth finds it way into pop culture, but on the other, I spend a lot of time wondering what truth is really worth when there is little I can do about problems so huge.Â

I’ve known of Compassion International my whole life but it has never been very real to me. I mean, it sort of seemed like a "good" thing to do. Â

But suddenly all I could think of was movies like Hotel Rwanda and The Constant Gardener and even dear ole Jack Bauer in 24: Redemption. I mean, there is so, so much pain in the world and here I am, somehow, just by coincidence, born into the wealthiest nation in the world. I mean, who am I that I was born into such wealth? I could just as easily have been living among the millions and millions all over the world who starve to death and die of things like diarrhea because they drink bad water. Â

The way Compassion International works is you pay a set fee per month to sponsor one child in a third world country. The monthly fee provides this child with food, clean water, medical care, and an education. The sponsor and the sponsored child exchange letters as well. There are other charity organizations out there that do amazing things for children as well. This just happened to be the organization I was most familiar with.

So, we decided to sponsor a kid. I guess I thought it would cost a lot. $32 ya’ll. $32. I mean, we’re on a pretty tight budget and $32 is half of what we spend on date nights each month. And – get this – it is MORE THAN what our new child's dad makes in a month. When he can find work every day. Which he sometimes doesn't.  Suddenly our "tight budget" seems like extravagance.

We went online, filled out some info, and got to the part where we get to select a kid. You can choose a child based on birth date, country, whatever. Or you can choose to sponsor the kid whose been waiting to be sponsored the longest. Which of course brought to mind images of those beautiful starving kids in all of those movies. So I picked that.Â

My husband and I have been joking around, wondering if our new kid is a boy or a girl. I mean, we reasoned, with two girls of our own, we’re so good at girls. But, we thought, maybe this is our chance to have our boy. Haha.

Our Compassion information came today, and I’m excited to announce: It's a Boy! We’re proud "parents" of Aravind, a little man from India. I have to be honest here, I wasn't sure how much this little guy would really mean to me. I mean, really.

Oh, man. I love him. I love looking at his sweet little face. I’m hooked. I am already thinking of ways to cut our excessive American budget more so we can sponsor another child. This is what life is about! I’m just so excited about Aravind. Our little man.

This weekend we were looking for something special to do to spend time with our 3 ½ year old daughter, Avery. Since we’re fans of Katy Magazine on Facebook, we saw a few of the posts about the KVPAC Arts for All Festival sponsored by Katy Magazine. Avery is just now getting old enough to appreciate everything a festival like this has to offer, so we decided to take her.

We spent about 3 hours at La Centerra, walking around and enjoying the booths. We visited the Katy Magazine booth and Avery had a great time dancing to the 60’s themed music, but was too shy to get her photo taken. Hopefully she’ll be ready by next year! We watched a performance of The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe by KVPAC, enjoyed a live band, and participated in many “projects”, as Avery likes to call them.

The entire square of La Centerra was bustling with activity and booths. Children were singing karaoke, playing games and petting some lovable dogs. There was even a bounce house for jumping!Â

When we first arrived, we did a lap around the booths to take it all in. After Avery warmed up to the excitement and after she realized that each booth had something special for her to see or do, she really came alive. She was able to make a coffee filter butterfly, a marble-rolled painting, a shaker egg, and a stone tile decoration, among other things. She was having so much fun that after every project, she’d look up at me and beg, “I’m not ready to go yet! Just one more project… please!” We were an hour late getting home for nap time, but spending such a special day with my daughter was completely worth it! I cannot wait for next year’s Art for All Festival!

What about you? Did you get a chance to get out and experience the Art for All Festival? What was your family’s favorite activity?

I believe in the power of family meals every night.  I do not particularly care for processed foods, nor do I always have the time to make something fresh and fabulous each night.

So, if I am generally opposed to easy-to-prepare processed foods but I don’t have time to cook healthful meals, what do I do?Â

I meal swap.

Meal swapping is an idea that a few friends and I came up with to better answer the age-old question, “What’s for dinner?” Each month, I prepare 2 home cooked meals to share. I triple the recipe and feed one portion to my family that night. The other two portions I package up in freezer safe containers, label the top of the container with the name of the meal and the last minute preparation instructions, and put it in my freezer.Â

Once a month, my two girlfriends and I meet up with our ice chests and kids in tow and swap our meals. They’ve each come with 2 portions of two separate meals, and we dole them out: each of us gives away our four meals and each of us receives four new meals. It is a very good return for my time investment: I cook huge portions twice and in return I get 4 meals that are almost completely ready for me to serve.Â

Most often, the meals need to be defrosted and baked, neither of which takes much effort. And a major plus to this way of cooking is that I don’t have to come up with a creative menu item four times each month. My girlfriends have already done that for me!

A few helpful hints if this seems like something you’d be interested in doing:

*Try to recruit people with roughly the same family size as you. It would be unbalanced for a family of 2 to be cooking for a family of 6.

*I’ve found that 3 people in the group is ideal. It can be done with fewer, but tripling a recipe takes a lot of work and cooking more than that may make the hard work in the kitchen too much to handle.

*If you’re unable to find a group to meal swap with, consider doing this on your own. Double or triple your family’s favorite recipes and freeze them for your own use throughout the month.

*Some recipes freeze better than others. Avoid using recipes with heavy cream or other ingredients that may curdle when reheated.

*It’s best not to triple a new recipe until you know how it will end up. I always do a trial run of a new recipe on my family the month before I triple it to make sure it turns out.

*Experience is your best ally. It took me a while to figure out which recipes were cost-effective, easily frozen and reheated, and worth the effort of tripling them. Play with your favorite recipes and soon you’ll have a set of delicious, healthy meals at your disposal.

March 26, 2010 – Katy, Texas – Sitting at the kitchen table, I mulled over possible meals for the week. I flipped through the pages of a cookbook and read through various recipes as I started on my shopping list. I felt a tap on my shoulder and looked at my youngest child, Braden, as he began to describe in detail a building he had just made out of blocks. He tugged at my arm pleading for me to go and admire his creation. Dropping my pen by my cookbooks, I ran with him up the stairs to inspect his work. He anxiously awaited my reaction to his masterpiece. His building was indeed impressive and I told him exactly how amazed I was at his engineering skills. He smiled, gave me a hug and resumed his work.

I walked down the stairs and continued my list. Within seconds, my oldest child, Brandon, walked to the table and asked if I would help him plan his school schedule for the following year. He excitedly spoke of the many courses that were available at Seven Lakes High School. I looked at the class descriptions and for the next half an hour we planned his perfect schedule. With a grin, he left the kitchen to commence another activity.

Hm…I thought…soup sounds good for Wednesday. "Mom?” I heard a voice call. It was my daughter, Melissa. "I need you to help me with my math. Do you know what the formula is to find the area of a circle?" I smiled since I did remember this particular formula.

"It is Pi R Squared." I replied. She looked at me with admiration and asked if I would watch her work out the next few problems. As she successfully completed her work, she thanked me and left the kitchen.

The children love pizza. Perhaps we can make home-made pizza Friday night. "Mom! Come out to the trampoline!" My son, Bryan, breathlessly exclaimed. "I want to show you my back-flip. You won't believe it!" He reached for my hand and began to pull me to the back door.

As I watched Bryan jump contentedly on the trampoline, a mental picture came to mind. I pictured my children continually in orbit around me. At this point in their lives anyway, I was the gravitas pull that gave them bearing. Â As I thought about this image, I marveled at how important it was for me, as their mother, to provide consistent support and stability to each one of them.

Though I had been working on a meal recipe list, I felt as though I had stumbled upon a more significant recipe…a recipe for rearing happy children. And, I realized that the recipe started with me. I suppose I have my work cut out for me! What are some ways in which you show love and support to your children? Post a comment below.

March 25, 2010–Katy, TX — One of my most cherished memories from my childhood is family mealtime. After a busy day of school, lessons, chores and homework, it was refreshing to pause for a brief moment to connect with each other. I remember the savory aromas that called to each one of us to come. Sitting around the dinner table, we laughed, talked and each shared highlights from the day. To this day my parents, sisters and I remain very close. I know that some of this closeness is due to our daily connection point…the family meal. Now that I am married and have a family of my own, I have tried to carry on the tradition of family mealtime.

Scientific studies show there are numerous benefits to family mealtime. One recent study showed that working parents who were able to eat dinner with their families expressed greater job satisfaction. Other studies showed that children who have regular family meals eat more healthfully, and get better grades. Family mealtime is a practice that truly benefits children and parents alike. In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it is difficult to coordinate schedules and even to find a time when the entire family is home.  So how does a family create a habit of positive family mealtime?

First, make family mealtime a priority. Set a goal for two or more family meals per week and work to increase the frequency. Try to plan and schedule around family mealtime. Though not always an easy task, most days you will find it is possible.

Next, keep it simple. Family mealtime isn’t so much about eating as it is about the time a family sits and talks together. It doesn’t matter whether the meal is frozen pizza or an elaborate four course meal, it is simply an excuse to pause and spend time together. When a sit-down meal isn’t possible on a given day, gather for a bedtime snack instead.

It is important to keep the dinner conversation positive. Mealtime isn’t a time to discuss weighty or stressful issues. Nor is it a time to complain about other members of the family. Mealtime should be an uplifting experience for each family member.

Last, turn off the T.V. and ignore the phone. For a small moment, all attention should be focused on family. This is the very magic of family mealtime.

March 25, 2010 – Katy, Texas – I recently struck upon a picture of a "reading countess chair" while searching for comfortable seating for my classroom library. My heart did a little skip and a jump as I thought back to how I crafted my blog name, “Reading Countess.” As the only granddaughter for sixteen years, I was treated like royalty by my beloved grandfather. He was the only one in my family who called me "Contessa," a play on my "real name", and he went out of his way to treat me like a member of the royal court. Much to my brother's chagrin, I received preferential treatment by Granddaddy time and time again during my childhood. When we misbehaved, it was my brother and not I who was sent outside to pick the weeds. I was even given "fresh water baths" when I was really young. My grandfather carted buckets of water from the kitchen to fill the bathtub so that I would not be forced to take a bath using the pungent sulfur water from the rest of the farmhouse's plumbing system. Â

I delighted in the extra attention, but it was the time spent on my grandfather's lap that molded me to become what I am now-a reading teacher. Being the sole granddaughter came with my favorite perk of all. I was the only grandchild allowed to crawl up on his lap when he was reading one of his many thick books he devoured weekly. Peering over his shoulder through the smoke-laden air of his pipe, the value of the written word was palpable. Surrounded by wall to wall shelves of books in his living room, I learned at an early age that books were treasured in my family, and I desperately wanted to be a part of that seemingly secret reading world. Â

Having a "reading countess chair" in my classroom would be a silent nod to my loving Granddaddy. I will be looking for ways to add this touch very soon. But for now, the memory of him lighting a fire in me for literacy will have to suffice. Memories, and my "Reading Countess" surname, are all I have of him.

March 25, 2010 – Katy, Texas – Why drive when you can walk- Many individuals in the Katy area fortunately work in close vicinity to their homes yet feel the need to drive. Instead of wasting unnecessary gas money on a daily basis save a few dollars and lose a few calories by walking.

Exercise, even walking to start the day has been proven to ignite a greater level of productivity in many individuals. Although sidewalks seen to be non-existent in some Katy communities there is an abundance of great parks and walking trails that are open every day of the year .So if you are looking for a great way to stay active and alert simply walk.

No Gym, No Problem- As much as the local gym may seem appealing because of the innovative equipment and great environment it is not the only option. Jogging, biking, swimming, hiking and other outdoor activities are some of the best and most fun ways of staying active and offer a great cardiovascular workout.

Marathons and other events- There are many marathons and other events that offer a great opportunity to socialize and achieve a greater level of fitness. These events are free and are usually sponsored by groups or organizations that donate to foundations in order to help those in need. So not only are you working on your health but the health and benefit of others as well.

There are so many other alternatives to achieving a greater sense of self and fitness but hopefully these tips will help you in your pursuit of happiness. Do you have any tips of your own? Post a comment below!

March 25, 2010 – Katy, Texas – One of my favorite quotes is, “Children are made readers on the laps of their parents” (Emilie Buchwald). As a reading teacher, I know all too well the absolute importance that habitual reading (a minimum of twenty minutes spent reading each day outside of school) plays in the development of a child’s emotional and academic growth. Studies show that children who are exposed regularly to the joys of literature from a young age consistently rank in the top percentile when they are at the secondary level. Not only are vocabulary development and comprehension skills stronger than those of their peers, but knowledge gained through voracious reading then applies to all areas of the curriculum.

But what can a parent do when reading is a chore for a youngster? Read aloud, say the experts. Careful selection of high interest books can be a wonderful way to “reel” a reader into the joy of books. Young children typically enjoy repetitive books or books that contain rhymes. For an older child, selecting books that have sequels can sometimes entice a reader to want to continue a saga. I have found that tying books that have become movies helped to support my own reluctant reader son. Knowing that we would soon view the book’s movie was a motivating factor for my middle son. Thankfully, parents have no end to movies that have been adapted from books. As a rule, parents should encourage children to read the book prior to seeing the movie. For a comprehensive list of children’s books made into movies, please visit:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_children's_books_made_into_feature_films

By sharing a story together, parents create a bond with their child that creates lasting memories and forges learning well into the future.

What books have been successful with your child(ren)? Do you have stories about your youngster who at first did not seem anxious to read but who now gleefully reads with wild abandon? Please share!

Many Activities going on in Katy for children of all ages

March 24, 2010- Katy, TX — It's that time a year where we as parents are looking for things to do with our children for Easter. There are several places that will be holding events for a little or no fee in Katy. I always try to make it to as many events as I can especially if they are free. Our children love to do these activities and these are also memories to last for a lifetime. Here are some events that will be going on in Katy just make sure to put it on your calendar so you won't forget.

Katy Mills Mall will be having the Easter bunny in the mall from March 13- April 3 located in neighborhood six near American Outfitters store. If you are a Kidgits member then you can enjoy decorating a bucket for your eggs, a visit from the Easter bunny himself at Rainforest Cafe from 8am to 10am and an egg hunt. Don't worry if your not a member you can join that same day for a small fee.

Bass Pro Shop will also be holding fun activities for the children as well. They will be having a free picture with the Easter bunny and crafts from March 27- April 4 starting at noon. There will also be a egg hunt on March 27- April 4 for the children to enjoy with the exception of April 1 that day the Easter bunny will be off so he can give eggs to children around the world.

VFW Park will be having a Easter event for children with a petting zoo, face painting, photo with the Easter bunny for a small fee. This event will take place on March 26 starting at 4:30pm with a egg hunt for all ages. Egg hunts will be separated by ages so make sure to bring your basket to fill them up with all those wonderful eggs. Ages from 2yrs-3yrs will be at 5:30pm, 4yrs-5yrs will be at 5:45pm, 6yrs-8yrs will be at 6pm and if you your little one has a pet she or he can take them to the City Dog Park not to far from the VFW park.

The City Dog Park for a small fee will be holding a doggie costume contest at 5:30pm with a doggie egg hunt at 6:00pm. This will be lots of fun for your pet to get that evening walk but fun as well for your little ones.

Please give us you input on your past experiences for any of these events. When I am looking for some type of event to do in Katy I look to Katy Magazine. I have made Katy Magazine my number one event locator.

March 24, 2010 – Katy, Texas – I love spring. I love the comfortable weather and the flowers. But I especially love Easter.

I have such fond memories of Easters past. My family partook in so many of the Easter traditions: egg hunts, church on Sunday morning, confetti eggs, dying hard boiled eggs… the list goes on and on. Now that I have two children of my own, I feel giddy about the opportunity to pass these traditions down to them. And pass them down I will.

But my new favorite tradition started last year. The Waters Church at 2710 N. Mason Road (Suite #145) hosts an annual Easter Fest in the parking lot of the church. Our family went last year, and we were amazed at how much there was for our children to enjoy.

A lot of community outreach programs focus on Easter egg hunts this time of year, and we plan to be a part of many of those as well. But The Waters Easter Fest is more like a carnival than the traditional Easter egg hunt event. Last year, my oldest daughter got to have a pony ride, get her face painted, jump in bouncy houses, enjoy a petting zoo, and eat hot dogs for dinner at Easter Fest.Â

I’m looking forward to Easter Fest this upcoming Wednesday, March 31st from 6:30-8:30 pm. I’m sure many of the attractions from last year will be back, and this year I know my 3 year old daughter is really looking forward to the fire truck and a visit from Chuck E. Cheese.  Â

My family is always game for a free night of entertainment, and this year will be no exception.

We’ll be in the parking lot of The Waters Church from 6:30 until 8:30 this upcoming Wednesday night. I hope to see you there!

What other free or inexpensive Easter activities in the community do you and your family participate in each year? Post a comment below!

March 24, 2010 – Katy, Texas – My first child, Madeleine, was an eater. From the day she tasted rice cereal at 4 months old, that child ate just about anything we put on her plate. Or her soft-bite Gerber spoon, as the case may be. One of our favorite stories about Madeleine: As a two-year-old, she threw a tantrum at McDonald's because they didn't serve broccoli. The wide-eyed cashier couldn't believe what she was seeing. Now that she is eight, broccoli is still one of her favorite foods.Â

Bragging about that McDonald's meltdown, I was sure I’d done something right. My friends complained about their picky toddlers, while mine was eating everything from green beans to salad. I doled out the unsolicited advice at every opportunity.  I had the simple answer: all they had to do was to serve a variety of foods and not make any alternate meals.  Their problem would be solved, I assured them! Kids will eat whatever you put in front of them, as long as you don’t allow junk food, right?

Not necessarily. God put me in my place with my next two picky eaters. The only vegetable Ben (3) will eat? Ketchup. Yes, I know that ketchup is not a vegetable, but he treats it like a side dish. Rather than dipping food in it, he eats it from the spoon! This always triggers my gagt reflex, so we only give him a little with his meat.

I’ve tried everything. I’ve tried begging, bribing, threatening, punishing, and sticker charts. What I’ve learned from these fruitless and frustrating efforts is, what your child chews and swallows and keeps down is ultimately up to them!Â

I’ve stopped letting myself tie my mood to what my children do or don’t eat. I’ve surrendered in the meal-time battle, and am taking a much gentler approach these days. Our meals havbe an extra helping of joy, now.

I think the most important thing is to make meal time a happy time. We all come together at the dining room table, and share not just a meal, but ourselves. We take turns going around the table talking about our day, and sometimes answering creative questions. I make one healthy meal, and put a little of everything on their plates. I give them a cup of V-8 Splash instead of apple juice. I give them children's chewable vitamins, make chocolate milk with Carnation instant breakfast, and sneak veggies into our sauces.Â

My children are not required to finish everything on their plates, but are required to take one bite of each thing. Sometimes, they are surprised that they actually love a new food! Most of the time, they take one bite and make horrible faces… followed by chugging from the sippy cup. We make sure to give lots of attention and praise for each bite of a new food. My children eat up the positive attention… even if they don’t eat up the food every time.

But I have to say… I’m encouraged. After serving broccoli to Bella (4) at least once a week since she was a toddler, she finally took a second bite yesterday. She has tried broccoli many times, but this time she proudly announced: “Mommy, I like broccoli now! It’s not yucky anymore… it’s like a tree!”

Do you deal with finicky eaters? What are your tips and tricks? Post a comment below and share your ideas with me!

March 24, 2010 – Katy, TX – There has been a debate of whether to adopt a small dog or a big dog in our family. We have visited various shelter's out in Katy and have seen so many beautiful dogs that we wish we could adopt all of them. We have to put the pros and cons toward adopting a big or small pet. We had visited a nearby park and had seen so many different sizes of dogs. We were amazed that some doggies identify their owners. We did noticed that the majority of the men like bigger dogs and the ladies like smaller dogs. Why is that I wonder? We also have to ask ourselves what about vet visits? Routine maintenance? Food? There is so many questions involved in adopting a bigger dog to a smaller dog. We also have seen smaller dogs being carried in retail stores in their dog carriers some even fit in our purse. I have even seen dog strollers in stores with dogs in them. If we were to have a bigger dog there would be no dog carrier or dog stroller in the store this would be impossible because of the size of the dog. I have also seen vet bills, routine maintenance and food for smaller dogs cheaper than for bigger dogs. Having a bigger dog protects your home of intruders they can hear those loud barks that tend to put people on alert. Smaller dogs don't do that barking that tends to intimidate intruders instead they find it amusing. What about a bed or a kennel for the dog? Will our dog be comfortable in our home if it is big or small? I would guess it would depend on the size

of the home as well as a backyard for the dog. There is one important thing that we do know is that whatever size we choose it will be part of our family for a long time.

So my fellow Katy readers to adopt a small dog or adopt a big dog that is the question?

March 23, 2010 – Katy, Texas – Before we were married, my husband and I heard the same bit of advice over and over: “Don’t ever stop dating. Don’t ever feel guilty for spending time and money on dates. Be purposeful about dating each other.”Â

We’ve taken that advice to heart. Who doesn’t love to be instructed to do something fun like dating? Before we had children, we picked one night out of every week (it was Sundays for us) and went somewhere together. Once our children were born, date night became a once-a-month thing.  Dating monthly is less often than we were challenged to, but nevertheless, it is one of my favorite family traditions.Â

If I’m honest, I’ll admit that not every date is romantic-movie spectacular. Sometimes we’re so worn out that a movie is all we care to do. And after a long week with two young children, we might not be feeling creative so we’ll eat out and head back home to catch up on our DVR’ed shows.Â

But some months are different. Sometimes we’re really good at dating. Once in a while, we’ll have a surprise date: one of us will plan the entire night, from start to finish, and leave the other guessing. The fun is in the suspense. I love listening to my husband out loud about where he thinks we might be headed as I pull our car out onto the Grand Parkway.Â

This month we’re trying something new: the date box. I’ve collected a whole slew of ideas for inexpensive dates, and once the children are dropped off with their favorite babysitters (my parents), we’ll draw an option out of the box.  Whatever we pull out of the box will be our date plans for the night.

Some ideas I’ve included in our mystery date box include:

*Bike ride and picnic around our favorite pond

*Head to the grocery store and choose ingredients for fondue

*Window shop at La Centerra

*A “progressive” dinner: appetizers, main dish, and dessert each at a different local restaurant

*An ice cream sundae challenge: each of us build our partner’s favorite ice cream sundae and then reveal them to each other. No matter who gets the sundae favorites right, we both win!

*Rock wall climb at Katy Mills Mall

*Bowl

*Movie â€" my pick

*Movie â€" his pick

*Drive out towards the country and star gaze; look for small diners to eat at along the way

*Go geocaching

*Get in the car and let the flip of a coin decide which direction to head. See where it takes us.

*Coffee and a good magazine or book

*Paint a piece of pottery together

*Random deeds of Kindness night: Make cookies together, wrap them up on several small plates, and then drive around sharing them with friends and neighbors.

The most important part about dating my husband is the time spent together. When I have nothing else pressing on my mind but being with him, I’m able to refocus and spend time falling for him all over again. On the date nights when I’m too tired to think straight, I’m still able to appreciate the silence alongside my favorite man. And when we have the energy to be really good at dating â€" on those months when we’re trying something new or surprising each other â€" the thrill of being different or creative together makes it even sweeter.

I’m always looking for new ideas for our date nights! How do you make your date nights special? What great ideas have you found?

March 23, 2010 – Katy, Texas – Sign Up Features- Many cell phones and cell phone providers offer features such as texting,video, and camera options. The privacy of the child is always at risk when they are allowed certain freedoms they don’t exactly know how to manage. As a parent, instead of offering your child the unlimited cell phone plan, request the text and call only plan or call only plan. The child’s privacy is protected to a greater degree and you’ll be saving more on a monthly basis.

Check The Cell Phone Daily– Although as parents you may feel the need to warrant a certain leniency towards your children, when it comes to a child’s public protection sometimes what seems like a “breach in privacy” is nothing but a parent being a parent. Checking the child’s cell phone for suspicious texts or videos or pictures at times can be a viable option when it comes to evaluating whether or not the child is responsible with something you as a parent had purchased.

Helping With The Purchasing Of Mobile Phones– Most children after a certain age will independently choose to buy products. The parent should always be with the child in the purchasing of any product that seems controversial. The child most likely is not business savvy and will need assistance in determining what features, rates and plans are economically and personally reasonable.

Prepaid Phones- Many retail stores sell prepaid mobile phones that feature text and call only options. These phones are inexpensive and are easy enough for teens to buy ($50-$70 per phone) without parental concern for their child’s well being.

Although this focuses on children transitioning into the teenage years, these tips can be used to help any parent with a child of any age. When it comes to privacy and protection, as a parent you are in control not vice versa.Â

Do you have any tips on managing your child's cell phone? Please comment below.

With the current state of the economy, we’ve been looking for ways to pull in extra money and cut our budget. I’ve been working as a photographer on the weekends to help make ends meet, but it has been at the cost of time together as a family. And the house? Oh, boy… please don’t come over without giving me at least 6 hours notice!

Katy ISD offers half-day preschool for certain children. Their eligibility can be based on having English as a second language, an active military parent, or federal income guidelines. We were a little disappointed to find out that we make just $30 per paycheck too much to qualify!

My first thought was to take on more photography work to pay for preschool. We figured out how many sessions I would need to book each weekend to cover the cost. I was one of the crazy moms standing in line way too early in the morning on registration day with a baby and two toddlers in tow, just to make sure we secured our spot! I paid the registration fees and filled out the paperwork for Bella (4) and Ben (3) to start in the Fall.Â

However, as the weeks have gone by, we are reevaluating our decision. After all, $700/month for preschool would mean quite a few photo sessions! If I have them in school during the week and am working every evening and weekend… when will I get to be their mother?

One tearful family meeting later, we’ve made a decision… next year, we’re doing preschool at home! I feel a tremendous burden off of my shoulders. To prepare our children for the wonderful Katy ISD school system, we’re planning a daily schedule of learning activities. One of my majors at NSU was Early Childhood Education, and with two siblings so close in age, this could be lots of fun.

Rather than being disappointed at my inability to pay for preschool tuition, I find myself getting more and more excited to enjoy another year at home with my daughter before she spends the rest of her childhood in the school system all day. I sat with my son yesterday morning, playing Play-Dough for over an hour. He was laughing with joy, while we squished and rolled and named colors and shapes. We love to color and paint, too! I have flashcards to play with, and shape sorters. We have a little play area in the backyard to exercise those large muscle groups.Â

Katy offers a lot to preschool-aged children, and I plan to take advantage of it! The library system in Katy has many storytimes for different age groups to choose from. What a great way to let my children practice sitting and listening to a teacher for short periods of time. Local playgrounds and our church nursery will provide opportunities to interact with other children.

As I gear up for Preschool At Home, I would love to hear your ideas. What are some other things we can do at home? What else does Katy have to offer parents of preschoolers on a budget?

March 22, 2010 –Katy, TX — Rays of sunlight gracefully shimmered through the kitchen window as our family sat eating our breakfast. It was Spring Break and we were all excited for the week that lay ahead. How were we going to spend our time?  What did we want to do first? I listened as each child shared ideas for the coming days.

As we cleared the breakfast dishes, we decided to first start with a family bike ride through the beautiful nature preserve adjacent to our subdivision. Since the winter had been unusually cold, it had been some time since we had ventured on a bike excursion. Racing to the garage, we commenced untangling handle bars and bike pedals in order to give each bike a quick tune-up. As we had suspected, several bikes needed air in the tires and all of the bikes needed a good washing.

My two youngest boys offered their brawn as they gleefully “fixed” the bikes with the tire pump.  I located some old rags and a bucket and we washed the winter dust from the metal frames. The children chattered happily as they proudly prepped their bikes for our family bike ride.Â

By the time we had fully prepared for our adventure, it was close to lunch time. I hurriedly ran into the kitchen to pack a lunch to take with us so that our empty stomachs wouldn’t rush us. Lunch prepared, tires pumped, water bottles affixed, and helmets on, we were ready to set off.

I led the pack as we mounted our bikes and started on our journey. We rounded the bend in our street and started on the bike trail. I inhaled the clean air and smiled as I glanced back at my children. Flocks of birds flew overhead and we listened to their melodious strains. I peered at the majestic oak trees that served as a canopy over the road and was overwhelmed by the calm of the afternoon. Critters dashed from tree to tree, and cautiously watched as our family passed. A gentle breeze swept through the trees and my hair danced in the wind as we raced onward.

We soon found the perfect spot for our picnic. We propped our bicycles up against some trees and gathered together to talk and share lunch. Spreading a blanket on the ground, we divided the sandwiches, chips, grapes, cookies and drinks. We had all worked up an appetite, so the food seemed to taste particularly good. The children were happy, there wasn’t a hint of contention, and we were truly enjoying our time together.Â

That evening, several of my children remarked that it had been one of the best days they had ever had. I thought about the money we had spent on eating out, family vacations and fun toys. I was amazed that our casual day of biking had been one of their favorite activities. I suppose some the simplest family outings prove to be the most meaningful! What are some of your family's favorite activities?   Post a comment below.

Record numbers and attendance at this year's Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Another successful rodeo season has come to an end, shattering attendance records and breaking several junior market auction records along the way, all while providing great entertainment at a value price, showcasing Texas agriculture, and promoting Western heritage.. Following are highlights from the 2010 Show.

Fun Rodeo Stats

Attendance highlights

For complete results and highlights, visit the Show’s Web site at www.rodeohouston.com

Did you have a great time at this year's rodeo? Share the highlights of your visit by posting a comment below.

Ideas for Making Yourself an Invaluable Employee

KATY WORKLIFE â€"Katy, Texas– March 22, 2010– In today’s competitive job market, new employees are always looking for ways to stand out and get ahead in the workplace.   Follow these tips and you will make yourself invaluable in the workplace.

© Katy Magazine 2010

If you have more ideas or feedback about this story, let us know by posting your comment below.

March 22, 2010 –Katy, TX –Being pregnant with my second child was considerably less blissful than my being pregnant the first time around. Sure, I was sick more often the second time around (and those “slight” pains associated with Braxton Hicks were more intense), but the thing that really plagued me, the unavoidable reality that haunted my thoughts at night, was the idea that I’d somehow have to find a way to split my love and loyalties between two children.

Besides my own doubts, I’d heard from friends that welcoming a second child into the world is significantly more challenging than the first. The exhaustion and post-partum hormones are still in place, but added to that is the ongoing needs of your first. I’m not one to take a challenge lying down, so I did some poking around for ideas on easing the transition from one child to two.

These ideas worked well for our family:

What about you? Did you find any hints especially helpful when welcoming your second child into the world? Did the age of the child have an impact on how you handled the new baby? Post your comment below!

March 19, 2010 –Katy, TX –In the news the past six months, hints that the doors to public libraries throughout our great nation will be closed due to budgetary shortfalls have sent alarm bells among concerned citizens. The entire state of Florida and the great city of Philadelphia, ironically where the Declaration of Independence was signed, have met with difficult choices when faced with skyrocketing budget demands. Thankfully, our own libraries are not in the same predicament and are indeed well stocked and maintain convenient hours of operation.

In the Katy area, citizens have a multitude of public libraries to choose from. Harris County Public Library boasts three convenient branches to residents of Katy: Katherine Tyra, Katy and Maud Marks. Fort Bend County Library is proud to offer residents of Katy services through their Cinco Ranch Library.

All libraries in our community host a wealth of services for young and old alike. For the youth, parents can enjoy toddler or preschool story time, or bring their school aged children to an after school art class. Santa has even been known to show up for some milk and cookies with the kids around the holidays. For the older participant, book clubs for teens and adults are held monthly. ESL, tax help, computer, and interest clubs such as knitting and money management even meet at our libraries. Once a month, our libraries also host a used book sale. Visitors can find a plethora of titles for a portion of the regular price, and the profits from the sale go directly back into the libraries. The libraries are always a busy place during the summer months when special programs are put on once a week for the school aged set. And don’t forget about all of the materials visitors can borrow from the library! Where else can you find books, magazines, movies, audio tapes, and free computer use all for the price of a (free) library card?

In a time when our country is facing difficult financial choices, remember that our public libraries are still a free resource. Stop by a local branch today and check it out! Who knows? You might discover a new hobby or find a book you can’t put down!

*Have you stopped into a public library branch recently? What were you looking for? How often do you visit?

March 22, 2010 –Katy, TX –My boys had been playing hard outside all spring break soaking up the gorgeous weather, and so when they asked if I could take them to the local skating rink yesterday I was surprised. “Don’t you want to enjoy this amazing seventy degree weather before it starts to get too hot outside?” I asked them. But they persisted, and so we loaded up and started off, stopping to load up some friends in the back. As we drove, I rolled the windows down and popped open the sunroof; determined to soak up the short-lived spring weather as much as possible. I was still grumbling to myself when we entered the building, thinking how we were wasting the day inside.

As soon as we stepped foot into the skating rink, though, I was immediately transported back in time. It’s funny how some things simply never change. Flooding my senses was the overpowering smell of a locker room-or was that the rented roller skates? Be that as it may, I paid our entrance fee and the boys began to slip on their skates to the sounds of Beyonce’ booming in our ears.

This was not our first foray to the local rink before. We’ve visited on rainy summer afternoons and for numerous birthday parties throughout the years. But I was always either skating with the boys to encourage them to let go of the wall, or walking our youngest son around the rink while he fearfully held onto me for dear life. This was the first time ever that I wasn’t doing either! My boys had matured enough to whiz around the rink without any encouragement or aid from me. Sitting down at one of the many tables lined up, I settled down with a book, peeking over it every so often to cheer them on.

I remember fondly the many hours I spent at the local skating rink as a young girl. The dimmed lights, the looming disco ball in the center of the rink casting glittery shadows on the skaters below, and the pounding music are all woven into my memory forever. Wearing my favorite blue velour bellbottom pants with the word “BOOGIE” emblazoned in rhinestones on the back pocket made me feel like a roller skating goddess. As I sat and watched my boys glide effortlessly around and around, it occurred to me how some things in life really never change.

True, the music my boys were grooving to was not The Bee Gees or Diana Summer of my youth. They were instead mouthing the words to The Black Eyed Peas and groaning when Justin Bieber’s voice was piped in. But the pure joy on their sweaty faces, the preteen girls obsessed with their appearance looking to each other for reassurance, and the smell of the greasy food offered up made me smile in recognition. I remember this. And I hope my boys will, too. This was not a day wasted inside. This was a day for making memories.

March 19, 2010 –Katy, TX –I’m a big fan of having my kids’ birthday parties somewhere other than our home. After a particularly messy 8th birthday party at home complete with chocolate cake smashed into the carpet, I made a decision that birthday parties are best away from home.  The clean up is so much easier and the packages they offer are so convenient for moms and dads. Some of the most fun and memorable parties my kids have had were…

Times Square Entertainment – There are so many things kids can do and the party hosts are awesome. They follow you around and take care of every detail. This is best for kids age 8 through teens. Bowling, games, laser tag and pizza is fun for boys and girls.

Mason Road Skating – There is nothing like their money machine! What kid doesn't want to stand in a money machine and catch flying dollar bills. A lifetime memory!

Laser Quest – Tweens and teens really like this place. It's dark and kind of mysterious and they have a few party rooms to choose from. It's on Westheimer, but not too far down, just past West Oaks Mall.

Pump it Up – I’ve had younger kids parties there and one for my 10 year old Both were a big hit. Jumping around on large inflatables is a blast for all ages, even for the adults!

Do you know a great Katy party place? Post your comment here!

Spring Break ‘Staycation’ Means Bonding Time for Katy Families

Over the years, my boys have been the proud and loving owners of two gerbils and a hamster (thankfully at different times). While the hamster was relatively placid and generally roamed around his cage placidly, we delighted in watching the antics of the gerbils for hours. It seemed that they were never still. If they weren’t climbing up on the various apparatus we purchased for them, they could be found running on the little wheel that went around and around but never went anywhere. We would laugh at them and think them silly for being perpetually “on the wheel.”

Since we have been on Spring Break, I feel as though I, too, have been “on the wheel” and have thankfully hopped off of it. It might be for just a brief week, but this week has proven to be a spirit renewer in ways I never envisioned. We have had a glorious “staycation.” Although we have not travelled anywhere exotic, the time off has proven to be priceless. My boys have enjoyed the quiet days spent playing outside in the temperate weather, going to various parks, fishing with friends, roller skating and riding their bikes, catching a movie, staying up later at night and sleeping in during the day, and taking a trip to the local library. We even all crammed into our car around bedtime and went for ice cream-the boys clad in their pajamas. Personally, I have read more books and have spent leisurely time mulling over writing and thinking than I ever have during the school week. We would never have been able to enjoy all of our relaxing, family bonding time during the hustle and bustle of the school week. Between the rigorous schedule of school and all the after school activities my boys participate in, finding time to “just chill” can be difficult. But hopping off the wheel has been crucial for us as a family.

What have been your experiences with Spring Break? Are you a working parent? If so, do you find it challenging to take time off to be with your child(ren)? What activities or places have you enjoyed together during this time off?

I used to work out all the time, eat pretty healthy and therefore, fit nicely into my size 4 clothes. Then I had kids. Now-a-days you are lucky if you see me in a short sleeve shirt because I’m so embarrassed of my fat, jiggly arms! I loved our cold winter for the sheer reason that I could stay covered up all day long! What in the world is the deal with me?!

I am one of those women, the ones that have kids and they gain a ton of weight, their hair is never the same and can never get rid of that ugly pooch at the bottom of my stomach that looks like something you should knead, punch and roll out. And then there are the “others”. I hate these women…ok not really, just despise the fact that their bodies don’t change after giving birth AT ALL! And with such little effort on their part!!  I had a friend that was back into her size 2 jeans 4 weeks after giving birth to her first son, and after each birth of her 3 kids! And she didn’t diet or exercise! WHAT?! How is that possible? I used to kill myself in the gym after each of my son’s births, I did the Atkins diet, the Slimfast Diet, the Starvation Soup Diet, the Medifast Diet (oh! I starved on that one!) and oh so many more. Each one was too hard to stay on, got bored with it, or didn’t see much progress so I quit. I’m sure my love of wine and Italian food had NOTHING to do with my lack of progress.

Anyone out there found something that really works? That won’t require me to count points, weigh food, take a pill that sends me into cardiac arrest, or eat boxed lasagna that has so many preservatives in it that its shelf life extends into my 4 year old’s golden years?! Post your comments below.

From songwriting to performance to production, AJ has been in and around the music industry for over 15 years. From 1994 to1996, he was one of the audio techs for the band “Moriah” (later morphed into “Life Of Riley”) where he also performed as a featured vocalist during their concerts. As the Worship Pastor of Grace Fellowship UMC for the past 13 years (1996 to present), he has performed with and provided sound support for countless bands, worship teams, and solo artists. AJ has overseen the production of 5 Grace Fellowship CD Projects and has co-written songs with the likes of Jimmy Needham, Wayne Kerr, and Cassidy Campbell (“Life Of Riley”). In addition, he has helped to encourage and shape numerous vocalists and instrumentalists over the years as a result of his interaction with adult, youth, and children’s worship teams and ensembles. All of this experience has fostered within AJ a passion for musical excellence, band and artist development, and for helping musical groups and performers who might otherwise be “overlooked” get the opportunity to reach their full potential in the industry. “I come in contact with musicians that have what it takes to be the next ‘Chris Tomlin’ or ‘Natalie Grant’ all of the time, and I would love to help those artists realize their greatest aspirations!” See AJ Bass at Kosmos Coffee located at 22765 Westheimer Parkway (Peek Entrance Across from YMCA). The performance will be Friday, March 26 at 7 PM.

Houston SPCA Cat Adoption Specials –Not Just for the Irish!

The luck of the Irish shines down on the frisky felines of the Houston SPCA as we welcome St. Patrick’s Day and the beginning of Spring. During the weekend of March 19th through the 21st, all cats are 2 fur 1!!! In addition, the Houston SPCA Leprechauns have made the executive decision that all cats with green eyes that are over the age of six months or have a green Shamrock on their kennel will be half off the normal adoption fee. This means every approved adopter can take home at least two lucky animals for the price of one or just one for half price. Either way, it all adds up to giving a homeless animal a second chance at life.

With a little help from the dedicated staff at the Houston SPCA all of our very special felines will receive the following as a part of their adoption fee:

• A health evaluation; initial vaccinations; rabies vaccinations for felines three months and older

• Spay / neuter surgery

• Deworming; feline leukemia testing

• Microchipping with free lifetime registration; and of course a friend for life!

• As an added bonus, VCA Animal Hospitals will provide a complimentary overall wellness examination (within five days after adoption) and complimentary 14-day follow-up care for certain conditions to give your pet the very best in medical care.

• One free bag of cat food courtesy of Hill’s Science Diet.

Each and every feline at the Houston SPCA has a sparkling personality as bright as the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Come by the Houston SPCA, become an approved adopter and take home your furever friend today! The Houston SPCA Adoption Lobby is open Monday through Friday from 11am to 7pm and 10a to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday.

For more information, call 713.869.7722Â ext. 138.

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Katy Seniors Gear Up for this Special NightFor four years students wait anxiously for the wonder that is their senior prom. The first school to experience this memorable event: Mayde Creek. They plan to revel in the magic on April 17, 2010 from 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Next is Katy, scheduled for April 24, 2010 from 8 p.m. – 12 p.m. at Brisco Hall. Their theme is an ode to the late Michael Jackson, Remember the Times, with the colors red and black.

The following day holds Seven Lake’s prom, April 25, 2010 from 8 p.m. â€" 12 p.m. They will dance the night away at the Intercontinental Hotel.

On May 1, 2010, Taylor will enjoy the splendor at the Houston Club from 8 p.m. â€" 11 p.m.

Then Morton Ranch High School’s prom will take place at the Omni Hotel on May 8, 2010 from 7 p.m. â€" 12 p.m. The class song is Michael Jackson’s “I’ll Be There” and the theme encompassing the dance is Fairyland, with emphasis on the colors pink, white, and silver.

Cinco Ranch’s theme is Take My Breath Away, with the colors black, white, and aqua. They will be holding the dance at Omni River Way on May 15, 2010 from 8 p.m. – 11 p.m. Olivia Davis, a senior student at Cinco, says “I’m so excited to buy a prom dress! I feel like a Barbie.”

© Katy Magazine 2010, photo and story

Do you have a funny prom story? Post it in the comments below.

Schedule of Events for Tuesday

It’s going to be another fun-filled day at RodeoHouston. Here’s what’s coming up for tomorrow. Don’t miss Keith Urban in concert immediately following the BP Super Sereis V â€" Championship Round.

Here is a schedule of events for March 16

For more information, visit http://www.hlsr.com.

Hey Katyites! Did you have fun at the rodeo?  Send us your story and we’ll post it here! Email [email protected]

How can you get your resume to outshine everyone else's and make it to the top of the potential employer's pile? Try these tips for finding a professional level job in Katy or West Houston.

Individualize. Never email blast the same resume to several employers at once in the same email. Chances are they’re just going to hit the delete button.

Customize. Send your resume to each job personally and customize the objective line, subject line of the email, and introductory email/letter to fit the job you’re applying for. It may take five minutes of your time, but in the end, employers will be more likely to consider you.

Use buzzwords. Use power keywords in your resume that match the items in the job description. (But only if you have experience in these areas.)

Be email savvy. Create an email account with your name through Gmail or Yahoo and check it frequently. Never send your resume from an email address such as [email protected] or [email protected]. Sorry, but aol and hotmail accounts are not very impressive to employers.

Use proper grammar in all communications – even the body of the email. You would be surprised how many young applicants write in text type or slang. Employers want you to represent their company well.

Choose a great subject line. Sending a resume without one shows a lack of attention to detail and makes it hard for the employers to notice it at all. The best subject line has the title of the position and your name. Customer Service Manager Applicant Alice Brown.

Follow up. It's okay to send a follow up email to check on the status of the position or see if your resume was received. It shows enthusiasm for the job and most employers like that. Only do this if you did not get response.

© Katy Magazine 2010

Do you have a resume tip to share? Post your comment below or email [email protected]

Nursery planning typically kicks into gear once you know if you are having a boy or a girl. Then, you can choose a fun theme that ties in all elements of the room and sets the stage for a great beginning. Katy mom, Jessica Huntoon had an important consideration in mind when deciding on a nursery theme for her first daughter, Hanna. “I wanted a theme that could grow with her,” explains Huntoon. Her plan was successful. Hanna is now in kindergarten and her nursery theme of butterflies and dragonflies is still prevalent in her new big girl room. Really, the nursery theme is for the parents and not the baby. By picking something that they can grow with, the theme will hopefully be loved by the baby, too, and become something they enjoy. “Now Hanna loves butterflies and just pretty bugs,” Huntoon says.

Unique Rooms to Fit Each Baby

You don’t always have to think outside the box again for your second child. Huntoon loved the theme of Hanna’s room, so she reused the idea for her second daughter Lyla, now two and a half. With a few changes, Huntoon transformed the room into a unique space. Lyla’s nursery includes flowers in the theme and is more purple and green than Hanna’s, which had more pink in the color scheme.

Lisa and Graham Tidbury of Katy chose the theme of the Australian outback for their 4-month-old son Grayson’s nursery. Though the idea may seem unique to most, it was the first the couple had, since Graham’s parents live in Australia and are far from their grandson. “We wanted to honor his grandparents that live abroad,” Lisa explains. Even though it was challenging for them to find accessories to complement their nursery’s creative them, they enjoyed every minute of it. When the usual baby stores were lacking cute baby kangaroos and koala bears, Lisa found a friend in Ebay, which proved that most any theme can be achieved.

The Tidbury’s also personalized their son’s nursery by refurbishing Graham’s old dresser. The dresser had once been in Graham’s nursery and it had been remodeled and used throughout his life. Once they learned that they were having a son, the dresser was sanded and painted to coordinate with the room. This brought a very personal touch to the nursery and also proved to be a great way to save some money. Lisa made sure to include her family’s old rocking chair in the nursery, too. This was the chair that her mother had used to rock her to sleep and she loved the sentimental touch.

Convertible cribs are one popular trend that can take your child into their toddler years and beyond. These are great, sturdy cribs that can also convert into a child’s bed when you buy the extended package for it. This way, the crib can serve your baby longer and grow with them when they outgrow the crib. It was important to Huntoon to get this type of crib, so that it would last longer for her girls. Since they tend be sturdier and heavier, they are also a great option for people with large dogs who fear they could frequently peek in on the baby.

Brande Jones of Katy turned to the talent of a family member for the color inspiration of her son, Chapman’s circus-themed nursery. Jones’ husband had recently lost his aunt, a talented painter to cancer. One of her paintings was of the classic childhood Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls. Jones hung the painting in the nursery, using its bright red and primary colors in the nursery theme. “I loved how it turned out and was happy to see a family painting as the center piece,” she says. She was also lucky to have a lot of help decorating from her mother, who is a professional decorator and who was all too willing to help prepare a masterpiece for her grandson. Lisa Tidbury encourages parents designing a space for their cutie to have fun with the project. “Don’t stress out too much,” she says. “Make it an enjoyable time.” Make your nursery a place where you love to be with your baby and then it will be the perfect nursery for you.

© Katy Magazine 2010

Adapted from Katy Magazine’s article written by Natalie Cook Clark in Katy Magazine’s Spring Issue 2010

Do you have a cute idea for a baby room theme? Add your comment and post it here.

Last April, 13,000 cyclists came together to ride 182 miles from Houston to Austin in the BP MS 150 to raise over $17 million for those living with MS, and they will do it all over again this year on April 17. Many riders are from the Katy area including our own Katy Area Economic Development President, Lance LaCour, who is in training for the arduous journey.

Committed Katy Cyclists

Currently, more than 400,000 Americans are living with MS, according to Gena Hyde of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. It is a debilitating disease that affects each person uniquely. “There is no known cause, and so there is yet to be a known cure,” Hyde explains. Perhaps this is why Katy cyclists commit year after year to ride the 182 miles from Houston to Austin and to raise $400 or more for the National MS Society.

Local Residents Take a Ride for MS

Katy resident Dr. Scott Balin decided to take up the challenge seven years ago while riding with a friend whose sister has MS. He is riding for family friend, Samantha Gluckman, who lives in Israel. As a former cyclist herself, she loves to ride, but can no longer do so due to the affect of MS on her body. Her family brought over a bandana with her name embroidered on it for Balin to wear. He explains, “Just knowing that I can ride for her is an honor for me, and truly helps me keep going by knowing her winning spirit will be with me the entire ride to that sweet end in Austin.”

Becky Ricketts, another Katy cyclist, is also familiar with the finish line in Austin. She has ridden in a Bike MS four times, including twice in Houston and twice in Louisiana. Every year, there are 100 Bike MS rides across the country to raise money. Each bike ride varies in the course and the actual mileage ridden. Ricketts was enticed by the challenge of the ride. “I had a cousin that died of MS in her 20’s, and so it is very special to my family,” she shares. Becky loves the hills and the camaraderie of the ride, but confesses that it can be trying at times. “The hardest part of the ride is sleeping with 200 of your closest friends,” she says. “It’s cold at night, the lights go out early, and the snores begin.” Riders usually camp on Saturday night at the fairgrounds in La Grange. They arise early the next morning to finish up the second day of their ride.

Motivated to Bike MS

The Katy community has many ways to support you. Bike Barn’s Andy Gonzalez urges, “Get out and ride as a group as early as you can. The more you do it, the more you get used to it and the safer you end up being.” Bike Barn leads rides for riders of varying levels every Saturday and Sunday at 8 a.m. starting from the store.

There are many ways to be involved in the BP MS 150, whether that is riding the 182 miles yourself, or donating to and supporting another rider. Whatever the case may be, all over the country, Bike MS is raising millions of dollars to find a cure for MS. Balin says of his ride, “I only pray that every mile I ride brings us that much closer to finding a cure for multiple sclerosis.” Hopefully, that prayer will be echoed in April, when 13,000 riders hit the road from Houston to Austin to change the futures of those living with MS.

© Katy Magazine 2010

Adapted from Kelly Isenberger's story in Katy Magazine's Spring Issue 2010

With horses and goats walking around, blacksmiths working in their shops, and children making corn husk dolls, Katy ISD’s Folk Life Festival has brought Texas’ pioneer history to life for the past 25 years. Katy ISD’s Outdoor Learning Center will once again transform itself into scenes of Texas in the 1800’s on April 10 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a slew of pioneer activities planned. Kids can observe honey bee keeping, blacksmith demonstrations, horseshoeing, and a soldier reenactment, where en yell out, “Fire in the hole,” as gunshots resound.

Folk Life Festival Event

The festival will be held on Saturday, April 10 from 9 a.m. â€" 5 p.m. at The Outdoor Learning Center. The OLC is located west of the Katy ISD Administrative Building at 6301 S. Stadium Lane The cost is $1 per person.

Everyone from kids and adults to volunteers is invited to join in the festivities. Judy Blanchard says, “I have 200 pigeons, which I use military materials to train. The kids can pet them and even release them if the weather is good.” Smoke, animals, the smell of food cooking, music, and costumed people will fill the atmosphere, bringing back memories for some and creating new ones for others.

Hands-on Activities

Includes roping, tin punching, weaving and quilting, dulcimer lessons, gourd painting, clay pottery, making corn husk dolls and rag dolls, calligraphy, and corn husking, shelling, and grinding

Festival Origins

The Outdoor Learning Center stands as 35 acres of land kept in its natural state for the sake of teaching young students lessons in science and social studies, usually during school field trips. In 1985, Kenneth D. Welch decided to extend the lessons to do something special for the Texas Centennial, by creating an entire day reserved for pioneer experiences brought to the modern world, a moment in time captured in one place. Ray Wolman now runs the center and the festival, which has a low entrance fee of $1 per person. In the beginning, Wolman and Welch threw everything together themselves, a somewhat overwhelming feat. Over time, the festival has turned into a fascinating learning experience, where people offer constructive criticism and help it to grow and improve each year.

Adapted from Krista Kessler's story in Katy Magazine Spring Issue 2010

Do you know a fun event coming up in Katy? Post your comment here or email it to [email protected]

Besides being a great place to live, the Katy Area is also a wonderful place to work. The community offers employers a growing, energized, and world class talent and workforce base with high educational attainment. A majority of existing employers rate the Katy Area workforce as available, high quality, productive, and available at a reasonable cost.

Katy Workforce Stats

Suburban Atmosphere

The Katy Area, a rapid population growth center located west of Houston, enjoys the benefits of being part of the Houston Metro area. Katy offers a quality suburban atmosphere, "small town" lifestyle, and an energetic talentbase for quality companies. Other benefits include the following:

Source: Katy Area Economic Development Council

TOP EMPLOYERS

Katy is thriving and offers many employment opportunities. The Katy Area Chamber of Commerce and Katy Area Economic Development Council list the following businesses as top academic, retail, medical and energy industries and employers in Katy and the surrounding areas.

Katy Independent School District

BP America

Conoco/Phillips

CHRISTUS St. Catherine Hospital

Wood Group/Mustang Engineering

Katy Mills

Shell Oil

Academy Distribution Center

Igloo Products

HEB

Exxon/Mobil Chemical

Global Santa Fe

Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital

WalMart Super Center, Fry Rd.

WalMart Super Center, Market Place Dr.

Diamond Offshore Drilling

Houston Community College

Copyright Katy Magazine 2009. Adapted from Katy Life, Katy Magazine's Newcomer & Relocation Guide

From outstanding public schools to affordable housing, from a family-friendly environment to a thriving economy, it's easy to see why Katy, Texas was named the #2 Boomtown by Business Week

With an excellent school system, a thriving economy, and an abundance of sports teams, recreational venues, and family friendly activities, it’s not hard to see why Katy is one of the fastest growing communities in the greater Houston area. Although there are hundreds of reasons why Katy is a wonderful place to live, here are out top ten.

1. Exceptional Schools

Katy Independent School District (Katy ISD) is considered one of the best school districts in the greater Houston area. Katy ISD currently has 52 schools with aggressive expansion plans to meet the growing population of students, which is currently more than 55,000. All of Katy schools offer outstanding facilities and equipment for teachers and students alike, including a highly advanced technology program that includes computers in each classroom and stationary and wireless labs in every school. Students in grades K-12 are exposed to a wide variety of extracurricular activities, from sports to drama and music.

The district operates the Kenneth D. Welch Outdoor Learning Center, 35 acres of land kept in its natural state. Students at all grade levels are able to participate in hands-on science and social studies activities, including living history and science classrooms, a museum, and a barn with a blacksmith shop. Domestic fowl and animals, nature trails, and a pond stocked with fish are just a few examples of how Katy ISD is using its natural resources and surroundings to provide a quality educational experience for its students.

2. A Thriving Economy

While many cities around the country are struggling with today’s economy, Katy is fortunate enough to have world-class business leaders such as BP America, Conoco Phillips, Igloo, Mustang Engineering, and Shell Oil North America headquartered in the area. There’s also a high level of employee productivity. While the energy services sector boasts some of the biggest names in the industry, it’s important not to forget about the other strong economic sectors, including wholesale trade, plastics and advanced materials, service, and retail. According to the Katy Area Economic Development Council, in 2008 over two million people were employed within a 30 mile radius of Katy with an average unemployment rate of only 4%. Proximity to Houston and the Energy Corridor is positioning the Katy area to rapidly develop into one of the region’s premier business growth centers.

3. Outstanding Neighborhoods

From large, open floor plans to small efficiency apartments, there’s definitely a home to fit your lifestyle. Patio homes are available, as are master-planned estate homes in gated communities. Katy has a great mix of older neighborhoods with houses built in the 1980s, while other neighborhoods are still under development. Many newer subdivisions offer numerous amenities including community pools, tennis courts, parks, hike and bike trails, and workout facilities. Pricing begins below the $100,000s and can go well above $1 million in the more exclusive communities. Whether moderately priced or a grand estate â€" you will find a home to love in Katy.

4. Fun and Flavorful Dining

No matter what your taste, you can find food that will please your palate in Katy. New restaurants are popping up all over, yet there are restaurants that the locals have been enjoying for years. On-the-go families can enjoy the convenience of fast-food, but don’t forget the ethnic restaurants and old-fashioned Texas barbecue joints. Mid-level family restaurants offer a variety of delicious cuisine, while more upscale venues make special evenings out even more enjoyable. Check out our dining guide and katymagazine.com for more information on tasty Katy cuisine.

5. Shop ‘Til You Drop

From department stores to boutiques, you can find it in Katy. Katy Mills Mall showcases popular brands in retail and outlet shopping, while LaCenterra and the nearby Villagio feature a more upscale shopping experience. The Old Katy area is home to many smaller shops (many off the beaten path) that offer more personalized options.

Another advantage that Katyites enjoy is the close proximity to malls and outlets in Cy-Fair, Houston, and Sugar Land areas. The Houston Galleria offers a shopping adventure in an upscale, three-story complex. Houston Premium Outlets, the Conroe Outlet, and the VF Outlet in Hempstead all offer great discounts. Trader’s Village off of Eldridge is an adventure in flea markets, festivals and great bargains. And First Colony Mall in Sugar Land offers over 160 wonderful stores and eateries.

6. Parks and Leisure

Because we have typically mild weather during the winter, there are even more opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. While most subdivisions have their own playgrounds, there are numerous public parks in Katy. Katy is known for its family-friendly recreation such as hiking, biking, golf, and nature walks. Families can also enjoy fishing, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Dog owners will love the Katy Bark Park with acres of green grass, a wading pool, and doggie showers. Youth and adult sports leagues are available year round. Some of the most popular are soccer, football, baseball, tennis and swimming, among several others.

7. A Sense of Security

Because Katy is a tri-county area, dipping into Harris, Waller, and Fort Bend Counties, there’s never a need to worry about safety. Katy has its own police force and several fire stations with emergency medical services strategically placed throughout the area. Constables patrol most neighborhoods, and Sheriff’s Deputies from all counties are quick to respond to emergency situations. The school district also has it’s own police force to ensure that all campuses provide a safe environment for students, faculty, and staff. All of this protection helps keep Katyites safe and sound. The secure, home-town feel in the midst of big-city conveniences is another plus for Katy.

8. Kid-Focused Fun

Birthday parties, swimming, bowling, gymnastics and dance lessons are just a few of the fun activities for Katy kids. Inspiring and educational lessons abound in Katy, from, art lessons and music classes to martial arts and horseback riding. Whatever your youngster’s interests may be, Katy has the studios and facilities especially geared toward the development of young minds and bodies. A variety of camps and child-care programs are also available during winter, spring, and summer breaks. Read ahead – our Lessons and Activities directory offers lots of entertaining and educational opportunities.

9. A Caring Community

No matter how desirable an area may appear to be, it just wouldn’t be complete without an abundance of friendly faces. In Katy, southern hospitality still exists. You’ll meet wonderful neighbors, friendly bank tellers, dedicated teachers, and highly qualified doctors. Over the years Katy has attracted the best in healthcare practitioners and hospitals, and the job opportunities in these fields continue to grow. Construction is already underway for Texas Children’s, St. Luke’s, and The Methodist Hospital, and Christus St. Catherine’s and Katy Memorial Hermann are established facilities available for emergency care and medical procedures. Additionally, specialized and highly qualified medical practices from urgent care to long-term care keep Katy patients close to home. See our medical guide for a list of health care providers.

10. Location is Everything

For living, working, playing, and learning, when you are talking convenience, Katy has it all – and then some! People choose to live here in part because of its proximity to Houston without having to deal with the hustle and bustle of city life. Katy provides work opportunities in many fields including retail, education, and medicine. And the Katyites who commute to work can just jump on the Westpark Tollway or the HOV lanes on I-10. The METRO Park & Ride system has two nearby locations serving Katy residents, making that trek into Houston just a bit more convenient. During non-rush hours or weekends, getting into the heart of Houston is less than a 30 minute ride.

Tell us why you love living in Katy, Texas! Post your comment or email [email protected]

Katy Residents Find Ways to Shed the Pounds

Monica Romero has plenty of reasons to celebrate these days. Once considered morbidly obese, the mother of two has drastically reduced her weight by 60 pounds. Although she has not reached her goal weight yet, she has made a commitment to herself and is on track to becoming a healthier mom, wife, and daughter.

Romero is not alone in her weight loss pursuits. Obesity is now one of the biggest health issues in the United States. It’s no secret that the dietary habits of Americans are spinning out-of-control. Luckily, there are solutions for everyone.

Surgical Solutions

Romero’s success is a result of the Lap-Band procedure. Laparoscopic adjustable banding and gastric bypass are the two most popular surgical options available for the morbidly obese, which includes those with a BMI of 40 or higher, or a BMI above 35 with an obesity-related disease such as diabetes, hypertension, or sleep apnea. “Studies have shown that diets and exercise alone fail up to 98% of the time in the morbidly obese population,”states Dr. Bradley Waggoner, of Cypress Bariatric and General Surgery. “My interest in weight loss surgery is not primarily cosmetic, but is for the patient to lose the appropriate amount of weight so that they may live a longer and healthier life.”

Lap banding, which is becoming more popular than gastric bypass due to its lower risk and reversibility, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that usually allows the patient to go home the day of surgery. Romero was up and walking the next day after her Lap-Band was inserted. She admits that adjusting to her Lap-Band was difficult at first. “You have to chew your food 25-35 times every time you eat.” But, with the help of a Lap-Band support group, Romero began to shed those excess pounds. “You have to be focused and have your mind set. If your mind’s not set, you will find a way to cheat.” The Lap-Band must be tightened periodically, but Romero was able to have hers loosened while pregnant and after the birth of her daughter. Now preparing to have it tightened again, she advises others, “I would go with a Lap-Band 100%; it’s a great tool for you to lose weight.”

Group Guidance

Groups such as Weight Watchers provide not only dieting tools and information, but a place where you can get support and encouragement from others. “I had tried to lose weight on my own, and it just didn’t work very well for me,” says Susan Schroder, a Weight Watchers member. Weight Watchers members attend weekly group meetings until they reach their goal weight. Group meetings provide members the chance to learn about healthy eating, share recipes and tips, and recognize weight loss achievements. They are taught appropriate portion sizes and are encouraged to make better food choices. Once members attain their goal weight, they go through a maintenance program, after which they become lifetime members. “I’ve learned that weight loss must be a lifestyle change. The way you eat has to change for the rest of your life, not just until you reach your goal weight,” notes Schroder.

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Menu Makers

Not sure how to change your diet? Programs such as Jenny Craig and NutriSystem provide all your food for you. While Jenny Craig has centers around the area, NutriSystem is completely online. Both programs offer menus that are designed to help you lose weight. Jenny Craig provides a personal counselor to help you slowly transition from the food they provide to your own food, in addition to providing advice on physical activity and overall support. NutriSystem has counselors that can be reached by phone, a fitness DVD, and all food is sent directly to your home.

Change for the Better

Weight loss is a journey toward good health that has tremendous rewards for all those involved. It is a very personal matter, and to begin, you must find a program that works for you. There are other options out there, from hypnosis to Bible-based programs. But what matters most is being mentally ready. As Sampson advises, “If you haven’t made up your mind to lose weight, no weight loss program will work for you.”Â

Story by Holly Garcia. Copyright Katy Magazine, Cy-Fair Magazine, Sugar Land Magazine 2009.

Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital has earned the Gold Seal of Approval from the Joint Commission for Primary Stroke Centers and has also been designated as a primary stroke center by the Texas Department of State Health Services. The hospital is the first in Katy to receive the Gold Seal of Approval. The DSHS designation program seeks to establish a framework for developing a voluntary, statewide emergency treatment system for stroke victims, and will allow victims to be rapidly transported to and treated in appropriate stroke-treatment facilities. Strokes are the third leading cause of death and the leading cause of disability in America. There are over 4 million Americans living with the consequences of a stroke. Every year, about 700,000 people experience a new or recurrent stroke, which is the nation’s third leading cause of death. On average, someone suffers a stroke every 45 seconds and someone dies of a stroke every 3.1 minutes.