Making your own baby food is a great idea for families who are on a budget.

One Katy mom shares her recipe for a healthy baby

OK, I will admit it.  I am one of those moms.  The kind of mom who has a “medical journal” for each of her kids, chronicling doctor visits, handouts, medication administration logs, etc.  The kind of mom who has kept a handwritten pregnancy journal for each of her kids.  The kind of mom who sometimes stifles her kids’ freedom of clothing expression by insisting that their outfits match their socks.  The kind of mom who makes her own baby food.

I can’t speak for other moms like me, but if pressed, I grudgingly concede I am a wee bit of a control freak. 

As for the baby food, I would argue that my choice to make my own baby food just plain makes sense.  From an economic standpoint, it provides a welcome bit of wiggle room for the tight family budgets we all have these days thanks to the economy.  And from the control freak standpoint, I know exactly what goes into my baby’s body because I made it!  The process is easy, fast and (gasp!) fun. (more…)

March 31st 2010 Posted to Babies & Tots, Community Blog, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

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Parenting books are everywhere!  Which ones do you recommend for this Katy parent?

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.  

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.   

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. (more…)

March 31st 2010 Posted to Babies & Tots, Community Blog, Katy Kids, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

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Exploring Katy’s budget and family friendly fun

March 31st 2010 Posted to Babies & Tots, Community Blog, Katy Kids, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

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Katy mom shares her tips on getting your young one out the door

Scores of articles are available in parenting magazines and on the internet about getting your school-age kids out the door in the morning. All offer sound advice and have given moms sane ways to cope with the insanity that characterizes our modern day, hectic mornings.  But what about those of us who are working moms with preschoolers and toddlers?  We endure a healthy dose of chaos ourselves.  For months, my girls, aged 3 years and 15 months, seemingly woke up every morning with a determination to fulfill their daily mission of making me late for work, and totally stressing me out in the process.  By the time I got to work, I felt like a glass of wine.  Not cool at 8am.  So I got to thinking…how can I trick these little ones into cooperating?  After all, I am a bit older and wiser.  Below, I’d like to offer a few quick tips that have worked well in the Clark Chateau (Ok, it’s an apartment, but a girl can dream, right?)

• Prep the night before.  It’s been said a hundred times, but it bears repeating.  Getting everything together the night before is a lifesaver the next morning if you oversleep or need time with a second cup of coffee.  Pick all of the clothing out and have it ready – including socks, hair accessories, etc.  Most of all, with kids this age – keep it out of their reach once it’s ready to go.  The last thing you need is your toddler running off with one of her sandals and tossing it behind the toilet.  I speak from painful experience. (more…)

March 31st 2010 Posted to Babies & Tots, Community Blog, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

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One Katy wife shares her secret for a happy marriage

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.   

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. (more…)

March 30th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Healthy Katy, Katy Family Fun, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

One Katyite has found a way to ‘give back’ on a global scale

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. 

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.  

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.  

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. (more…)

March 30th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

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March 30, 2010 – Katy, Texas – Imagination Campus’s Summer of Adventure combines fun, exploration, math, science and art in an inventive and creative package to provide our young explorers with an amazing discovery-filled journey.  Use your imagination and problem solving skills to come up with ingenious solutions to not quite so ordinary problems, solve the mystery of the missing mascot on the IC grounds or create gooey slimy concoctions in Einstein’s Lab.  Summer is full of creative adventure at IC where we innovate as we educate!  Depending on the week, Imagination Campers will explore and help create: 

*            Paleontology Expedition
*            Paper Making
*            Yummy Science
*            Writer’s Workshop
*            Junior Fitness Boot Camp
*            Brain Training “Gym”, just to name a few! 

Occasional field trips are also added in for good measure.  The cost for Summer Camps is $200 per week and includes lunch and two nutritious snacks on days that we are at the campus.   More information will be following on the website shortly www.ImaginationCampus.com.  Please feel free to contact us should you have any additional questions or require registration information.  Email: summercamps@imaginationcampus.com  281-394-PLAY (7529).

March 30th 2010 Posted to Katy News |  Email This To A Friend

 One Katyite looks back on a great day with her family at the festival   

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.

Avery making a coffee filter butterfly at one of the booths at the KVPAC Arts For All! Festival.

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! 

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?

March 29th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Family Fun, Katy Parenting, Katy Scene |  Email This To A Friend

One Katy mothers shares her favorite summer hot spot.

March 29th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Family Fun, Katy Parenting, Katy Scene, New to Katy |  Email This To A Friend

Cinco Ranch football player, Zach Asaud, signs with Midwestern State University.

March 29, 2010 – Katy, Texas -  Cinco Ranch standout defensive tackle, Zach Asaud, has signed with Midwestern State University to continue his football career. Joining Zach on this great day are:  

Seated: Mom (Lisa), Zach, and Dad (David)

Standing: Erik Hammond (Asst. Coach), Chad Simmons (Defensive Coordinator), Alex (8th grade brother at McMeans), J.D. Fincher (Asst. Coach), James Cross (CRHS Principal), and Don Clayton (CRHS Head Football Coach).

We thank Zach for the many wonderful memories he helped to create at CRHS.

We wish Zach the very best in the next step in his career and we know he do a great job for Midwestern State.  Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

March 29th 2010 Posted to Katy News |  Email This To A Friend

One Katyite mom has found a way to relieve dinner stress

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? 

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.  (more…)

March 26th 2010 Posted to Babies & Tots, Community Blog, Empty Nesters, Katy Kids, Katy Parenting, Teens & Tweens |  Email This To A Friend

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Tom Cownan, Steve Ogier, State Representative John Zerwas, Mayor Don Elder and Mert Watts enjoy great food and good conversation at the Men Who Mentor Breakfast.

March 26, 2010 – Katy, Texas – Katy ISD hosted its annual Men Who Mentor Breakfast on March 26^th.  Superintendent Alton Frailey thanked guests for their continued support of the KEYS Mentor Program and encouraged more men to become involved in mentoring male students. KEYS matches adults with students on the brink of success, and is facilitated through Partners in Education.  Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

March 26th 2010 Posted to Katy News |  Email This To A Friend

Katy Mom finding ways of tutoring her children

March 26th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Kids, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

The Soul Street Dancers with 2nd graders (L-R), Avery Miller, Hannah Morgan and Benjamin Khuu.

March 26, 2010 – Katy, Texas – As part of Arts in Education, Pattison Students were able to learn about various dances of different cultures and eras through performances from the SOUL STREET DANCERS.  Pictured with the Soul Street Dancers are 2nd graders (L-R), Avery Miller, Hannah Morgan and Benjamin Khuu.  Sponsored by the Pattison PTA, February 19, 2010.  Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

March 26th 2010 Posted to Katy News |  Email This To A Friend

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March 26, 2010 – Katy, Texas – Mrs. Whitney LaRocca was recently named TEACHER OF THE YEAR at Pattison Elementary.  She was hired by Katy ISD

Mrs. Whitney LaRocca was recently named Teacher of the Year at Pattison Elementary

 to teach 3rd Grade Language Arts and Social Studies at Pattison Elementary straight out of college from the University of Wyoming in 1999.  Mrs. LaRocca states, “My biggest focus with teaching is moving with the times, especially in the area of technology. My absolute favorite thing about teaching is working with such amazing children each and every day.  I love to watch them grow, and I even learn new things from them on a daily basis.”

March 26th 2010 Posted to Katy News |  Email This To A Friend

Rachel LeMeilleur at Schmalz Elementary was selected from more than 1,200 teachers nationwide.

March 25, 2010 – Katy, Texas – Rachel LeMeilleur, a local fourth grade teacher at Schmalz  Elementary in Katy ISD has been selected to attend the 2010 Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy at the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City, N.J.  Mrs. LeMeilleur is one of 200 highly qualified third through fifth grade teachers from around the country selected to attend the intensive one-week, all-expense paid professional development program this summer. 

A panel of educators from the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (MCTM) and the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) selected Mrs. LeMeilleur to attend the Academy.  The panel based their decision on her qualifications, dedication to inspiring students at an early age and her overall commitment to enhancing the teaching profession. 

During the  Academy, scheduled for July 18 – 23, teachers will discover new ways to excite students using experiments that demonstrate various math and science concepts including force, gravity and probability.  The Academy curriculum works to deepen teachers’ understanding of these principles by conducting hands-on experiments that teachers can share with their students in the classroom. 

Schmalz Elementary is very proud of Mrs. LeMeilleur.  Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

March 26th 2010 Posted to Katy News |  Email This To A Friend

A Katy mom shares her experiences in motherhood

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.  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 26th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Kids, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

Katy moms getting ready for a night out at the Rodeo

How an occasional evening out with the girlfriends in Katy  keeps me sane

I stay at home with my two young children, but we really don’t “stay at home”.  The three of us find great joy in having a full schedule; story time at Maud Marks Library for the toddler, playgroup once or twice a week, and pre-school and ballet lessons keep us on the move.  We love being around other families with children in similar ages, and the adult interaction is a blessing in itself.

One of the things the other moms and I joke about, however, is the fact that we’ve never started a conversation and completed it in the same playdate.  The interaction is just what the children need, and while they are with us, they are our focus.  But that means that sometimes, the most interaction the moms get is a half-sentence blurted out as we chase the children around the playground. (more…)

March 25th 2010 Posted to Katy Parenting, Katy Scene, Uncategorized |  Email This To A Friend

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One Katy Mom Shares the Benefits of Family Meals

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. (more…)

March 25th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Kids, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

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A Katyite remembers where her love of reading originated

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.   (more…)

March 25th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Kids, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

How Katyites stay healthy through spring, summer and year ’round

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.

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March 25th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Healthy Katy |  Email This To A Friend

Making Reading and important part of your Katy Cutie’s Life

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. (more…)

March 25th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Kids, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

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 24th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Family Fun, Katy Scene |  Email This To A Friend

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Enjoying Community Activities in Katy This Easter Season

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.

Avery enjoying the bounce house at last year's Easter Fest.

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. 

I’m looking forward to Easter Fest this upcoming Wednesday, March 31^st 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.   

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March 24th 2010 Posted to Babies & Tots, Katy Kids, Katy Parenting, Katy Scene |  Email This To A Friend

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March 23, 2010 – Katy, Texas – The Collings Foundation, which owns and operates, among others, three World War II war birds (P-51 Mustang, B-24 Liberator Bomber and the renowned Flying Fortress – the B-17) gave the Katy VFW Post 9182 the opportunity to relive some old memories Wednesday, March 17 through Friday, March 19.  Four of our WW II members (George Berg, E.D. Christensen, Buddy Wunderle and Paul Zanfardino) flew in the historic B-17 on Wednesday from Ellington Field to the Houston Executive Airport located in Brookshire, TX.  Accompanying the WW II veterans was Katy Mayor Don Elder. When the flight ended at Brookshire, several of the veterans were emotionally moved. 

George Berg (the oldest member of Post 9182; WW ll veteran who served in North Africa and Italy), E.D. Christensen (WW ll veteran, P38 pilot in Europe; D Day Army Air Corps), Paul Zanfardino (WW ll, US Navy), Katy Mayor Don Elder and Lawrence "Buddy" Wunderle (US Army tank commander and member of General Patton's Third Army) Photo by Wallace Klekar.

Additionally, as part of the Texas Tour by The Collings Foundation, the WW II planes were accompanied by a true Vietnam era workhorse, a USMC Huey Helicopter that had seen six years of Combat in the late 60’s and early 70’s in Vietnam.  Three of our Vietnam Vets (Stephen Brady, Mike Warren and Dave Brasell) were afforded the opportunity to fly in and relive their memories in this historic aircraft.

Post Junior Vice Commander Dave Brasell, the local coordinator for this event said, ”The Post is most grateful to the Collings Foundation for allowing some of our membership to relive and bring back old memories.”  On Friday post members Henry Whitmire, Stephen Griswold and others were given the opportunity to ride from Brookshire to Sugar Land in the B-24 Liberator.  VFW Service Officer Sam Luna had the opportunity to fly to Sugar Land in the bombardier’s seat on the B-17.  It was a fantastic event for veterans and members of our community.

This opportunity for our veterans was made possible through the initial contact of Post Commander, Colonel Peyton Lumpkin, USAF (Ret), with the personnel at the Collings Foundation in Stowe, Mass.  Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

March 24th 2010 Posted to Katy News |  Email This To A Friend

Encouraging your Katy Toddler’s Healthy Eating Habits

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. 

Featured Katy blog writer, Lerin Wheeless, give her daughter, Lucy, her first teething biscuit.

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!  (more…)

March 24th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Healthy Katy, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

Finding the right pet for your Katy family

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 24th 2010 Posted to Katy Family Fun |  Email This To A Friend

Featured blog writer, Angela McClinton and her husband. KPhoto by Kristin King Photography

How one Katy couple Makes the Most of their Time Together

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.” 

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. 

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.  (more…)

March 24th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

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How Katy Parents Can Manage Cell Phones And Teens

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. 

Do you have any tips on managing your child’s cell phone?  Please comment below.

March 23rd 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Parenting, Teens & Tweens |  Email This To A Friend

March 19, 2010 – Pink was the color of the Night.  Opening weekend at the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show was very special.  Great applause could be heard throughout the arena as the 2010 breast cancer survivors Beverly Cantrell, Laura McCleary, Marg Curtis, Dorothy Ashby, San Nuckols, Sharon Pallatt, Harriet Glassman, Sally Orenstein, Ida Ginsburg, Joan Cantrell rode through the arena and announced, or shall we say were “tickled pink,” that they rasied over $10,000.00 for “Ride for the Cure in 2010″.

All of the proceeds will be divided equally between the UPHA Susan G. Komen Foundation and the Nellie B. Connally Breast Cancer Center at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. These two phenomenal programs lead the world in the development of innovative treatments, education about the disease and the continuous search for a cure. 

The winners of the Ladies’ Five-Gaited Class taking first place was Joan Cantrell and horse BlueBonnet’s Challenger and taking second place was May Chadick and horse Oscar DeLa Hoya.   

For more information, please contact the Pin Oak Charity Horse show office at 713.621.6290.

March 22nd 2010 Posted to Katy News |  Email This To A Friend

March 22, 2010 — March 3, 2010 was the second annual day of awareness for America to stop and think about their use of the R-word. In honor of our children with disabilities, Special Olympics and Best Buddies International, RAE Special Buddies took a stand to raise awareness of the hurtful effects of the R-word. Their hope is to encourage others to think before they speak and educate their peers about how using the R-word supports a negative stereotype. 

Roosevelt Alexander Elementary Special Buddies Program Participants

RAE Special Buddies strives to teach all children to overlook differences and  to help all children learn that everyone has strengths, abilities, hopes, dreams and something special to contribute to our school and community.  Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

March 22nd 2010 Posted to Katy News |  Email This To A Friend

Early Education for Katy kids on a Budget

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!

Photo by Lerin Wheeless

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. 

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.

(more…)

March 22nd 2010 Posted to Babies & Tots, Community Blog, Katy Kids, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

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How one Katy mom discovers the simple joys

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. 

(more…)

March 22nd 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Family Fun, Katy Kids, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

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Record numbers and attendance at this year’s Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

Line dancing at the Houston 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

• More than 1,500 kids participated in Mutton Bustin’ in the Kids Country Arena, and more than 280 participated in Mutton Bustin’ in Reliant Stadium.
• In the birthing center, 73 piglets, 22 lambs and 17 calves were born during the Show. In the poultry exhibit, more than 1,000 chicks were hatched.
• More than 300,000 stuffed animals were won in the carnival. (more…)

March 22nd 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Family Fun |  Email This To A Friend

Ideas for Making Yourself an Invaluable Employee

KATY WORKLIFE –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.

1. Bring Solutions, Not Problems. Bosses like it when you have already mulled it over and can recommend a solution. Also, be willing to help implement the solution.
2. Provide Exceptional Customer Service. Come up with innovative ways to provide superior customer service and demonstrate it daily.
3. Avoid Clockwatching. Employers notice who stays a little longer to finish the project and who  races out the door at 5:00 sharp.
4. Be a Giver.  Ask yourself ‘how can I be of service to someone at work today?’ Try a random act of kindness, acknowledge someone’s hard work, or offer to take on a new project.
5. Maintain Flexibility. Workplaces are constantly changing and nothing is ever set in stone. Employees who learn to roll with it are more valuable than ones who are too set in their ways. Never have a ‘that’s not my job’ attitude.
6. Be a Great Communicator. Convey your expectations to others, respond to emails politely, and resolve lingering disputes in a professional manner. Bottom line – get your needs met by using positive communication skills. At the core of almost all workplace problems is miscommunication. (more…)

March 22nd 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Worklife |  Email This To A Friend

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Houston, Texas – March 19, 2010 – Pink was the color of the Night.  Opening weekend at the Pin Oak Charity Horse Show was very special.  Great applause could be heard throughout the arena as the 2010 breast cancer survivors Beverly Cantrell, Laura McCleary, Marg Curtis, Dorothy Ashby, San Nuckols, Sharon Pallatt, Harriet Glassman, Sally Orenstein, Ida Ginsburg, Joan Cantrell rode through the arena and announced, or shall we say were “tickled pink,” that they rasied over $10,000.00 for “Ride for the Cure in 2010″. 

All of the proceeds will be divided equally between the UPHA Susan G. Komen Foundation and the Nellie B. Connally Breast Cancer Center at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. These two phenomenal programs lead the world in the development of innovative treatments, education about the disease and the continuous search for a cure. 

The winners of the Ladies’ Five-Gaited Class taking first place was Joan Cantrell and horse BlueBonnet’s Challenger and taking second place was May Chadick and horse Oscar DeLa Hoya.   

For more information, please contact the Pin Oak Charity Horse show office at 713.621.6290.  Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

March 22nd 2010 Posted to Katy News |  Email This To A Friend

From our Katy family to yours–a few hints to make bringing home the new baby as seamless as possible

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.

Big sister, Avery, holding newborn baby sister, Kate.

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.

(more…)

March 22nd 2010 Posted to Babies & Tots, Katy Parenting |  Email This To A Friend

Katy Parenting in the Technological Age

March 20, 2010 –Katy, TX –When I look at all the technology gadgets our kids have today compared to what I had as a teen, it boggles my mind. First, the cell phone. My teen daughter can send 50 text messages a day and stay in complete communication with all her friends without ever having a live conversation or even seeing them. When I wanted to talk to friends, I had to pick up the phone and call them or stop by for a visit.

As with most things in life, there is some good and some bad that comes with cell phones and technology. The – communication is  immediate and people can be reached quickly. The bad – are our children forgetting the art of face to face communication? Are they saying things via text, Facebook, or email that they would never dare say to someone’s face? Will they know how to hand write a letter and actually mail it? (more…)

March 20th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Parenting, Teens & Tweens, Uncategorized |  Email This To A Friend

 A Free Gift To Our Katy Community

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.

Mural at Muad Marks Library in Katy

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 19th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Family Fun |  Email This To A Friend

One Katy mom makes memories with her boys at Mason Road Skate Center

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 19th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Family Fun |  Email This To A Friend

Katy teens also need downtime to ‘chill’

March 19, 2010 –Katy, TX –With the challenging Katy ISD curriculum and the competition getting heavier for college acceptances, it seems our teenagers are overwhelmed with activities; school, work, church, college prep, sports,  and  extracurricular activities, there is little time to just build friendships and have fun. It’s important for parents to encourage teens to enjoy some downtime with friends and just hang out too.  Here are some great Katy places to ‘chill’ this Spring according to my two teens.

Meet up with friends at Sonic, Chilis, IHOP, McDonalds on Westheimer Pkwy., Dunn Brothers Coffee or other Katy teen gathering place.

Take your dog to the Weistheimer starbucks and sit outside with your frappacino and people watch.

Head to LaCenterra and window shop, eat dinner or just grab a cookie at Nestle Cookie store.

Hit Times Square with your buds for bowling, billiards, laser tag or games. There’s also AMF on North Fry Rd.

Movies at Katy Mills or Cinemark. You can even buy tix online ahead of time.

Take your dog and your date to the Millie Bush Bark Park at Bush Park on Westheimer Parkway.  Get a puppy fix and your dog will have a blast too.

(more…)

March 19th 2010 Posted to Teens & Tweens, Uncategorized |  Email This To A Friend

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At Home or out in the Katy community? Where’s the best place to have a birthday party?

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!

March 19th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Family Fun, Katy Kids |  Email This To A Friend

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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?

March 19th 2010 Posted to Community Blog, Katy Family Fun, Katy Kids |  Email This To A Friend

Katy Mom is Looking for Tips and Tricks to get ‘Pre-Kids’ Body Back

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.

March 19th 2010 Posted to Healthy Katy |  Email This To A Friend

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March 18, 2010 — Seven Lakes Orchestra Parent’s Association (SLOPA) is proud to announce its second annual Art Violin Raffle, Music to the Eyes.  Local artists have donated their time and talents to create unique art pieces painted on a non-playable violins.   

SLOPA is a 501(c) 3 non profit organization whose purpose is to support the Seven Lakes High School Orchestra program.  This includes the purchase of equipment, music, and providing scholarships for qualifying Seven Lakes Orchestra graduating seniors.

The raffle will be held May 22, 2010, following the orchestra concert held at Seven Lakes High School , 9251 Fry Road , Katy , TX 77494 .  The art violins will be displayed in the Katy area.  If you are interested in exhibit locations, viewing the art violins online, learning more about the artists, or purchasing raffle tickets, visit www.musictotheeyes.org  or email violinraffle@sevenlakesorchestras.org.  You need not be present to win.  Please mention you found this on www.KatyMagazine.com.

March 18th 2010 Posted to Katy News |  Email This To A Friend

 March 17, 2010 — Mattie Mason, RN, BSN, a postpartum nurse at Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital and founder of New Life Perinatal Health Care Services, Inc., has received the Award for Excellence in Perinatal Obstetrical Nursing from the March of Dimes.

Mattie Mason, second from left, accepts the Award for Excellence in Perinatal Obstetrical Nursing from the March of Dimes.

Mason, who has thirty years of experience in hospital nursing and community health care, joined Memorial Hermann Katy in 2004. She also is the founder and owner of New Life Perinatal Health Care Services, Inc., where she provides home health and case management for pregnant teens, premature infants and special needs children. Mattie works closely with social workers and provides health care referrals and resources for parents.

“I love making a difference with mothers and their babies,” Mason said. “It is so important because mothers are the foundation of the family.”

Mason founded New Life Services in her spare time after she discovered she had a special interest in working with pregnant teens, young mothers and children with special needs.

“I tell the young people that I work with that it is not how smart you are but how determined you are,” Mason said. “If you are determined enough and love something enough, you will be successful at it.”

Mason’s co-workers are inspired by her drive and determination to build her own business providing healthcare services for families.

“Mattie is a dynamic, compassionate and caring person,” said Linda Salter, director of women’s and children’s services at Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital. “She is highly dedicated to providing care for families, and she always has a smile on her face. Mattie loves nursing and everything she is able to accomplish with her skills and knowledge.”

The Award for Excellence in Perinatal Obstetrical Nursing is given annually to encourage excellence and recognize those who reach beyond job expectations to make a difference in the lives of mothers and babies. Winners are chosen by the State Professional Education Sub-Committee of the March of Dimes Texas Chapter.

March 18th 2010 Posted to Katy News |  Email This To A Friend

Singer Songwriter AJ Bass to Perform at Kosmos Coffee Shop in Katy

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.

March 17th 2010 Posted to Katy Scene |  Email This To A Friend