The Official Blog of Morningside Nannies
Houston is a unique and vibrant city, with plenty to see and do. Whether you are a long time resident or a visitor, you will never get bored in Houston if you know all the best places to visit. The next time you are in the Houston area, make sure to spend some time at these ten famous locations to get a feel for this world-class city.
Known as “the heart of Houston,” Montrose is one of the most diverse, densely populated areas in the city. A largely bohemian community, Montrose plays host to artists, musicians, poets and hipsters. There are also a number of museums in the area, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. If you are looking for a wide mix of culture in Houston, make sure to stop in Montrose.
This is one of the largest skate parks in Texas, and presents visitors with the chance to see some of the most talented skaters in the United States. The park opened in 2008, and is designed for use by all levels of skaters. Safety gear is required for anyone wanting to actively use the park. For a taste of extreme sports, Houston style, check out the Less and Joe Jamail Skatepark.
As one of the prime locations in the Houston area, Bayou Place has gone through a number of transformations over the years. It started out its life as the Albert Thomas convention center in the 1960s, before closing in the late 80s. It was 1997 when the entertainment complex finally reopened, breathing new life into the area and playing host to facilities like the Hard Rock Café and the Bayou Music center. Now a vibrant part of Houston life, Bayou Place is a big draw for both locals and tourists.
As the largest shopping complex in the entire state of Texas, The Galleria brings millions of tourists to the city of Houston each year. The center draws big names, such as Gucci, Apple and Tiffany & Co, all of whom are vying for constantly passing trade. The center is huge, so expect to spend the best part of a day finding your way around.
Ideal for families, Kemah Boardwalk offers attractions to suit every age. For the adults there are restaurants, bars, and nighttime walks along the marina. To keep the kids entertained, there are amusement rides and waterparks throughout the day. At “Stingray Reef,” you also have the chance to get up close and personal with stingrays, including the opportunity to feed these magnificent creatures of the sea.
Don’t leave Houston without visiting the city zoo. You can purchase access to exclusive tours, where you get the chance to meet rhinos, elephants, and find out about the great work the zoo does to preserve the endangered species of the world. The zoo staff are always on hand to educate visitors, making a day at the Houston Zoo a learning experience that you will never forget.
An area that is largely populated by Indian and Pakistani residents and business owners, the Mahatma Gandhi District is home to some of the finest restaurants in the city. As well as the authentic Indian and Pakistani cuisine on offer, you will find a large number of stores and markets selling jewelry and traditional dress. This is a chance to experience two of Asia’s most prominent cultures, right in the heart of Houston.
You’ll certainly regret your choices if you visit the city without stopping by the most famous space center in the world. Everyone knows that Houston is the control center for all United States shuttle missions, making it one of the most iconic locations in the entire world. The visitors’ center is an educational experience you won’t want to miss, and an opportunity to learn about future missions, along with NASA’s plans to usher mankind to the next space frontier.
Take in a day at the races by visiting the world famous Sam Houston Race Park. If you want to place a bet, you must be at least twenty-one. However, for a family day out, kids under the age of twelve are admitted for free. The park is also available for exclusive events, and can accommodate an amazing 30,000 people. For a truly memorable experience of everything that is Houston, schedule a visit to the Sam Houston Race Park as soon as you can.
The Houston Theatre District is a huge cultural hub in the city. The Houston Ballet, Symphony, and Uniquely Houston are just some of the popular theatre experiences. The area also plays host to a number of musical experiences, high-quality restaurants and bars.
Posted in
Houston |
Comments Off on 10 Locations Houston is Famous For
Birthdays are the perfect time to show friends and family members just how much they mean to you. With the perfectly selected gift, you can express a range of emotions, and make a lasting impression on the recipient. With a greeting card full of cash or a gift card, you’re just not able to show the same level of affection. Before you snag a chain-restaurant gift card in the check-out line of your neighborhood big box retailer, consider visiting one of these Houston local businesses instead.
There are some places that simply must be experienced in person, and Ann’s Fine Gifts is just such a place. Located at 14054 Memorial Drive, Ann’s is a treasure trove of unique and interesting gifts. From gold-dipped roses to clocks and jewelry, Ann’s is definitely the place to go when you’re looking for an upscale gift for the truly special someone in your life.
Located in River Oaks, Events Gifts specializes in offering distinctive gifts of the upper echelon. The unexpected finds at Events range from the functional to the delightfully frivolous, but each is unique and thoughtful. Stop by Events at 6102 Westheimer Road and browse their many offerings, and you’re sure to come away with the perfect birthday gift.
There’s an art lover in every social circle, and the Houston Museum of Fine Arts Gift Shop has the perfect birthday present just waiting for the one in your network. Stop by to find highly original and interesting gifts with an artistic bent, from notebooks made of recycled computer parts to matted prints of famous works of art. You can always purchase online, but an in-person visit allows you to browse the store in a more personal and exciting way.
Nothing says “personal” like a monogrammed gift, something Initials has in spades. Stop by to visit with the store owners, who have more than fifteen years of experience in the field of monogramming and gift personalization. You’ll find everything from jewelery to decorative tchotchkes, each of which the staff will personalize for no additional charge.
Named after the birds who are notoriously fond of shiny things, Magpies has been the recipient of several local awards, including “Best Gift Shop in Bellaire, West University and River Oaks.” There’s a Sugar Land location as well, and a store in Cypress, each of which has a selection of gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Last-minute shoppers beware, all Magpies locations are closed on Sundays.
If there’s one gift that’s always guaranteed to go over like gangbusters, it’s high-quality chocolate. Fortunately, Houston residents are lucky enough to have access to one of the best chocolate shops in the the country. Pick up a specialty cake or a chocolate greeting bar, or check out their selection of sugar-free treats for those with sugar sensitivity issues.
Located at 325 West 19th Street, Jubilee is Houston’s premier destination for offbeat and upscale gifts. Stop in to browse their extensive collection of interesting artwork, artisan bath and body products, home decor, furniture and clothing, and to find the perfect birthday gift for that special person in your life.
Texas is one place in the United States that’s absolutely brimming with pride. If the tried-and-true Texan in your life has a birthday approaching, this store is the place to find the perfect gift. From Truly Texas Gourmet food gifts to home decor and novelties with a Texas theme, Y’alls has everything a loud and proud Texan could ever hope to own.
There was a time when kids weren’t reliant upon electronic toys to stimulate their imaginations. Go back to a simpler time, when toys were interactive objects that didn’t require a wireless Internet connection, and stop by Toys to Love on Post Oak Boulevard. The little one on your birthday shopping list is sure to love these innovative toys, even the ones that don’t need batteries.
Some gifts really do keep on giving, and one of those gifts is a great book. Stop by the Blue Willow Bookshop, one of Houston’s finest independent booksellers, to pick up the ideal birthday gift for your favorite bookworm. You’ll find something for every age group, from children’s books up to adult reads. There’s even a selection of puzzles, games and other bookish gifts, so you’re guaranteed not to leave empty-handed.
Posted in
Houston |
Comments Off on 10 Places to Find the Best Birthday Gifts in Houston
Whether you’re expecting your first baby or your fifth, pregnancy is an exciting time in every woman’s life. It’s also a time of intense preparation and research. You’ll need to learn about childbirth, what to expect during labor and how to manage life as a new mom. Thankfully, there are groups in Houston who help you do just that. Expecting mothers in the Houston area have a wealth of resources at their disposal, from support groups to educational classes and fitness programs. These are just ten of the great things that the city of Houston has to offer to moms who are expecting new bundles of joy.
The Woman’s Hospital of Texas, located in Houston, offers classes and support group connections for pregnant women in the area. Learn about nursing with Breastfeeding Basics and Beyond. Prepare for a planned Cesarean section with the Cesarean Childbirth Class, and get ready for labor and delivery with Childbirth Classes. Other courses include Diabetes and Pregnancy, Infant CPR and Infant Safety Class, Life With Baby, Marvelous Multiples and Nutrition and Weight Management Class.
On Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Joy Yoga Center offers prenatal yoga classes designed to help expectant moms stay fit and healthy. Instructors and proponents of Joy Yoga Center swear by the discipline’s effectiveness in reducing the discomfort of pregnancy, the pain of labor and aiding in post-postpartum weight loss. Breathing and relaxation techniques are emphasized, as is toning crucial muscles in preparation for labor.
Some women prefer the attention of an obstetrician/gynecologist during their pregnancies, while others opt for a more natural approach. If you’re pregnant and considering a midwife instead of working with an obstetrician, the Greater Houston Midwives’ Alliance is a treasure trove of information and connections. You can even find a midwife in your neighborhood on the website.
When it comes to answering the questions of pregnant women in Houston, the Expectant Mother’s Guide is a clearinghouse of information. Everything from local businesses to shopping, pregnancy to delivery is covered on this site. Find out where the best deals are on baby gear, what to expect from your journey into mother hood and how to adjust to life with a new baby.
Meetup groups are online support groups with a local base, which means that you’ll spend time together in real life and online. There are a variety of meetups in the Houston area at any given time; all you have to do is sign up for the group and start making friends.
The Cy-Fair Hospital offers a range of classes and seminars for families expecting new babies or planning to add to their families. Preparing for Pregnancy, Preparing for Childbirth, Breastfeeding, Infant CPR and Baby Care Basics round out the offerings for expectant parents. There’s also a course for older siblings from three to nine years old, helping them learn about becoming an older brother or sister and what having a new baby in the house will mean for them.
The Motherhood Center is a one-stop-shop for all things related to pregnancy in the Houston area. Find a Doula, gain much-needed breastfeeding support and preparation and sign up for one of their many adult education classes on the subject of pregnancy and new motherhood. You can also utilize their on-site photography studio.
Expecting more than one baby can come as something of a surprise, which is why the Houston Bay Area Mothers of Multiples group extends their support to expecting moms, along with parents and guardians. This diverse group is a precious resource for moms learning to manage a multiple pregnancy and the ropes of parenting more than one newborn. The group was established in 1977 and continues to grow, as some parents of multiples within the group are now grandparents who have remained part of the support system throughout their kids’ lives.
Pregnancy may be exciting and rewarding, but it’s also largely uncomfortable. That’s where the Houston Pregnancy Massage and Doula group saves the day. Offering pregnancy and postpartum massage, along with a select group of services for babies, Houston Pregnancy Massage and Doula Care is a welcome relief from the aches and pains of expectant motherhood.
Breastfeeding is one of the best things you can do for your baby, which is why the World Health Organization recommends that mothers exclusively breastfeed their babies for the first year of life. Expecting moms who plan to breastfeed can find vital support an information through the La Leche League of Texas, which has a chapter in the Houston area.
Posted in
Houston |
Comments Off on 10 Great Resources for Expecting Moms in Houston
The winter holidays are a time for celebrating family and togetherness, just as they’re a time for spiritual reflection and religious observance. Finding a Christmas Eve service that’s welcoming to each and every member of your family, even the newest, is important. After all, the last thing you want to do on Christmas Eve is to attempt the location of a babysitter so you can attend an adults-only service. These are ten of the most kid-friendly Christmas Eve services for families in and around the Greater Houston area.
There are five separate services offered on Christmas Eve at St. Martin’s Episcopal, each of which features nursery service for kids pre-k and younger. The 4pm Family Service is especially designed for those with little ones in tow, however, with traditional carols and a reading of the Christmas story.
Family-friendly worship services at University Baptist Church take place at 4:30pm on Christmas Eve. The church is located at 16106 Middlebrook Drive in Houston, and will feature live animals, shepherds and the holy family as part of the family service. Instead of candles, UBC hands out glow sticks to keep little fingers free of accidental burns. Kids will love singing their favorite carols, and hearing the Christmas story while real, live animals attend the birth of Christ.
There are services at 3pm, 5pm and 11pm at Bellaire United Methodist, but the 5pm and 3pm services are geared especially towards family with small children. Carols, candlelight services and communion are offered, along with childcare at the 3pm and 5pm services in the Nursery.
Four services are held on Christmas Eve at The Church of St. John the Divine, but two are especially directed at young families. Held at 3:30pm and 5pm, these services feature The Children and Youth Choir singing recognizable carols. Kids are invited to gather around the altar to hear the Christmas Story, and to sing carols together. Later services are more traditional, featuring selections from Handel’s Messiah, Eucharist and an orchestra.
The folks at Chapelwood United Methodist understand that Christmastime is a very special time indeed for youngsters, which is why their Christmas Eve Family Service is geared towards families with kids elementary-aged or younger. The Family Service is held at 5pm in the Chapelwood Sanctuary, which is located at 11140 Greenbay in Houston.
Traditional candlelight services are held at Memorial Drive United Methodist Church at 3pm, 4:30pm, 6pm, 7:30pm and 9pm, with a traditional 11pm Communion service. The 3pm service features music by the MDUMC children’s choirs, costumes and lighting designed to be appealing to little ones, so try to make it to the early service if you have small ones in tow.
Sponsored by the Special Needs Ministry at The Woodlands United Methodist Church, the Christmas Eve Family Worship service takes place between 1:30pm and 2:30pm at The Woodlands United Methodist. Celebrate the birth of Christ in a kid-friendly service, which is designed to teach children about the birth of Jesus during the festive, celebratory season of Christmas.<
There are several services at St. Cecilia on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The 4pm mass on Christmas Eve features the Children’s Choir, and a live nativity in front of the church from 2:45pm to 3:45pm. Families with older kids will enjoy the 7pm service, which features music by Life Teen band.
Performances by the Children’s Bell Choir and classic carol singing make the 7pm service at Christchurch Baptist Fellowship a favorite of kids. There will be a sermon and candlelight service, but festivities wrap up by 8pm in order for parents to get little ones in bed before the big morning.
The Journey to Bethlehem services at 3pm and 5pm offer a live nativity and favorite carols, and are led by the FPC Children’s Ministry. At 4pm, there’s a Happy Birthday, Jesus party which celebrates the birth of Christ in a way kids can understand: with cookies, cupcakes and a rousing rendition of the Happy Birthday Song.
Posted in
Houston |
Comments Off on 10 Places with Kid Friendly Christmas Eve<br> Services in Houston
Houston is a beautiful city with plenty of fun and exciting things to see and do. If you are visiting Houston with your family, you will have the chance to capture memories at some of the most historic locations in both Texas, and the United States as a whole. So pack up the kids, take a picnic and get ready to enjoy some of the sights and sounds that Houston has to offer. To help inspire you, here are some of the best places to take outdoor family pictures in Houston.
There aren’t many better places to take family pictures in Houston than the beautiful Sam Houston Park. While you’re there, make sure to visit the Heritage Museum, the Alexander Hodge Memorial and the Armillary Sphere for some quality picture opportunities. If it’s history you are after, there are also a number of locations that you’ll fall in love with, including Kellum-Noble House, St. John Church and the 4th Ward Cottage. All in all, Sam Houston Park is great for any family day out.
Places like this are the stuff dreams are made of, which means you’ll want to capture the moment with a few photographs. Kemah Boardwalk is a beautiful area on Houston’s waterfront. There is a theme park, where you can recapture your youth and go home with the pictures to prove it. Snap a picture while you dine out at one of the many seafront restaurants, which are lined along the boardwalk. Or take a family photo, while everyone enjoys the seaside shows that are put on for visitors every day.
A day at the zoo is always fun, and Houston has one of the best in the world. There are shows and tours available daily, with plenty of time to stop for family pictures. Make sure to take a photo of the kids as they get the chance to feed the giraffes. Not only will you get a great picture for the family album, but you’ll be helping to feed the giraffes and other animals in the zoo by paying the $5 fee for giraffe food.
Moody Gardens is made up of three spectacular, Pyramid-shaped indoor attractions that capture the essence of nature, even in inclement weather. Visit the Aquarium Pyramid, the Rainforest Pyramid, and the Discovery Pyramid, which focuses on science activities and discoveries. Although there are plenty of photo-ops inside the attractions, the real hidden gem is from the outside. Take away the memories of your day out, against the backdrop of these three amazing structures.
If you’ve got the sea legs for it, a visit to the Battleship Texas is a must while visiting Houston. Take a tour of ship and the surrounding battlefield, stopping along the way to capture those all-important family photos. There is some real Texas history here, so make sure to set aside an entire day to take everything. Battleship Texas is also close to the Houston Space center, if you’re in the mood for a really out of this world experience.
Moving even further offshore, you will find the Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig Museum and Education Center. The now-retired jack-up drilling rig provides the ideal setting for some unique family photos. Plus, tours include an exclusive window to the inner workings of offshore energy facilities, which you won’t get in any traditional classroom. This is a great chance to have a fun-filled day out with the family, and learn a thing or two while you’re there and get a few priceless snaps for the family photo album.
It’s hard to beat an aqua-but tour when you’re looking for great photo opportunities. The Galveston Duck Tours will take you on a fifteen-mile exploratory journey around Galveston Island, where you will have plenty of time to take pictures along the way. The aqua-bus is amphibious, so be prepared to take in all the sights that you can, by both land and sea.
From the safety of a tram, get up close and personal with all the animal attractions at Bayou Wildlife Zoo. If you’re good with a camera, you can even fool your friends into thinking that you are out on safari in the wilds of Africa. The prices are very reasonable, too, at $20 per adult, $10 for kids between the ages of two and eleven. Toddlers get in for free, so take plenty of pictures to commemorate the experience.
Posted in
Houston |
Comments Off on The Best Places to Take Outdoor <br/> Family Pictures in Houston
Everyone is getting ready to deck their halls with boughs of holly, lights, garlands and other holiday flair. In addition to partying with friends, getting burned out on “Jingle Bells,” getting teary-eyed at another viewing of It’s a Wonderful Life and overdosing on holiday treats, part of the joy of the season is sightseeing. Houston holiday tours are about to begin, and if you’re not the type to sign up for the guided variety, don’t worry. You can pile the kids in the car with holiday cookies and a jug of hot chocolate or apple cider, and map out your own route.
The Houston area is loaded with neighborhoods so lit up astronauts could see them from space, and there are so many that it’s unlikely that you will see them all in one evening. After all, everything is bigger in Texas. So if you’re one who enjoys the sights of the season, get your walking shoes on, fill up the gas tank, and get ready to see some pretty spectacular displays. These are just a few places to add to your list.
Thanksgiving is a special day, and it becomes even more special when you get out to Post Oak Boulevard for a free family event. The annual Uptown Houston Lighting is one of the most well attended family events in the Houston area. Enjoy music by local groups while the kids are entertained by super-sized holiday characters. Get out your camera so you can take pictures with Rudolph, then end the night with the incredible fireworks display. Don’t fret if you don’t get there Thursday evening, though; the beautiful decorations will be on display throughout the season.
On December 6th at City Hall, the Mayor will light up the Holiday Tree. This promises to be a wonderful time for the entire family, with music, Santa and fireworks courtesy of Southwest Airlines. Come see the beautiful tower tree full of gorgeous ornaments and lights. Then take a stroll down the street to see the other displays in downtown Houston.
Until January 4, visit Houston Zoo and check out the holiday displays. They’ve added over a million lights this year to really make the place sparkle like never before. Hours for Zoo Lights are 6pm. until 10pm each evening. Be there before 9pm, because the gate closes at that time. There’s plenty of holiday action, from oak trees covered with LED lights and holiday music playing throughout to an enchanted forest with life sized lighted animal sculptures, a doll-house village and holiday trains.
If you’re up for a bit of a road trip to Galveston, Thursdays through Saturdays until December 7th, you can enjoy the beauty of the lights at Moody Gardens. After that, from December 12th through January 4th, the display can be seen nightly. Make it a day trip, and end the festivities by seeing the lights. Moody Gardens offers plenty of activities, including ice skating, ice sliding and train rides. They also have theaters, interactive museum displays and more. The Festival of Lights is one of the largest holiday celebrations around Houston. Make this holiday one to remember by the fantastic display at Moody Gardens Festival of Lights.
The 16th anniversary of this festival carries on the tradition of the community coming together to make one tremendous display of holiday lights for everyone to enjoy. While you’re at the park, let the kids decorate a cookie for $1, or get a blinking memento at the Blinkey Hut that carries all things flashy and sparkling. There’s a concession stand with hot dogs and nachos, along with beverages and other snacks. Don’t forget the picture with Santa. Bring your camera for a free shot, or they will take it for you for just $5.
One of the most talked about neighborhood holiday lighting displays is in Prestonwood Forest. This year, once again, they are celebrating in grand style and inviting the world to check out the glitz. From December 7th until the 29th, homes will be dressed up in true holiday spirit with thousands of lights, blow-ups, cut-outs and dozens of other seasonal items. From dusk until 10pm on weekdays and until 11pm on weekends, cruise Prestonwood Forest to really get in the holiday mood.
This year they’re scaling back at Woodland Heights, but it still promises to be quite a display as the homes of Woodland Heights light up for the holidays. The big celebration day, complete with music, is December 14th from 6pm until 9pm. Come enjoy this twenty-six year old celebration of illumined bliss with the whole family.
Posted in
Activities,
Houston |
Comments Off on The Best Holiday Displays in Houston
The winter holidays are a festive time of joy and celebration, especially for families in the Houston area. From art festivals and ballet performances to shopping and shows just for kids, there’s no shortage of seasonal festivities to keep the holiday spirit alive and well in your family. These are ten of the best and brightest holiday events in Houston, each with their own unique flair and mood. For a truly encompassing winter holiday season, try to take in all ten.
The incomparable Will Ferrell stars in this modern holiday classic, which will be presented by the Houston Museum of Natural Science at the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre. Bring the whole family along to enjoy this tale of an overgrown elf, and to experience a bit of holiday cheer, Houston-style.
If your family includes a Yo Gabba Gabba! fan, you simply can’t miss the Very Awesome Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! Holiday Show at the Bayou Music center. There are two shows on December 8th, which means that you have two chances to catch the holiday magic in action. If you really want to swing for the fences, consider a Gabba Party Package. This special offer includes one seat in the first fifteen rows, a pass to the private VIP room, and photo opportunities for the festive little fans in your family.
A Bay Area tradition, the Christmas Boat Lane Parade brings together more than 100,000 Houston residents to view upwards of one hundred boats, all decked out for the holiday season. The boats travel from the South Shore Harbor Marina and the Nassau Bay Lagoon all the way to Galveston Bay.
Nothing quite says “Christmas” like this Dr. Seuss classic, which the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts brings to life on the stage. Shows run from November 24th through December 5th, so you’ll have plenty of chances to bring your family to witness the wonder of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, right on a local stage.
Hosted by the Houston Ballet, the Nutcracker Market is a treasure trove of seasonal shopping and festival experiences. Running from November 7th through the 10th, tickets are available in advance for $13, or $14 at the door on the day of the event. Children under six are admitted for free.
One of the biggest holiday events in the Houston area, the Festival of Lights runs on Thursdays through Saturdays from November 22nd to December 7th, and nightly from December 12th to January 4th. Bring the whole family to witness more than one million lights and sound-enhanced displays of holiday cheer. The only outdoor ice skating rink in the area is also on-site, along with the Arctic Ice Slide and Santa photo ops.
You can catch this classic film at home on television, or you can witness a live stage production through The Players Theatre Company between November 29th and December 21st at the Owen Theatre on Metcalf Street in Conroe.
Bring your family to witness the wonder of Handel’s Messiah as performed by the Houston Symphony and Chorus. Running from December 20th to December 22nd, this is an ideal opportunity to expose your family to both the symphony and some seasonal cheer.
Visit the Galleria Mall on December 9th to experience the Chanukah On Ice event. Your family can skate with the Houston Rockets Mascot, Clutch, around the giant Ice Menorah. Seasonal foods and music will be featured, all for the price of skate rental.
The Spacetaker Winter Holiday Art Market is a new Houston tradition, featuring elements of a holiday party, festival and shopping destination, all in one location. Enjoy some artisan crafts and plenty of entertainment from November 23rd to November 24th at the Winter Street Studios on the second floor.
Posted in
Houston |
Comments Off on 10 of the Best Holiday Outings for Houston Families
There’s something very relaxing about sitting in a coffee shop, taking in the sights and scents of the café, however when you’re transporting the kids, heading into the café with toddlers in tow can be less than relaxing. When you need your java fix on the go, though, there’s just no topping a great coffee joint with a drive-through window. These are ten of the drive-through spots for Houston coffee lovers to get their morning jolt without ever having to leave the car.
With dozens of locations in the Houston area, most of which boasting a drive-through, Starbucks is a no-brainer for on-the-go coffee. The brand uniformity allows you to know exactly what to order anywhere in the world, which means you don’t have to spend precious moments reading the menu of an unfamiliar coffee shop when time is of the essence.
Whether you’re downtown, in Pearland or in a variety of other neighborhoods around the Houston area, there’s a good chance that you’re within a reasonable distance of a Shipley’s store. In addition to freshly brewed, no-frills coffee, you’ll find plenty of kolaches, donuts and other baked goods. Their drive-through windows make snagging a cup of joe and a donut an easy proposition, whether it’s early morning or late evening.
With eleven locations in and around Houston, you won’t have any trouble tracking down a Dunkin Donuts store. The stores do feature a drive-through window, which means that you’re not forced to interrupt your commute by standing on line inside a store for a simple cup of coffee. Whether your preference is for simple, straightforward brew or a frozen coffee concoction, Dunkin Donuts has you covered all over the Houston area.
Plum Coffee is rife with retro flair and a welcoming atmosphere, which makes it a great place to unwind with a coffee concoction during a rare moment of downtime. When you’re in a rush, you’ll still be able to grab your favorite Plum drink because the Cypress neighborhood cafe also features a drive-through window for regulars on the move.
Another Cypress gem, City Brew Coffee is a business built upon the old-fashioned tenets of strong customer service and an outstanding product. Because this store boasts two separate drive-through windows, your wait time during the busy morning hours is often significantly less than what you’d experience at one of the ubiquitous coffee chains.
The brand name may serve to tout the benefits of an early-morning bagel, but the folks at Einstein Bros. are equally proud of their coffee. Their Darn Good Coffee® line boasts a wide range of specialty coffee drinks, both hot and cold. There’s a drive-through window for customers on the move, and dozens of Houston-area locations to serve you, no matter where you are in the city.
There are several locations of Dunn Bros. coffee stores around the northern regions of the country, but only one location in the Houston area. The Friendswood Dunn Bros. is a popular destination for java aficionados from across the city, and their drive-through window makes it easy to get your morning jolt before hitting traffic.
Great prices, and outstanding staff and high-quality coffee make this little coffee shop a standout for Cypress coffee enthusiasts. Habitual drinkers would do well to score a loyalty card, which can earn you points on every purchase. The staff is friendly and efficient, and will get you through the window and on your way in no time at all.
Whether you prefer your coffee drip-brewed or blended with espresso, the staff at Mugz has you covered. Their full menu is available at the drive-through window, which means that you can get all the pastries and coffee your car can hold. Because Mugz is a local business with a commitment to the community, they also source supplies from other local businesses whenever possible.
Just south of Interstate 10 in Katy, Java Jo’z is a special little red building that offers a wide variety of goods. Start your morning off with a hot coffee and a sweet treat. There are two drive-through windows to speed the process along, so you’ll get your morning fix in no time.
Posted in
Houston |
Comments Off on 10 Drive Through Coffee Shops in Houston
There is nothing like the warm, cozy feeling of having a drowsy child in your lap as you read to them a story from their favorite book. The right book will both excite and soothe your child, and instill in them loving memories and an enthusiasm for the written word. Finding that perfect book for your child is indeed a treasure. So where to begin this hunt for good children’s literature? Well, in Houston, you have a lovely variety to choose from. Not only will you be able to find the books your child desires, but if you are looking for atmosphere and a good time during the shopping trip itself, Houston has a lot to offer in the way of children’s bookstores. As an added bonus, you will also find a plethora of events, story times, and educational services in many of these shops.
Blue Willow Books is a very special bookstore located on Memorial Drive in Houston. It has a large children’s section and organizes books by age and interest. Therefore, if your child has developed a recent interest in, say, panda bears, you can ask them for a book on pandas for a six year old and get just the right item. Blue Willow also has wonderful story times and other events for kids of all ages.
Brazos Books has a large kids’ room with a nice selection of books for young ones from six months to sixteen. It also has an inviting area for kids to sit and read on large pillows, a couch, or a comfy rug. Brazos is located on Bissonnet St. in Houston.
This unique store in Katy not only has books, but offers services for parents and children like reading level assessments, classes for parents, tutoring, and book readings. This store has a wonderful area to sit and read with your family that includes a fireplace, couch, and a beautiful view.
Located at Westheimer and Kirkwood, Half Price Books has a decent amount of children’s books and also hosts events geared towards young readers. For example, they often host events based upon well-loved children’s books to allow kids the chance to celebrate their own literary giants.
Even though it is a bookstore chain giant, Barnes and Noble is still a great place to shop for children’s books. With a wide variety of books and toys, you can find almost anything you are looking for in this store. You will also find frequent events to entertain little ones, with many events that includes a story time and a snack.
Katy Books is another great place to find children’s literature. They also host a weekly story time every Wednesday morning and again every Thursday evening to accommodate working parents.
At Lakeshore Learning you are bound to find lots of books for kids and tons of other educational goodies as well. Whether you are looking for books, crafts, decorations, ways to organize or just really cool developmental toys, you will find them at Lakeshore Learning.
Learning Express in Town and Country Village has a wide array of children’s books among their impressive selection of educational toys. This store often serves as a meeting spot for friends, and children love visiting the shop and trying out new products. Here you will find a friendly atmosphere where the staff try to make it a point to remember their young customers’ names.
While not a bookstore, you can’t talk about where to buy books without mentioning Houston’s library. The Friends of this library host children’s book sales quite often, so you can still score a book or two to bring home permanently at the end of the day.
As their motto states, this store is not just for teachers. If you are looking for educational books and activity books for your little ones, Teacher Heaven Books is the right place. You’ll find unique and interesting books for all ages and on all topics.
You might want to make it a point to visit all of these great stores with your child, to not only check out all they have to offer in books, but to enjoy some fun day trips together as well by taking in a story time or settling in and reading to your child yourself in a different environment. You may also find some amusing toys and engaging crafts to take home and partake in with your little one as well.
Posted in
Houston |
Comments Off on 10 of the Best Children’s Bookstores in Houston
Data released by the United States National Highway Traffic Administration shows that, even with the increase in seatbelt law stringency and regulations regarding child safety seats in automobiles, traffic accidents are still the leading cause of death for children between the ages of three and fourteen years old. The best weapon in a parent’s arsenal against injury or death in the event of a car crash is a high-quality car seat that’s been properly installed, but some models can be confusing and it’s not always easy to know whether or not a car seat is installed the right way. Thankfully, there are a variety of options available for parents in the Houston area in need of advice or assistance when it comes to maintaining and installing car seats. If you’re looking for a certified car seat technician in the Houston area, these ten resources may be the answer. (updated 10/28/14)
1. Texas Children’s Center for Childhood Injury Prevention
Located on the fifth floor of the parking garage at 7400 Fannin in Houston, the Texas Children’s Center for Childhood Injury Prevention sponsors a weekly event from 12 pm to 4 pm every Monday. Appointments are required, and can be made by calling 832-824-3483 for English assistance and 832-824-3482 for Spanish.
2. AVANCE Early Head Start
The AVANCE Early Head Start Program sponsored by Park Temple Baptist Church at 4027 Irvington in Houston offers more than preschool services. You can also get your child’s car seat inspected from 9 am to 1 pm on the third Wednesday of every month. Contact Liliana Garcia at 713-812-0033 ext. 237 for more information.
3. Cypress Creek EMS
From 9 am to 11 am every Wednesday, parents and caregivers in the Spring area can visit the Cypress Creek EMS station at 7111 Five Forks Road for assistance with car seat installation and inspection. Contact Contact Kris Roszko at 281-378-0800 for more information.
4. Pro Salud
The Pro Salud Program at Gethsemane Church in Houston at 6856 Bellaire Boulevard offers car seat inspections and installation assistance between 9 am and 1 pm on the third Wednesday of each month. Call 713-665-3103 for more information.
5. Safe Kids Greater Houston Coalition
One of the locations for Safe Kids Greater Houston Coalition installation and inspection services on the second Tuesday of each month is Monument Chevrolet. Located at 3940 Pasadena Parkway in Pasadena, services are available between 1:00 and 4:00 in the afternoon. Call Diana Martinez at 832-828-1312 for additional information.
6. Pearland EMS
On the third Friday of each month, the Pearland Fire Department offers car seat installation assistance and inspection services by appointment only. Inspections are conducted at the Pearland Fire Department Station Admin. Building located at 2703 Veterans Dr, Pearland, 77584. Contact Raquel Garza at 281-997-5840 for further information and to make an appointment.
7. Friendswood Police Department
Officer Kevin Crouch at the Friendswood Police Department at 1600 Whitaker Street in Friendswood offers car seat installation and inspections between 4 and 8 pm on alternating Thursdays. Contact Officer Crouch at 281-996-3316 to make an appointment or to determine when services will be offered next.
8. Deer Park Police Department
Deer Park area residents can obtain assistance with installation or inspections on the first Friday of each month, between 10 am and 2 pm, at the Deer Park Volunteer Fire Department, located at 1302 Center Street. Call Robert Wolfe at 832-250-4051 for appointments and assistance.
9. Texas Children’s Center for Childhood Injury Prevention
Lone Star Chevrolet, located at 18900 Northwest Freeway in Houston, hosts a Texas Children’s Center for Childhood Injury Prevention car seat inspection and installation event on the third Wednesday of every month. Services take place between 9 am and 1 pm, and you can make an appointment or inquiry by contacting Diana Martinez at 832-828-1312.
10. Fort Bend County
Fort Bend County offers parents and caregivers a three options for places to get their car seats checked. Please contact Ft. Bend County Sheriff’s Office @ 281-238-1536, Sugarland Police Department @ 281-238-1536, or Rosenberg Police Department @ 832-595-3450.
For other locations and a list of car seat checkup events, please visit: https://www.safekidsgreaterhouston.org/news-events
Posted in
Advice for Nannies,
Advice for Parents,
Houston |
Comments Off on 10 Places to Find a Certified Car Seat Tech in Houston
← Older posts Newer posts →
