The Official Blog of Morningside Nannies
Mommyhood can get lonely after a while, especially if you are used to a lot of adult interaction. Many moms appreciate staying at home with the little ones, but they also miss speaking with adults and doing things besides entertaining, feeding and cleaning up after kids. Often, when moms do have a chance to be with other adults, they find that their own conversation frequently reverts back to stories about the kids and sometimes they feel out of the loop of non-parent society. However, meeting up with other mothers provides adult conversation and support from others who are dealing with the same issues. Here are some suggestions on how to go about meeting other moms in Houston.
Did you know there are several meetups in the Houston area for stay at home moms? On this site you will find mom groups for just about every area of interest. They meet at various times, anywhere from weekly to monthly and sometimes just for a particular event. Membership in a group can range from just a few to large numbers, depending on the group. This is a wonderful way to get to know other mothers in your area and also an avenue to explore different interests with your kids.
There is no doubt that this is the era of the playgroup. Social Toddler provides a lot of information for moms, including available playgroups in the Houston area. Playgroups don’t just provide a chance for the kids to interact, moms also get to meet each other and share their worlds. Some groups hone in on specific areas of interest, while others are just into fun.
This free community for moms offers you friendships, discussion forums and monthly face-to-face events to meet with other Houston area mothers. If you are looking for local support for motherhood, this is a place you will want to check out. You will find lots of advice and suggestions on everything from haircuts to decorating for your kids. Check out the events calendar to find out about the interesting things Houston Area Mommies are doing.
This international organization has groups meeting in your area. Mothers of Preschooler (MOPS) is an organization that is dedicated to supporting mothers through small groups that provide mentoring, support, conversation, and other activities that make mothering fun and less stressful. There are speakers at meetings that offer practical help for common issues. Your group may also teach a new craft that you can share with your children. Joining MOPS can help you feel more confident in your parenting and give you an outlet to socialize with other like-minded women.
Champion Forest Baptist Church hosts a group with mothers from all seasons of life. This group encourages moms to prioritize the stuff of motherhood along Biblical principles. It also promotes a closer relationship with Christ as the group studies the Bible and has discussions. Occasionally, a special guest will speak on a topic with special interest geared toward real-world applications for your family. This intergenerational group is a blessing for moms looking for support with mothering and spiritual development.
If you are into fitness and want to meet like-minded moms, you will want to check into Baby Boot Camp. This franchise has fitness classes and training for the on-the-go mom. They offer exercise classes, yoga-inspired stroller fitness, nutrition classes and Strollerfriends, which is a moms group that promotes healthy families.
The Mocha Moms is an open organization which reaches out to all moms who are willing to abide by the mission of the organization. They provide support primarily to at-home mothers of color, however they have a policy of non-exclusivity and they do not discriminate. The South Houston Chapter is one of over 100 Mocha Moms Chapters throughout the United States. The chapter provides social interaction and encouragement to women working inside and outside of the home. All phases of motherhood are represented in this chapter of Mocha Moms.
Nursing mothers and mothers-to-be who are considering breastfeeding will find reassurance, along with new friends, at La Leche League meetings. This international organization has groups that meet all over the world supporting mothers who breastfeed. They provide resources, information and conversation around the art of nursing. Contact the Houston area group for more information.
This group is for moms who live closer to Houston proper. This play group invites moms to join in meetups to the park, Children’s Museum, nights out for Mom and a variety of other activities and adventures. Though it is a group for Muslim moms and children, all moms are welcome.
For those of you who have twins or more, there is a group for moms who walk in your shoes. This group offers encouragement, assistance, advice and ideas and they help you navigate the waters of parenting multiple siblings. They also participate in research projects, but most importantly, they provide a space for parents of multiples to meet and share their stories.
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Houston is home to a great many attractions for kids and families, but the Houston Children’s Museum is in a class of its own. Named “America’s Number One Children’s Museum” by Parents magazine and ranked as one of the best in the nation by Forbes, there’s no doubt that Houston kids are lucky to live in close proximity to such an outstanding institution. If you’re planning a trip with your brood, there are a few exhibits you just can’t afford to miss. Make sure you take the time to check out these ten exhibits, along with all the other award-winning features of the Houston Children’s Museum.
1. Invention Convention
Kids can invent their own motion machines, create jewelry, experiment with light and sound and learn the basic tenets of robotics in the Invention Convention exhibit. Spare parts, project tables and schematics abound, letting your little ones explore engineering and invention in a kid-scaled environment.
2. How Does It Work?
Kids are infinitely curious, especially when it comes to learning how things around them operate. The Houston Children’s Museum exhibit How Does It Work? answers many of those questions through hands-on experimentation. The ’66 Mustang in Auto Alley give little ones an up close and personal view of how vehicles work, while fiber optics and communications experiments help kids solve a few technological mysteries.
3. TotSpot
Older kids aren’t the only guests welcomed at the Houston Children’s Museum. Infants and toddlers through thirty-five months are encouraged to spend a bit of time in the TotSpot exhibit, which stimulates little minds. Little ones can turn knobs, roll around in the ball and pillow bit, and build motor skills by walking the Meandering Path.
4. EcoStation
Teaching kids about the natural world is one of the first steps to instilling the values of good environmental stewardship and ecologically-conscious behavior. This indoor/outdoor exhibit allows kids to get in touch with nature through a woodland area, research pavilion and a pond teeming with aquatic critters. In addition to static programs, there are also a selection of rotating workshops and experiments to keep the experience of visiting the EcoStation fresh, even with repeated visits.
5. Matter Factory
Understanding the basics of molecules and atoms sets the stage for future excellence in the sciences, which is one of the reasons why parents should make a point of visiting the Houston Children’s Museum Matter Factory. Kids even have the opportunity to explore nano-technology in the Super Small Matter Lab, which is part of the exhibit.
6. Building Zone
Little builders are sure to love the physics and engineering lessons in the Building Zone, which helps kids understand the basics of construction and design. This hands-on exhibit gives kids a strong basis for future exploration, especially in the field of engineering and construction.
7. Kidtropolis
A city populated and run solely by children isn’t just a kid’s dream; it’s a reality at Kidtropolis. Youngsters get to learn about government and occupational roles through this exhibit, which includes civic lessons in voting, commerce and city planning. There’s even a simulated economy, helping little ones to grasp the concept of spending and earning money.
8. PowerPlay
There’s no doubt about the importance of education, but physically active pursuits also play a major role in kids’ healthy development. The PowerPlay Fitness Activity Center gives children ample space to run, jump and dance. From the Power Tower climbing structure to a health section sponsored by the Baylor College of Medicine, there’s no end to the fitness and health lessons at the PowerPlay exhibit.
9. Cum Yah Gullah
Learning about other cultures widens kids’ world view, and the Cum Yah Gullah exhibit helps them to do just that. The exploration of the West African Gullah culture includes storytelling, language and music to help kids understand the rich history of a contributing and important culture.
10. McGovern Kid’s Hall
Kids are naturally appreciative of art, but its an interest that must be actively cultivated throughout their lives. The John P. McGovern Kids’ Hall is home to an exhibition of traveling art, which allows kids to see famous works on a regular basis. Because the collections change periodically, this is one area that can easily become a regular stop for parents and caregivers.
Visit https://www.cmhouston.org/free-discounts/ for museum hours, discounts & free special offers!
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It may seem easier and more convenient to stock your kids’ lunch boxes with bags of chips, fruit cups and packaged lunchmeat in a rush, but the reality is that your kids need a nutritious boost to get them through a full day of school. Preparing healthy lunches that will give your child that healthy punch of energy throughout the day can be just as convenient and the result will be a healthier, happier child who is ready to learn and fully participate in the school day.
The Lunch Kit Alternative
Lunch can comprise one-third of your child’s nutrition for the day, so it’s important to pack nutrient-rich foods that your child will enjoy, says Jessica Cox, registered dietitian and culinary nutritionist at eMeals, a meal planning service based in Birmingham, Ala.
“Focus on whole foods,” suggests Cox. “Packaged foods and ready-made lunch kits may be convenient, but they are generally more expensive, less nutritious and higher in fat, sugar and salt than whole foods.”
Cox suggests building a healthy lunch for your child by choosing one item from each of the following categories:
- Lean Protein
- Whole Grains
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
- Low-Fat Dairy
Make Healthy Food Fun
If your child scrunches up her nose at the sight of fruits and vegetables, show her just how fun food can be. “Consider variety in colors, shapes, sizes and textures when packing a healthy lunch,” says Cox.
Get creative by making the food an interactive experience for your child at lunchtime:
- Use cookie cutters to cut foods into interesting shapes and include a variety of fruits and vegetables, which naturally add a rainbow of colors.
- Make lunches interactive by packing healthy dips such as hummus or low-fat yogurt with vegetables.
- Pack a build-your-own style lunch like corn tortillas with beans, cheese and salsa for tacos.
- Use toothpicks to make kabobs with cooked meat, low-fat cheese and vegetables like cherry tomatoes, broccoli florets or cucumber slices.
For a bite-sized snack before or after lunch, start chopping, recommends Dr. Jenna Bell, registered dietitian and co-author of “Energy to Burn: The Ultimate Food & Nutrition Guide to Fuel your Active Lifestyle.”
“Cut up a pineapple or melon into bite-size pieces for snacks and lunches,” she says. If your child prefers nibble-size veggies, combine a variety pack of chopped up carrots, celery, broccoli, bell peppers, cauliflower or any other vegetable that might be good for dipping and snacking.
It’s also possible to make the same-old staples healthy and fun, too, says Dr. Keith Kantor, a leading nutritionist in Georgia.
- A Twist on PB & J: Instead of standard PB & J, make a healthy sandwich with two slices gluten free bread, one-two tablespoons of all natural almond or cashew butter and all natural fruit spread. With one apple and a serving of carrot sticks, complete with two tablespoons hummus for dipping, your child will be begging for this lunch everyday.
- Lettuce Wraps: Toss the bread and compile nitrate free deli chicken or turkey, tomatoes, spinach, one ounce cheese and mustard into a lettuce wrap for a delicious sandwich. Add some melon or nuts to the lunchbox or make a homemade trail mix.
- Sweet Surprises: Instead of pudding and fruit cups, both high in sugar content, pack six to eight ounces of Greek yogurt and all natural granola and berries for a sweet surprise in your child’s lunch pail. Allow your child to assemble an “ants on a log” treat with five celery sticks, all natural peanut, almond or cashew butter and raisins.
According to Kantor, always focus on color with both fruits and vegetables, high quality protein and heart healthy fats to keep your child motivated and energized during the school day.
Solicit Help With Packing Lunches
One sure fire way to get your child to eat a healthy lunch is to involve him in choosing, planning and preparing the lunch, says Cox.
“It doesn’t matter how healthy the contents of your child’s lunchbox is if they don’t eat it,” she says. “Work with your child to create a list of foods they like in each food group to plan lunches and assemble lunches together the night before.”
If your child is enthused about helping you prepare these meals, it’s likely he will be racing to devour his healthy lunch with a healthy punch each day at school.
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The city of Houston has a long-standing tradition of supporting sports and athletic activities. Indeed, a love of sports is something of a Texas pastime altogether. Because youth sports are such a great way to encourage physical activity in kids and to prevent childhood obesity, parents across the city are eager to get their kids involved in team sports. If you’re among those parents who hopes to instill a love of competitive sports in your children, these are ten of the can’t-miss opportunities in and around the city of Houston.
Martial arts, soccer, football and baseball are just some of the sports available for kids at the YMCA Houston. The kids get a practice session once a week, with a game taking place every weekend. Each program is priced differently, so if you’re interested you need to apply to the program for further details. However, a program membership costs $30 dollars a year and comes with inclusion to all YMCA programs.
If your kids are bouncing off the walls, perhaps it’s time to introduce them to trampoline tournaments. Sky Zone hosts non-competitive trampoline competitions for over 13 year olds, with lots of prizes up for grabs. Entry costs $13 per person. Also on the cards is the 3-D Dodgeball contest; combining classic dodgeball and trampoline in a test of skill, coordination and timing.
There are plenty of sports available through the Houston Parks and Recreation Department, in coordination with local community centers. An expert team of sports professionals are on hand to offer coaching, support and structured competition. Soccer, softball and aquatic sports are some of the choices available to kids in the Houston area.
This is a great place for kids to learn sports, discipline and other important life-skills. There is gymnastics, cheerleading and tumbling on offer, as well as day and summer camp programs. What’s more, parents aren’t left out in the cold. There are frequent parents’ nights with the staff, just to give you the break you need.
Ready, take aim, fire! Fearshire Paintball is a great place to introduce your kids to the growing sport of paintballing. The company operates out of Fearshire Farms, which has two expansive areas dedicated exclusively to paintballing competitions and team-building events. Referees are on hand at all times to ensure that your kids have a fun but safe experience.
The focus here is on team and group events. Rock climbing, rappelling and assault courses will help kids learn cooperation and how to achieve goals. The course is challenging, but with a team of expert trainers and coaches on hand, your kids are sure to have a blast. Make sure to book early to avoid missing out on a spot.
While your kids are actually only racing miniature cars at Races2U, the sport is both mentally and physically challenging. The company has invested a lot of time and money to create an experience that is as close to the real thing as you’re going to get, while safely standing on solid ground. If your kids really get into slot-car racing, Races2U can even design a track for your home.
Mixed martial arts is considered the fastest growing sport in the world. Team Tooke provides excellent services for your kids, including kid’s grappling, summer camps and after school events. Your kids can learn skills across a wide-range of martial arts disciplines, as well as picking up some valuable life skills, too.
It’s all about the kids at Houston Youth Football. With innovative programs, sponsorship from the NFL, and top quality summer camps, your kids are in safe hands. Every year the camps grow in numbers, meaning there is plenty of opportunity for your kids to compete with the best in the state. For a real chance at a career in the big leagues, make sure to sign them up for the Houston Youth Football program.
This volunteer organization aims to provide a platform for youth hockey in the Houston area. All coaches are fully certified, so your kids get nothing but the best training. Team ages are not strict, and are solely determined by skill level in many respects. The youngest team is represented by the squirt minors, while the oldest team is the 18Us. The organization has a full practice schedule, which is always available on their main website.
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The season of cool weather, harvest parties and Halloween costumes has arrived, to the delight of fall fanatics everywhere. For those autumn enthusiasts who live in the Houston area, the time has also arrived to pick the pumpkins that will complete your harvest-themed decor. Whether you plan to carve them, paint them or just display them in all their natural glory, there’s no doubt about the iconic role of the pumpkin in fall decorating schemes. Here are ten of the places where you can, as a family, pick out your pumpkins for the season.
The sixteen-acre field at Dewberry Farm is rife with several varieties of pumpkin, which you and your family can pick yourselves. A tractor-drawn wagon ride carts you to and from the field, adding a bit of extra fun to the experience. While you’re there, check out the corn maze, pedal carts, zip lines and baby animals on the property. A trip to Dewberry Farms is almost like a trip to the amusement park, located in nearby Brookshire, Texas.
The pumpkins at Oil Ranch have already been harvested from the field, so you don’t have to forage for the perfect specimens and pluck them off the vine. Both full-sized and child-sized hay bale mazes add to the fun, as do pony rides and a trip to the petting zoo on the property. During the harvest season, Oil Ranch is also home to more than eighty-five different scarecrows.
If you want a pumpkin-picking experience that’s a bit of a departure from the norm, visit TGR Exotics in Spring, Texas. In addition to the perfect pumpkin, TGR is also home to kangaroos, camels and other exotic animals. On Friday nights throughout the harvest season, TGR Exotics hosts a “Movie Night in the Pumpkin Patch” event, complete with family-friendly film fare and the opportunity to donate the $3.00 admission fee to wildlife preservation foundations.
Why not turn your pumpkin selection process into a charitable offering? When you purchase from the Aggie Habitat for Humanity Pumpkin Patch, you’re actively contributing to a community assistance program that will help families in and around Houston become the owners of their very own homes. This pumpkin fund-raiser is held on the grounds of Covenant Presbyterian Church, and helps to fund house-building efforts for Houston families in need.
What’s a harvest celebration without a hayride? At Berryland Farms, your family enjoy a hayride, a corn cannon, a culvert swing, and a tire tower, among other exciting activities. Face painting and pumpkin bowling are on the menu, too. Come for a pumpkin, and leave with a treasure trove of fun, seasonal memories.
Whether you want to pick your own pumpkins from the patch or prefer them fresh off the vine and gathered from the field, Blessington Farms has you covered. They also host an annual fall festival, cow train rides, mazes and tractor-drawn hayrides. Blessington Farms is located just west of Katy, and forty miles west of downtown Houston in Simonton, Texas.
Earth-conscious families will appreciate the natural growing practices and the perfect pumpkins of B&M Farms in Silsbee, Texas. Pick pumpkins yourself in the field, or choose from their selection of gathered pumpkins if you prefer not to do your own picking. Snag a jar of fresh honey collected from the on-site hives, or fresh eggs from their free-range chickens.
Enjoy a bit of seasonal spookiness on the haunted trail at Halter, Inc., along with the face painting, pony rides, miniature horse obstacle course and refreshments offered by the staff. When you’re finished with the seasonal, outdoor fun offered at Halter, Inc., pick up a few pumpkins to carve, paint or turn into delectable edibles.
Pick your own pumpkins at Matt Family Orchard after enjoying your very own fall festival with a group of fifteen or more. Reservations are required, but there’s enough fun to fill an entire day. When the festivities end, you’ll go home with more than enough pumpkins to go around at the family carving stations.
Why grab a batch of pumpkins from a chain grocery store when you can buy them from Old MacDonald’s farm? Your local supermarket may be conveniently located, but they don’t offer pony rides, a petting zoo or a train ride. More than fifteen acres of family fun are on the menu at Old MacDonald’s farm, just be prepared for a few renditions of the classic kids’ song during your outing.
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The weekend seems to be a magnet for childhood health concerns. Whether it’s a cold or flu getting serious or broken bones, kids seem to be their worst after hours or on the weekends. These are traditionally the times when it’s most difficult to find health care, especially for kids. Sometimes it’s not about the kids getting sick on the weekend. Many busy families have schedules that make weekday visits to the doctor for well-child checkups difficult. Fortunately, more clinics and urgent care centers are meeting the needs of those families that need care during the weekend. These ten healthcare providers are not only among the best in Houston, but are also available on weekends
This clinic serves residents of the Cypress-Fairbanks area, and they care for newborns up through adolescents. The board certified pediatricians here are also affiliated with the Cypress-Fairbanks Medical Center Hospital. They are also members of the American Academy of Pediatrics. You can bring the kids here for well-child exams and immunizations. The clinic also handles school and sports physicals, and can usually arrange same-day appointments for sick kids. Consultations are available for various issues such as attention deficit disorder, hyperactivity or other behavioral challenges. Luv-N-Care Pediatrics is open on Saturdays, and they are located at 11037 FM 1960 Suite B-2A in Houston. The phone number is 832-237-8882.
Since 1977, this clinic has been serving families in the Houston area. The pediatricians here are board certified with years of experience. They provide well-child check-ups, school and sports physicals and vaccines. The Great Kid Pediatrics website contains a variety of information including vaccine schedules, feeding schedules and growth charts along with frequently asked kids’ health questions and information on other issues. On the website, you will find all the information you need to set up your appointment and get the necessary forms and papers before you arrive. Check the FAQ section to find out if your insurance is accepted at Great Kids Pediatrics. You can call if you have questions. They are located in the Memorial City Medical Plaza III at 915 Gessner, Suite 350 in Houston. The phone number is 713-932-6261.
Your kids will feel welcome and right at home with the staff at Bootin and Savrick. With three locations, you will always be able to access the help you need. The doctors here care for newborns up to college-aged kids, so you can rest assured that your child will be well cared for. The doctors and staff here make it a priority to get to know each of their patients, and they strive to see them through every malady, including hospital trips if that should become necessary. Bootin and Savrick offer same-day appointments, and there is 24-hour pediatric triage available. They are open on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for your convenience. Their main location is at the Medical Center of University General Hospital 7501 Fannin, Suite 850 in Houston. The phone number is 713-795-9500. Check the website for locations in Pearland and Memorial City and for more information.
Parents and kids alike feel comfortable at Fannin Pediatrics. The board certified pediatricians here are knowledgeable and make a point of putting patients and parents at ease. You will find the doctors here give expert advice on a range of topics. They offer compassionate care geared toward educating parents, along with immediate care for the child. The wait here may be a little longer than expected because they are so busy, but then again, they are so busy because the doctors here are so very good. They are located in Houston, in the heart of the Texas Medical Center. Saturday hours are from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. The address is 6400 Fannin Street, Suite 2110. You can reach them by phone at 713-790-9220.
When you are in need of urgent care during the weekend, Nightlight Pediatrics is there to serve you. They provide services for kids of all ages from infancy through adolescence. If your primary pediatrician isn’t available, you can trust the care at Nightlight Pediatrics. This is a great alternative to the hospital emergency room for non-life threatening emergencies after hours. The doctors here are board certified and understand parents’ concerns regarding evening and weekend health care for their kids. Nightlight is cost effective as well as convenient. You can expect to even pay less than for an emergency room visit. All payments are due at the time of the visit. Weekend hours are from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m both Saturday and Sunday. The phone number for Sugar Land location is 281-325-1010 and call the Cyfair location at 713-957-2020.
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There is nothing like a day at the farm to build some lasting fall memories. Taking a hayride in the crisp autumn air, picking bright orange pumpkins, and enjoying mugs of apple cider are what the season is all about. Perhaps you’d even like to stuff a scarecrow or try your hand at navigating a corn maze. All of these activities and more can be found at farms in and around Houston. Here are ten favorite local ranches that you can visit to get into the spirit of the season.
If you’re looking for organic produce, S&L is the farm for you. The operators follow organic growing methods, so you know that the food you pick will be free of chemical pesticides and genetic modification. You can find pumpkins and summer squash, among many other things. S&L is located in Anderson and open seven days per week. They say that if their gate is open, to “come on in.”
P-6 Farms has a Fall Festival and a very elaborate corn maze every year from October to December. There are many activities here for children such as cow rides, trampolines, and water cannons as well. This farm is in Montgomery, just a short drive from Houston proper.
A trip to Dewberry Farm is almost like a day at an amusement park. Not only will you find typical farm adventures like animals, pumpkins, and a corn maze, but you will also find unique experiences like a corn cannon, a mountain slide, pedal carts, a train, and a giant fort to explore. With over thirty attractions, Dewberry is sure to tucker out the little ones and entertain the whole family. Dewberry Farm is located in Brookshire.
Stationed over in Simonton, Blessington Farms promises adventure and delivers. They have a great Fall Harvest Festival, complete with a hay maze, pumpkin patch, wagon ride, and more. There are slides and climbing structures for the active kiddies. They’ll even be adding fishing to their long list of activities in 2014.
Oil Ranch of Hockley will grant you a free pumpkin with every paid child’s admission, and that’s only the beginning. You will also find hayrides here, and over eighty decorated scarecrows. You and your family can enjoy a game of putt-putt or take a horse ride as well. Afterwards, enjoy one of the Oil Ranch’s famous barbecue sandwiches.
If you’re looking for something different, you’ll find it at TGR Exotics in Spring, Texas. Here, you will find animals not seen on the typical American farm such as camels and kangaroos. You will also be able to take a hayride, participate in crafts, have your face painted, and more.
For the month of October, you can visit Old Time’s pumpkin patch on weekends from 10 am-7 pm. For a very small admission price (just a few dollars), your family can partake in an obstacle course, moon bounce, giant slide, and rides.
Visit Spring Creek Growers in Magnolia to see some animals, pick a pumpkin, and see a tree house and a Native American village. You can even fish here, and partake in their game area.
The fun never ends at Old MacDonald’s Farm in Humble. They offer a wide range of active pursuits, like swimming in their pool, tetherball, and volley ball. Here, you can also ride horses and trains. Be sure to bring the children over to one of Old MacDonald’s super playgrounds after picking your pumpkins.
Be sure to check out Nature Discovery Center’s Fall Festival on October 19th and 20th. At the center, you can pick a pumpkin and partake in the carnival-like atmosphere by enjoying rides and games. Many locals love crossing the “devil’s rope bridge” at the center. You’ll also find tons of vendors and good food. Nature Discovery Center is a nonprofit organization located in Bellaire, Texas.
Having so many amazing farms to visit in the fall almost makes it tough to miss summer. Spending an autumn day on a farm out in the fresh air has that wholesome, down-home feel that Texas life is all about. Since the weather has finally cooled down a bit, you may find your family even more active than before and these farms are the perfect places to stretch those legs and get in some exercise. Pack up the family, or just that special someone, and head out to one of the local farms for some festive fall fun. Don’t forget your camera!
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Whether you are heading out on a first date, planning a proposal, or attempting to have a long overdue night out with your partner, choosing the right restaurant can be a daunting task. However, if you are preparing for your date night in Houston, you should consider yourself lucky. Houston is home to some of the most romantic restaurants in the country. Within Houston, there is no shortage of enchanting establishments to satisfy any appetite and palate. These are ten of the most romantic and charming meal destinations in the city, each of which is sure to make your night that much more special.
At Fabio’s, you can enjoy Old World charm in a romantic, intimate setting. The service is extremely attentive and pleasant. The food is authentic, gourmet Italian and everything is cooked fresh from scratch when you order. The proprietor, Fabio Milano, had the idea to bring together the beauty of Italy with the friendliness of Texas. Most patrons agree that he has succeeded!
Rainbow Lodge is cozy and wooded on the inside, with three beautiful fireplaces to add to its already romantic ambiance. It also offers dreamy views of the nearby creek and citrus grove. They offer exquisite exotic game dishes alongside favorites such as pan seared red snapper on lobster and yellow tomato risotto. The service is hailed as warm and accommodating, providing only the highest quality facility.
The Lexington Grille offers an intimate and chic setting. The food is only the freshest, cooked when you order. The menu is gourmet French and you will find items such as Duck Confit Tamales and Venison Tenderloin with Chili on the menu right next to Snapper Evangeline and Rack of Lamb.
Uchi serves contemporary Japanese cuisine and sushi. You will find many unique dishes here that you can try together. In the dim and sultry dining area, you will be waited on by a staff member who is dedicated to ensuring you have a memorable evening.
At Eddie V’s, you can sit back in its sophisticated dining room and listen to smooth jazz twinkling in the background as you enjoy their creative cocktails. You’ll find a large selection of fish and shellfish on the menu selected from their catches of the day and if you don’t care for seafood, you can choose from among their critically acclaimed aged steaks.
You don’t find much more sophistication in a steakhouse than at Vic & Anthony’s. Engaging with your date at the bar before or after dinner can really set the romantic mood. Here you will find dim lighting and a live piano player. Aside from steaks you will also find fresh seafood and an extensive wine list.
Bistro Alex serves Texas Creole Cuisine in an intimate setting adorned with wood planks and an open kitchen. Bistro Alex is famous for its turtle soup, delicious flat breads, and Shrimp Andouillete. They also have decadent desserts such as chocolate bread pudding and café’ au lait cheesecake.
When you step into Bistro Provence, you will feel as if you have strolled into the French countryside. It’s warm and cozy, filled with sweet-smelling aromas. The décor is one of wood planks and a French color scheme. The food is simple, yet flavorful. If you want your date to be an adventure, experiment with new flavors such as the acclaimed Simmered Red Rabbit Confit with Candied Onions and Prunes. If you want to play it safe, they offer pizzas and soups as well.
Mockingbird Bistro puts out a sophisticated yet funky vibe. This allows it both be high class and cool at the same time. Its food is Texas Provence- think America meets the French Riviera. The Mockingbird has an award winning wine list, but don’t let that scare your wallet because it is also known for being the best value in town.
Romantic doesn’t have to mean stuffy, as evidenced by this laid-back yet breathtaking Italian eatery off Lower Shepherd. Rustic Italian fare, along with an accessible and friendly wine list and high-end gelato come together to make for a date you won’t soon forget.
Now that your appetite is awakened and your heart is inspired, invite your sweetie out for a night on the town in Houston. Be sure to call ahead and make reservations to ensure great seating, though. If you want your night to continue after your meal, consider heading over to Hermann Park for a stroll through the Japanese Gardens or spending the night at the Hotel Zaza, where you can spend the evening having drinks by the luxurious pool or dessert at its eatery, The Monarch.
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A house of worship should be a place where you go to find peace and comfort, learn something about the Word of God and fellowship with other believers. It shouldn’t necessarily be a place that stresses you out, gets you dirty looks and requires that your kids be excluded from services or cloistered in a crowded nursery. When you have children, finding a church that accepts kids and doesn’t mind them staying with their parents during the service is pretty important. Attending a service where kids are welcome and teens feel engaged makes all the difference in a family’s spiritual development. These are ten of the most family friendly places of worship in the Houston area.
The core values of this house of worship center around the Christian faith, worship, discipleship, ministry, stewardship and fellowship. St. Martin’s believes in welcoming both individuals and families who wish to have an opportunity to be a part of a faith community and share in Christian fellowship. School aged kids from sixth grade up will enjoy belonging to one of the Key Groups and getting involved in student ministry designed for their particular grade.
The Vineyard began back in 1975 with a group of students from the University of Houston. Located in the heart of the Heights, this church embraces diversity and focuses on building community that “draws people from all cultures and generations into an authentic, intimate and supernatural life with Jesus Christ.” The Vineyard believes in nurturing a creative children’s community and teaches them about God in age appropriate ways. They have programs for every stage of a child’s life, so you know your children will be brought up in the faith you hold dear.
Children are welcome in the worship service at St. Luke’s. For your convenience, however, they also have child care available. They have family friendly events throughout the year and they welcome you to get involved with church life by sharing your gifts and talents.
This family friendly church is dedicated to helping parents and kids grow strong in their faith. They have lots of opportunities or families to grow in faith all week long, not just on Sundays. Children’s programs are designed for every stage of a child’s growth to help them develop a deep and lasting relationship with Jesus Christ. Families are encouraged to worship, pray and study together for spiritual growth and development.
Notonly do the people at Houston’s First Baptist Church believe in welcoming families into the fold, they also have a special program called Thru the Roof which is a Special Needs Ministry, reaching out to families with members that have children or adults with special needs. From the earliest age, children at Houston’s First Baptist Church learn about the Lord as they are guided through Bible studies beginning with simple stories and songs. You can expect your family to engage in a total ministry to kids and parents at this church.
This all inclusive church has a Special Children’s Ministry that takes place after the Youth Moment in the worship service. Kids attend Children’s Church and learn about the Lord in a setting that’s geared for fun and spiritual education. Your family will feel loved and accepted at this warm and affirming church as they are committed to living out the love of Christ.
The family-focused Religious Education Program at St. Cyril of Alexandria helps parents learn that they are the key in their children’s religious development. Christian values are formed in this family-centered program and classes are offered for families with kids from three years old to fifth graders.
Families are encouraged to worship with their children at this church. They can participate in ways that are comfortable for them. Children can have a part in story, art worship and prayer with parents and other members. At Ecclesia, children are believed to already be part of the larger church community and therefore are encouraged to interact in worship service in ways they feel comfortable.
If you prefer small, child friendly churches consider the Houston Mennonite Church. This progressive faith community is very down-to-earth and there are plenty of children. Come celebrate joy, peace and love at this friendly church.
If your family members prefer the larger more energetic churches, you may want to look into Higher Dimension. This mega-church has ministries that serve all family members. Their mission is “To share Christ with unbelievers, develop believers into disciples and transform disciples into leaders.” They also teach children that God made each one, loves each one and that Jesus wants to be a forever-friend.
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When it comes to hiring a nanny, many parents are interested in having a trial period with a candidate before making their job offer official. This often stems from the belief that a trial period offers them some special advantages. However, this belief is most often based on a misunderstanding of what a trial period is and isn’t designed to do.
Before you consider requiring a trial period, you’ll want to separate fact from fiction and be sure you’re familiar with these 6 debunked trial period myths.
1. Trial Periods Are Part of the Screening Process
Trial periods aren’t designed to be part of the nanny screening process; however they are often incorrectly used as such. Trial periods are designed to test the abilities of the candidate that the parents have extended an offer of employment to and to provide an opportunity to confirm that the candidate is able to do everything she said she could and agreed to in the pre-employment screening process. When trial periods are used correctly, they can be very beneficial to both a nanny and family. For example, if a family really wants a live-in nanny, but the candidate they wish to hire has only worked as a live-out nanny, having a trial period makes sense so that both the nanny and family can be sure the arrangement will work out.
2. Trial Periods Are a Great Way to Secure Temporary Care
Trial periods aren’t designed to provide an easy back-up care solution. Parents should never settle for a candidate to “hold them over” until a better candidate comes along. Instead, trial periods should only be considered for a candidate who parents have extended an offer of employment to and have a desire to commit to a working relationship with. If an agency offers a replacement policy, offering a candidate a position with the intent of simply requesting a replacement if it doesn’t work out is undermining the search and pre-employment screening process.
3. Trial Periods Relieve Parents and Nannies From Responsibility
Even during the trial period, the candidate becomes an employee. If the offer of employment is accepted and a trial period is mutually agreed upon, both the parents and nanny have entered into an employment arrangement and nanny/family relationship. Regardless of how the candidate was referred to them, as always, parents must accept responsibilities for their hiring decisions and should only terminate an employee after trying to reconcile the relationship and correct any job performance issues, as long as the children’s safety and family’s security is not at risk.
4. Trial Periods Ensure That You Aren’t Committed
Many parents believe a trial period is their only opportunity to end a working relationship with a nanny if things don’t work out as planned. This is simply not true. A written work agreement can outline reasons and the process for termination and in states where an employee works at-will; one can virtually be terminated anytime, as long as the reason for termination isn’t illegal. The bottom line is that a family is never stuck with a nanny. Terminating an employee is always an option.
5. Trial Periods Don’t Require Payment
Some parents believe that they can test-drive a nanny for free under the guise of “seeing how it goes” before making a commitment. Most often parents will ask a nanny to consent to a trial period before making the job offer official and wrongly consider it part of the interview process. Nannies should always be paid their typical hourly wage rate when working a trial period. The terms of the trial period, including salary, should be discussed and put into writing prior to it commencing.
6. Trial Periods Provide a Guarantee
Anyone can be who you want them to be for a short-time and chances are, if there are going to problems in the working relationship they won’t rear their ugly heads until the relationship is firmly established.
Like with any employee, there is never a guarantee that a candidate will work out, however if parents invest the time required to properly screen and interview candidates, take the advice of a reputable placement specialist, and draft a written work agreement with a potential hire, the chances of the relationship working out is in their favor.
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