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Houston is known for its diverse culinary scene, and there’s certainly no shortage of restaurants to choose from when dining out. From deep southern comfort food to ethnic food that suits any and every palate, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re craving when dining out in the big city. But what if you’re looking for healthy fare that will satisfy your taste buds without wrecking your waistline? Fear not, calorie-conscious diners, because Houston has you covered there, too! Check out these 10 restaurants that are known for serving up meals loaded with flavor and easy on the calories.
Snap Kitchen’s motto is one that any healthy diner can get behind: Eat right. Feel great. Live well! And boy do they deliver. Patrons can order a variety of fresh salads that are mixed to order while you wait or you can choose pre-portioned meals that come in small, medium or large containers based on your hunger. You can also snag fresh pressed juices and even do one of their juice cleanses. With six locations around the Houston area, you’re sure to find a Snap Kitchen close to you.
Zoe’s Kitchen stands by a commitment to freshness when it comes to their meals, and has fresh ingredients delivered daily so you’re guaranteed only the best. This unique Mediterranean restaurant doesn’t even have a microwave on the premise! Their food philosophy? “If it wasn’t food 100 years ago, it’s not food today.” Visit one of their 12 locations around the Houston area and surrounding cities to taste their flavorful, healthy dishes.
For a healthy meal fast look no further than My Fit Foods. With 25 locations in Houston, there are no shortages of places to drop in for quick, healthy fare. The meals at My Fit Foods are perfectly portioned out into to-go containers so you can just grab and go, bringing a healthy twist to traditional fast food. The restaurants even have nutrition coaches you can talk with to help determine your dietary needs. Looking for a way to kick start your weight loss? Try their 21 day challenge, where chefs and nutrition coaches will design a customized food plan for you to follow for three straight weeks.
If you’re looking for fast, healthy fare in the Katy area, you’re in for a treat with Good to Go. Another healthy twist on fast food, this restaurant’s menu is packed with delicious and nutritious choices. They’ll even customize a food plan for you and your family if you’re looking to embark on the journey to health. Craving a fresh-pressed juice? Good to Go will blend one up for you, either from their juice menu or based on your own fruit and veggie preferences. “Doing good to our bodies and our earth.” Now that’s a good tagline!
This quirky café with its trademark dog is native to Houston and known for its stellar breakfast and brunch options. But that’s not all it offers; you can dine in for lunch, dinner and even a good glass of wine, too – they even have their own private label wine! And if you’re saving all your calories for a decadent dessert, well, you’ve come to the right place. After dining on anything from salads to homemade lasagna to vegetarian fare, try a slice of their big carrot cake or the best chocolate chip cookie. One thing’s for sure, you’ll definitely enjoy your dining experience at Barnaby’s.
Tucked away in the heart of Upper Kirby, this little restaurant is a hidden gem that’s been serving up the Houston area since 1972. In fact, if you didn’t know it was there, you probably wouldn’t even notice it, but once you dine here, you’re sure to come back. What started as a strictly vegetarian restaurant has evolved over the years and the menu is now filled with unique foods, craft beers and wines, so there’s something to please everyone. And if you’re looking for a great little venue to hang out at during brunch at on the weekends, Hobbit Café is a must.
The self-proclaimed “greenest restaurant in Texas,” Ruggles Green has made its mark on the healthy eating market in Houston by serving food made only from the highest quality, organic, local ingredients. They’ve even been awarded 4 Star Certification by the Green Restaurant Association. Customers can enjoy a variety of appetizers, salads, wood-fired pizzas and more with the knowledge that the food they’re consuming is fresh and healthy. You can even indulge in a glass of organic wine!
The concept behind Harvest Organic Grille is simple – provide patrons “…with a delicious dining experience comprised of healthy, natural, sustainable, and fresh ingredients.” Following a strict diet or suffering from a food allergy? That’s no problem here, as Harvest Organic Grille offers an extensive list of gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan and dairy-free options.
Anyone looking for a restaurant that is 100% vegan needs to look no further than Pepper Tree Veggie Cuisine. Known for putting a vegan spin on classic Chinese dishes, diners can enjoy unique meals like Kung Pao vegan chicken and sesame vegan chicken. The restaurant is set up buffet style, so you can pick and choose from a variety of dishes, but also offers entrees off a standard menu if buffets aren’t your cup of tea.
Despite the name, you aren’t limited to only salads at Salad Extraveganza – you can enjoy custom made wraps, too. Salads and wraps are custom built for you from over 70 different toppings, making each creation uniquely your own. The restaurant is also known for its bright, funky, colorful décor, and they even offer free yoga classes every Saturday morning, marrying health food, fitness and fun – and isn’t that what being healthy is all about?
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A child’s first visit to the dentist can bring out the worst in him or her. The fear of the unknown can spark cries, whines and even refusals to sit in that big, scary dentist chair. Learning how to calm your child’s temperament, put those fears to rest and preparing him or her for the first trip can make the experience much more bearable for you and your little one.
When to Schedule an Appointment
Many parents may be surprised to know that a child’s first visit to the dentist should be by the first birthday. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that children visit a pediatric dentist by age one, especially those who are at risk of early childhood cavities. National studies continue to show that pre-school aged children are showing more cavities in recent history. By the age of four, more than one in four children in the United States have had at least one cavity, many developing as early as 2 years old.
Parents must decide for themselves, in consultation with a dentist, when it is best to make the first trip; however, according to Christy Monson, retired family therapist and author of “Love, Hugs and Hope When Scary Things happen,” as soon as children are preschool or kindergarten age, they are old enough to understand that dentists will help them protect and care for their teeth.
“Give the child the experience of visiting with the dentist so he or she will know that he or she is a friend,” suggests Monson.
Prepare for the Visit
Before asking your child to sit in the dentist’s chair, prepare him or her for the visit. Ask your librarian for books about visiting the dentist, suggests Monson, or check out any videos the library may have. An Internet search may also reveal videos about visiting the dentist, too, in addition to any resources your dentist may have on hand.
“When you have gathered your information, talk with your child, read the books and watch the videos,” says Monson. “Children do much better if they know what’s coming and exactly what will happen to them.”
Instead of focusing on potential pain the child may endure, focus on the positives. “Let them know the positives about their visit so they have something to look forward to,” suggests Monson. “If they need more intrusive work beyond just a check-up, then discuss the details of that experience at the time it’s going to happen, not before.”
Before the first visit, it may also help calm your child if you play out a scenario so he or she knows what to expect. Make it a game and ask your child to be the patient and you play the role as the dentist. Count your little one’s teeth or make up a silly song as you examine his or her mouth. Break out a toothbrush and have your child show “the dentist” how to brush those teeth. You can even hold up a mirror to show your child how the dentist will look at his or her mouth.
Keep Calm During the Visit
As you walk into the dentist’s office, it’s important to not make a big deal about the experience so your child is not filled with anxiety and nervousness. Instead, remind him or her of the fun games you played in preparation for the dentist and the discussion you had about how dentists keep your teeth healthy.
If your little one shows signs of distress, Monson suggests the following relaxation techniques:
- Deep breathing
- Daydreaming to keep their minds in a positive place
- Give them a stuffed animal to hug
- Determine a fun activity to enjoy after the appointment so the child has something fun to look forward to
Positive phrases will help calm your child as he or she climbs into the dentist’s chair, too. Phrases such as “the dentist is your friend” and “the dentist will keep your teeth healthy” will help reassure your little one during the visit. “You will want to use phrases that speak directly to the child’s fears,” says Monson. “Discuss the things the child is afraid of and create positive statements to counteract those fears.”
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The great state of Texas may never have been part of the United States, had it not been for one man – Sam Houston. The city of Houston, Texas is the fourth largest in the United States. Spanning 634 square miles, Houston is home to a number of large parks and natural areas, which provide the ideal setting for trail walkers. So if you want to take in the sights and sounds of all that Houston’s natural landscape has to offer, take the time to visit these parks and attractions for some of the most spectacular walking trails in Texas.
A 1,503-acre park and home to the Seymour Lieberman Trail, Memorial Park in Houston is one of the most beautifully historical sites in the city. Treetop ravines provide a spectacular view of the park, where safety is always paramount. The trail is ideal for hikers, couples and families alike. Currently, the city of Houston is working on improving trail conditions to extend access to other areas of the park.
With construction underway on the Centennial Gardens, Hermann Park provides the ideal setting for a walking trail. The park is home to over 8,000 trees, and there is an ongoing conservation program in place, aimed at further reforestation. Take a rest with many of the events on offer, including the Hermann Park “Art in the Park,” “Evening in the Park” and “Hats in the Park” events.
Houston is home to some incredible historical locations, including the Glenwood Cemetery. The cemetery offers visitors a unique walking trail experience, steeped in Houston history and architecture. Going back to the 19th century, visitors will have the chance to see headstones and monuments spanning over centuries. The rolling landscape is the only one of its kind in Houston, and the breathtaking views keep visitors coming back again and again.
One hundred and twenty-four acres of beautiful country park are at your disposal when you visit Buffalo Bayou. The walks are long and hilly, but you will not regret your visit to the park when you take in the breathtaking views. There is a full trail map available for the park, so you don’t need to worry about getting lost if you prefer solo adventures. For more information on the park, pick up a guide from the Houston Visitors center or search online.
For true nature lovers, the Houston Arboretum is a must-visit location. Organized bike, children’s and nature programs are available throughout the year. If you prefer to go it alone, the trails are all clearly marked out so you can plan your route in the way that suits you best. There are also a number of classes offered by staff members at the Houston Arboretum, which you can sign up for online or at the visitor’s center upon arrival.
Red Buckeye Trail is one of Houston’s best. With paths cutting right through nature’s backyard, but without disturbing the local wildlife’s habitats, the trail is an adventure that you’ll not experience anywhere else. Lakes, rivers and grazing deer are just some of the sights you will see, so make sure to take a camera along to capture the memories.
Bird watchers, butterfly enthusiasts and campers alike will get a real kick out of Galveston State Park. Once you get settled in, get ready for a hike of a lifetime through the bayside salt marsh and prairie. There are plenty of other activities to keep you occupied, too, including kayaking, swimming, fishing and much more. Galveston State Park is open daily to visitors and campers, with prices starting from $15 – $35 per night for campers.
Sam Houston was the man primarily responsible for bring Texas into the United States, so if you’re taking a walking trail in the Houston area it would be almost rude not to visit his forest namesake. The Sam Houston National Forest offers a number of trails for hikers, cyclists and motorcyclists. The main trail is one hundred and twenty-nine miles long, so make sure you are well stocked with water, food and necessary hiking supplies. All segments of the trail are easily accessible, but because the trail is aimed at hikers who want a truly natural experience, there are no restroom or stop facilities along the way. Sam Houston National Park is a challenging trail, but it’s well worth the effort for the unique scenery, spectacular views and rich history.
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There are several sound reasons to get your child involved in playing organized sports. Physical activity is just one of them, though it is an important reason. Due to the draw of computer games and high-tech toys, it’s not always easy to convince kids to move away from a sedentary lifestyle in favor of one more active. The modern child may spend more time browsing the Internet and using social media sites than playing actively, which is where participation in organized sports can prove to be a useful tool. Kids who play sports learn the benefits of physical activity and are urged to participate in a group activity, learning valuable life lessons along the way.
Getting kids involved in sports leagues not only gets them up and moving, but also teaches them how to work and play with others. Practicing discipline is a major plus to playing and participating in a youth sports league. Kids can learn how to be a good team member, along with developing leadership skills. They can also learn all about goal-setting and creative problem solving. Communication skills can increase as kids learn to work with their teammates to achieve a common goal. Lifelong friendships can be born and nurtured both on and off the playing fields.
Houston has plenty of opportunities for youth in sports. There are a wide variety of leagues available for kids to join. If you just want your child to be active and have fun while learning a sport, those types of leagues are available. It’s not always about winning, either. In fact, some leagues are designed for kids to just have fun and be able to safely and fully participate in a team sport without concerns of wins or losses. These are a few of the sports leagues for kids that can be found in the Houston area.
This franchise for youth sports caters to kids as young as three years old up to seventeen years of age. Coaches are certified, and a strong emphasis is placed on good sportsmanship. Kids will learn new skills weekly at i9 sports. Opportunities to be a part of a league and participate in camps and programs are available to young members. Everything about i9 sports is designed to help your child be successful, whether playing a sport or just going about daily activities. Positive reinforcements are provided for developing skills like listening, fair play and best efforts. Sports offered include flag football, soccer, basketball and baseball.
The youth leagues offered by the Parks and Rec Department provide free fun for the kids. You don’t have to pay for the expert coaching, uniforms or any of the equipment. Your kids will have a safe, well-supervised playing environment. The youth sports professionals have lots of experience, and assistance is provided by volunteers and staff. Your kids can participate in any of the programs offered including aquatics, baseball, golf, tennis, track and field or soccer.
Family involvement is encouraged with YMCA youth leagues. Healthy competition which emphasizes teamwork and participation over winning is at the core of the youth program at the Y. Many coaches are parents volunteering their time. Get involved with your child’s league by becoming a team parent. Kids are welcome to join the team for baseball, T-ball, basketball, NFL flag football, soccer, softball, swimming or volleyball.
Get your kids started in one of the world’s favorite sports. Little League baseball and softball are sports that are truly played worldwide. Little League has been around for decades, teaching kids the beloved sport of baseball, helping them learn to be disciplined, teaching them teamwork and helping them attain a high level of physical fitness. Your kids can take part in this organization and be part of a worldwide network of players. There are several leagues in the Houston area in which you can get your child involved.
Kids from as young as four years old up to age eighteen can take advantage of the Houston Youth Sports Association. This non-profit organization specifically helps kids who have challenges accessing other sports leagues. The leagues associated with HYSA include cheerleading, baseball and T-ball, basketball, softball, tennis and soccer.
Many churches are associated with WHCSA, a league that helps kids build their skills through compassionate competition. Available sports include softball and baseball, volleyball, golf, soccer and tennis. Though many of these leagues are based in a local church, they are open to all the kids in the community. You child will not need to get a physical to play in a WHCSA league. Players and parents are expected to abide by the code of ethics and behavior guidelines set forth by the league.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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