Woodlands Family Magazine

Put yourself in their Shoes! Their World – Universe!

2010-10-04T11:14:00.000-07:00

UNITED WE STAND----STAND UP FOR AUTISM!
By: Jocelyn Plowey- of Woodlands,Texas

The way I see it – as having a daughter on the Autism spectrum! We may not understand (fully) the world that surrounds us. The concepts of the whole universe. Nor do they understand the world we are locked in as how and why we processes and precedes things differently; our thoughts and actions, which may seems strange to the universe!

We are aware of certain things- some we can’t control, some we are fixed upon. Our mind operates in an unusual way, passes quickly before our eyes as we foresee the ‘unexplainable’ behavior, patterns of doing things, our incredible minds and amazing talent beyond our expectations. Why we fix on things in a specific way, which you may have no interest in. We have a peculiar way of using pictures of shapes and sizes to help us visualize things that surrounds us. How complex our mind is, as causing ‘awareness’around the world. How different our lifestyle is, as we adjust in the lifestyle of society. A society which is now aware of acceptance to our needs in embracing who we are, as we are human beings which require the same needs as you; but shown to us in a differ way. We too have a voice for changes! Changes we can have to help us, or changes we may not require, as this is who we are, set in our own autistic way! The way we portray things differently. The question as ‘why’?

Why is it so difficult for others to see, we can accomplish things in our own way, a different approach! We may need some guidance, a helping hand, and a shoulder to lie on, just as you do too! Life is a mystery for all of us, to seek the best to suit our needs. The world has its problems and solutions, some can be fixed, while others remained unfixed. We do not have all its answers, as to why things are the way they are. The key is to unlock its causes.

The unknown! This is the reason we are seeking answers, going global! We can just rely on ourselves, our intuition or the help of others to live side by side as we strive for success under one nation. The Universe-The World as it is today…Autism is going global!!!

Tips for Embracing Anti-Bordeom Month!

2010-07-27T08:17:00.000-07:00

As you may know July is Anti-Boredom Month. To encourage learning through fun, Target and Search Institute, a Minneapolis nonprofit, have developed a summer-long series of boredom-busting learning activities that give kids a mental and physical workout. This series of tips is one of the many ways Target is inspiring parents and caring adults to nurture a child's love of learning all summer long.Beat boredom with a few tips to help awaken imagination and spark curiosity in kids:

Get lost! Pile into the minivan and just drive, with no destination in mind. Treat it like a grand adventure: discover a new town, find an untouched patch of nature, grab lunch at a roadside diner. Let your kids decide when it's time to stop somewhere. Wherever you land, you'll find something or somewhere brand new to you. Why It Matters: Children are naturally curious about anything and everything. So when you engage them in activities that stretch their imaginations and let them explore, they soak it up like little sponges! One study even showed that boys who had many chances to explore and experiment in preschool scored higher on creativity tests several years later. Every excursion brings new experiences and expands kids' view of the world, so hit the road! (Recommended for all ages)

Make a splash! Fill buckets or the kitchen sink with colored water (just add a couple drops of food coloring), strap on an apron, and let your kids get wet 'n' wild. For toys, use kitchen tools such as funnels, strainers, paper cups, and plastic baggies. Why It Matters: The more your kids play, the smarter they get! The American Academy of Pediatrics says playing builds kids' creativity and imagination, dexterity, physical strength, and healthy brain development. And when you just let them be, kids learn to work in groups, negotiate, and problem-solve as they play! (Recommended for ages 3-5)

Create a coloring book! Budding artists can use black ink on white paper to illustrate summer scenes, race cars, or whatever they love to draw. Make copies, staple, and distribute to friends and family! Host a contest with a small prize, encouraging people to send back their fully-colored pages. Why It Matters: Art not only colors your kids' world, but makes them better learners. A series of recent studies by the Dana Foundation showed that when kids experiment with art, they have improved attention spans and a better understanding of what they learn at school. (Recommended for ages 6-9)

Get your groove on! Ask tech-savvy kids to make a summer soundtrack of cool songs. They'll love introducing you to new music, and you'll get an insight into the artists they love. Then, risk embarrassment by dancing your heart out! Why It Matters: Learning to play music has been shown to improve school-aged kids' IQs, but even just listening to music has positive effects. For instance, research shows that when children listen to classical music, the right hemispheres of their brains practically light up, boosting things like memory and creativity. Plus, listening to music can boost the immune system and decrease stress. That's good for the whole family! (Recommended for ages 10-13)

The tips can be accessed through the Play + Learn tab on Target's Facebook page: facebook.com/Target

The Wizard of Oz Starts This Weekend!

2010-07-13T11:12:00.000-07:00

Class Act Productions is off to see the wizard in their summer production of The Wizard of Oz at the Nancy Bock Center for Performing Arts in The Woodlands. In the Royal Shakespeare Company's version of The Wizard of Oz, based on the 1939 MGM movie, we meet Dorothy Gale of Kansas who, like so many girls her age, dreams of what lies over the rainbow. One day a twister hits her farm and carries her away to another world. Join Dorothy and Toto as they travel with the Scarecrow, Tin Man, Cowardly Lion, and the many colorful inhabitants of Oz through the realm of Dorothy's imagination. Through her many fantastic adventures, Dorothy grows in her appreciation of her family and friends and ultimately realizes there's no place like home! This performance provides a wonderful outing for families and creates a superb opportunity to introduce young children to musical theater.

The Wizard of Oz will be presented July 16, 17, 23 & 24 at 7:30 p.m., and a matinee performance will be held July 25 at 2:30 p.m. Regular reserved seat tickets are $22.00, and senior and student tickets are $17.00. Tickets can be purchased online at www.classactproductions.org or by calling 281-292-6779.

CLASS ACT CARES - Please join the cast members of The Wizard of Oz in helping Toto's friends at the Humane Society of Montgomery County. We will be collecting donations during rehearsals and performances. Your contribution to this cause will be much appreciated. Class Act Productions is a non-profit performing arts group that provides education, training, and participation in professional-quality musical theatre productions for students in The Woodlands, Texas and surrounding areas. By participating, students learn teamwork and responsibility as well as the technical, performance, and artistic elements of musical theatre.

13th Annual Red, Hot & Blue Food Drive to Benefit The Woodlands

2010-07-01T21:52:00.000-07:00

The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau and Hewitt are joining together for a Patriotic Food Drive to benefit Interfaith of The Woodlands.

On Sunday, July 4, 2010, bring non-perishable food items including canned items, soup, pasta, snack foods, cooking helpers, protein items, condiments, desserts, cereal, personal care items, household items, and diapers to the Hewitt Associate Booth at the 13th Annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival before the Fireworks Extravaganza at Town Green Park and Waterway Square from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Also, you can also drop your can goods off at The Town Center Garage and the Six Pines Drive corner lot at Lake Robbins. Bring 5 cans or more and park for free at either of these parking spots.

“Interfaith of The Woodlands is grateful to have been selected as the Red, Hot & Blue Festival Food Drive recipient. With so many individuals and families approaching Interfaith for food this summer, this opportunity will help fill the shelves of our food pantry and truly make a difference. Interfaith is thankful for the community’s ongoing support,” says Dr. Ann Snyder, President and CEO of Interfaith.

Hewitt Associates is a new sponsor to the annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival held each year on July 4 which features live entertainment, Hot Dog and Watermelon eating contests, activities for the kids, Fireworks and much more!

“As one of the largest employers in The Woodlands, Hewitt has always looked for the right causes in the community to align our associate volunteer efforts with financial sponsorship support,” says Tom Earle, Hewitt Associates Operations Leader. “With nearly 1,500 associates in The Woodlands office, Hewitt's associates are active with many volunteer efforts focused on areas of education and human services. We are excited for the opportunity to use the Red, Hot & Blue event to highlight the needs of the Interfaith Food Pantry and to collect food items and money to support their needs.”

For more information, a complete schedule of activities, maps and up-to-date parking information, visit www.redhotblue.org or call 281-363-2447. And for more information on other giving opportunities visit www.woodlandsinterfaith.org.

The Woodlands Township Proclaims Joel Deretchin Day

2010-06-22T08:51:00.000-07:00

The Woodlands Township Board of Directors proclaimed June 21, 2010 Joel Deretchin for his many years of service, dedication and leadership to The Woodlands. The Woodlands Township Chairman Bruce Tough, left, presented Joel Deretchin with a proclamation honoring Mr. Deretchin's many years of service and leadership in The Woodlands and proclaiming Monday, June 21, 2010, as Joel Deretchin Day in The Woodlands.

"The Board of Directors of The Woodlands Township commends Joel L. Deretchin for his countless contributions to the creation of a lasting foundation for The Woodlands community, thereby making The Woodlands one of the most emulated planned communities in the world," said Bruce Tough, Chairman of the Board, The Woodlands Township.

During Mr. Deretchin's more than 33 years of service to The Woodlands community, he worked for The Woodlands Development Company and its predecessors, and was involved in every aspect of community development in The Woodlands, from governance, education, social and religious services to non-profit and philanthropic organizations and economic development.For many years, Mr. Deretchin led the Community Associations, having served as president of The Woodlands Community Association, The Woodlands Association, The Woodlands Commercial Owners Association, The Woodlands Community Service Corporation and The Woodlands Fire Department. During this time, he also oversaw the development of the award-winning parks and recreation system in The Woodlands.

In addition, Mr. Deretchin helped found 18 of the 19 Conroe ISD schools in the Woodlands, The University Center, The John Cooper School and the Villager newspaper. He also chaired many not-for-profit boards, including Interfaith of The Woodlands and Montgomery County Youth Services. He was the founding president of Congregation Beth Shalom.

He has been named Citizen of the Year, a Hometown Hero and a Paul Harris Fellow, and CISD named the Joel L. Deretchin Elementary School in his honor.

"His leadership and dedication to The Woodlands has truly been outstanding," Chairman Tough said. "The Woodlands is a world-class community and much of this can be attributed to his vision, his leadership, his commitment, and his love of The Woodlands."

Presenting Sponsor Named for 13th Annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival in The Woodlands

2010-06-14T11:18:00.000-07:00

Ellis & Ellis has signed on as the anchor sponsor for the 13th Annual Red, Hot & Blue Festival and Fireworks Extravaganza.

This is Ellis & Ellis’ first year to be the presenting sponsor of the Red, Hot & Blue Festival. The company is located in The Woodlands Town Center.

“We love our country and we love The Woodlands and are excited to play a special part in our July 4th celebrations. We want to do our part to help bring back the pride in our country,” said Byron Ellis, Private Wealth Advisor for Ellis & Ellis.

Following a full evening of festivities at Waterway SquareTM and Town Green Park, festival goers will be treated to one of the region’s largest fireworks display beginning at dusk.

Each year, the Red, Hot & Blue festival is produced by The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau and made free and open to the public thanks to generous sponsors. For more information on this year’s festivities, visit http://www.redhotblue.org/ or call 281-363-2447.

Vacation Watch Program in Montgomery and Harris Counties

2010-05-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

By Nelda Luce Blair, The Woodlands Township & Sheriff Tommy Gage, Montgomery County

Summer is here and this is a great time to think about a few things to keep you and your neighbors proactive in deterring individuals from criminal activities.

Summer is a time when you and many of your neighbors might be traveling, and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and Harris County Constable Precinct #4 can help you if they know when you plan to be away.

Both offer a Vacation Watch program, and it is as simple as placing a phone call letting them know when you will be out of town. Montgomery County residents can request a Vacation Watch from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office by calling 936-442-7797. Harris County residents can call 281-376-3472 to request a Vacation Watch with Harris County Constable, Precinct #4.

Make sure you have timed lights, close your garage doors, turn on alarms, stop newspaper deliveries and lock your doors and windows.

If you do not keep the porch light on at night because you are concerned about the cost of electricity, consider installing a motion detector light, which is an effective but less expensive way to provide light. But no matter what method you use to get the lights on, the electricity will be a lot less expensive than the cost of repairing a broken door or window and replacing any items stolen by a thief. In fact, former thieves have told law enforcement that when choosing homes to burglarize, they would avoid homes with good outdoor lighting.

Summer is also a time when school is out and creates an opportunity for criminal mischief. Captain Andrew Eason who is in charge of the Sheriff’s Office in The Woodlands urges individuals to report suspicious activities immediately.

“Residents know what is normal activity and what is not normal activity,” he said. “We like to know what is happening in the neighborhoods and rely on individuals to let us know. If you are in immediate need, always call 9-1-1. But if you see something out of the ordinary that you are questioning, please give us a call.”

Suspicious activity can also be reported at the telephone numbers above. When you see suspicious activity, please make a note of the following:

· For vehicles: make, model and license plate
· For individuals: clothing, hair color, age, sex, height, weight, tattoos

Everyone working together can make a big difference. For more tips on how you can make your home safer, contact The Woodlands Township Neighborhood Services Department at neighbor@thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov or 281-210-3800.

Finally, if you have information about a crime, call Crime Stoppers at 1.800.392.STOP (7867) or call the Sheriff’s Office directly. Crime Stopper Tips are anonymous and can also be made through the Montgomery County Crime Stoppers web page at www.montgomerycountycrimestoppers.org.

Scholarship Opportunity for High School Juniors in The Woodlands

2010-05-19T07:21:00.000-07:00

What would our world look like if high school sports produced individuals dedicated to improving themselves, their teammates and their sports as a whole? We will soon know the answer, as Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) expands to the Houston area the highly-successful Triple-Impact Competitor Scholarship Program sponsored by Deloitte LLP and the Thrive Foundation for Youth.

The program will deliver $1,000 college scholarships to the four current Houston-area high school juniors (two boys and two girls) who best exemplify PCA’s model of the Triple-Impact Competitor:

Personal Mastery -- Making oneself better
Leadership -- Making one’s teammates better
Honoring the Game -- Making the game better.

Students may apply through May 31, 2010 at www.positivecoach.org/scholarship/application.aspx. Students in the following Houston-area counties are eligible: Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery and Waller. Scholarships will be presented at an Autumn, 2010 event in the Houston area.

“At Deloitte, ‘doing the right thing’ is what guides our people every day,” said San Francisco-based Vice Chairman and Northern Pacific Regional Managing Partner Mark Edmunds of Deloitte LLP, who piloted the scholarship program in the San Francisco Bay Area and is driving its expansion to other Deloitte offices. “PCA’s Triple-Impact Competitor Scholarship Program encourages student-athletes to strive for the same standard, and we are proud to support a program that cultivates this hallmark in these future leaders.”

About Positive Coaching Alliance
Founded as a non-profit within the Stanford University Athletic Department in 1998, Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) has the mission of “transforming youth sports so sports can transform youth.” To that end, PCA has conducted more than 7,000 live group workshops nationwide for more than 400,000 youth and high school sports leaders, coaches and parents. Workshop attendees have helped create a positive, character-building youth sports environment for more than 3 million youth athletes. PCA’s partnership network includes more than 1,700 youth sports organizations, cities and schools. In 2010, PCA will conduct roughly 1,300 live, group workshops across the U.S., while assisting thousands of other individuals via online courses at www.PositiveCoach.org.

Stamp Out Hunger Day is this Saturday!

2010-05-05T07:18:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 8 is “Stamp Out Hunger Day” whereby Letter Carriers from the local Post Office pick up non-perishable food donations as they deliver mailthat Saturday. If you wish to make a donation, leave your food items by yourmailbox for your Carrier to collect. Though a nation-wide food drive, thereare 9 postal offices in Montgomery County that will be participating anddistributing food to the Montgomery County Food Bank.“

Last year a total of 23,418 pounds of food was collected,” Doris Golemonsaid, executive director for the Food Bank. “This provides a tremendousboost for us as the need is so great in Montgomery County. Almost 40%percent of the people we serve through our food pantries are children underthe age of 18. Kids are going to school hungry.”

The Montgomery County Food Bank is a non-profit center for fooddistribution. The agency procures donated surplus food and transfers allfood items in usable quantities to 39 non-profit agencies and 24 schools inMontgomery County.Founded in 1985, the Montgomery County Food Bank has distributed more than10 million pounds of food. Agency food pantries distribute food to more than25,000 individuals per month.

“We hope everyone turns out for this food drive by leaving a small bag ofnon-perishable food items next to their mail box,” Golemon said. “I canguarantee, whatever you leave by your mail box, will be on someone’s dinnertable in the very near future.”

For more information on the Montgomery County Food Bank call (936) 539-6686.

Connecting Families Unveils New Web Site

2010-04-26T19:31:00.000-07:00

Diana Boulanger, executive director for Connecting Families, celebrates with students from University of Houston who developed the web site for the nonprofit agency. Dr. Carl Scott, professor at University of Houston and who oversees the Project Management classes, in conjunction with Executive Service Corp, assisted the agency in redesigning their web site to reflect their programs and needs. Connecting Families educates and empowers parents in stressful times to preserve the overall health of the family and to help parents avoid situations that can be damaging to children. Pictured are Diana Boulanger with students from Dr. Scott's Project Management class: Sean Hussain, Nasir Ali, Shahzad Ali. Not pictured, but part of the team were Samuel Pulukuri and Hasan Gopalani. Connecting Families is located at 812 West Dallas, Suite 150, in Conroe. They agency can be reached and donations can be made by going to www.resourcesforparents.org or by calling 936-441-4733.

2010-03-29T10:14:00.000-07:00

Local author having book launch party for new book!
Free to the public!

Saturday April 3
11:00 am
7 Acre Wood (Carrie's Coffee Mill)
4401 N Frazier St
Conroe, TX 77303

Local home school mother turned author, Lynn Marie White, will speak on her new book, Because, I Love You. Those needing a boost in faith or just a little reassurance in their lives are encouraged to attend. This devotional style book has been an inspiration to many already. A booksigning will follow the brief message of the undying love that God has for you and your loved ones. Coffee and desserts will be served. You can read more about her book at http://becauseiloveyouwebsite.com

LSS Foster Care Offices Opening in Conroe

2010-03-08T18:40:00.000-08:00

Due to the significant number of children in urgent need of foster care placement, Lutheran Social Services of the South Inc. (LSS) is opening three new foster care offices in Texas to meet this increasing demand. LSS has staff in place to begin matching and training foster parents in Conroe, Texarkana, and the Bryan-College Station area.

LSS currently has 14 foster care offices throughout the state and cares for more than 850 foster children daily. “We are now in the process of establishing new addresses in these areas, and are determining where we can best locate our offices to serve the greatest number of available families,” said Sonya Thompson, senior vice president of Child and Family Services for LSS. “Right now we are holding foster care orientation meetings and making those in the areas aware that we can serve their placement needs immediately. We are also hoping to encourage anyone who has been thinking about fostering to call us for additional information and begin the screening and training process.”

Potential foster parents should call 877-747-8110 and ask for Terry Hernandez in Bryan-College Station; Kimberly Greene in Conroe; and Jeni Gannon in Texarkana, TX. According to Thompson, there is a particular need for foster parents who are able to work with teenagers, and provide homes for sibling groups and primary medical needs children.

Lutheran Social Services of the South is a multifaceted social services agency based in Austin that serves more than 45,000 people throughout Texas and Louisiana each year. Learn more about LSS’s award-winning foster care program at www.lsss.org.

Low Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic Opens to Serve North Harris and Montgomery County

2010-02-10T09:59:00.000-08:00

Adopt a Cat is holding a Grand Opening Celebration for their new clinic Spay/Houston after many struggles and road blocks to opening. This is a high quality, low cost spay/neuter clinic for cats, dogs, and rabbits in the Greenspoint area. The clinic is located at 412F North Sam Houston Parkway East (on Beltway 8 between Hardy Toll Road and I-45). This grand opening will be held on Saturday February 20th. Stop by from 3:00-6:00pm and take a tour and participate in our raffle. From 6:00pm to 9:00pm, we are celebrating with food, drinks and entertainment for “Mardi Paws”! Come in your masks, Mardi Gras attire and 'Laissez les bon temps rouler'-Let the good times roll!

This spay/neuter clinic will be performing in excess of 20,000 sterilizations per year in order to help reduce the number of unwanted animals eventually ending up our community shelters. The clinic offers a variety of discounted services over and above the spay/neuter services including vaccines, heartworm testing, micro chipping, heartworm prevention, flea prevention, and worming. Spay/Houston also believes in community education and outreach and will continue to focus on spay/neuter education in the community.

The scarce resources available for low cost spay/neuter do not correlate to the number of residents in North Harris and Montgomery counties. This clinic is modeled after a clinic in North Carolina which dropped the euthanasia rate in local shelters 70%. There are no income requirements to use this clinic. The clinic needs to reach capacity so that they can eventually expand to 7 days a week. “We want to be performing 80 surgeries per day by May 2010. We would absolutely love to fill the clinic 7 days a week,” says Executive Director Deana L. Sellens.

Visit www.spayhouston.org for more information or contact Deana Sellens at 713-822-4368 or dsellens@spayhouston.org. Spay/Houston is an arm of the Adopt A Cat Shelter/Sanctuary for cats. They are a 501c3 not for profit charity. Follow them on Twitter https://twitter.com/SpayHouston and Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Houston-TX/SpayHouston/230345580371.

The Search is On for Huggable Heroes

2010-01-21T08:12:00.000-08:00

Build-A-Bear Workshop will recognize young leaders making positive contributions in their communities and around the world

Today, more than ever, young people are stepping up to make a difference in communities near and far. More than 55 percent of American teenagers have volunteered for public service projects, according to a study from the Corporation for National & Community Service. That is more than double the rate of adults. And more than two thirds of schools nationwide now offer service opportunities for students.

Build-A-Bear Workshop® has taken a leading role in recognizing efforts of young people to help those in need through its Huggable Heroes® program. Huggable Heroes are young leaders who Build-A-Bear Workshop recognizes, honors and cele-bear-ates each year for providing extraordinary service in their communities and around the world. The seventh annual search for these special people, ranging in age from eight to 18, is now on. Anyone and everyone, ages eight and above, are eligible to nominate a candidate (and kids can nominate themselves) by visiting buildabear.com/huggableheroes or by picking up an entry form at a participating Build-A-Bear Workshop store in the United States and Canada. Nominations will be accepted through Feb. 26, 2010.

Past Huggable Heroes have included such inspiring young people as:
Patrick Pedraja, 13, of Palm Harbor, Fla., who helped add 15,000 new donors to the National Marrow registry and raised $160,000 to support the effort. Patrick demonstrated uncommon creativity and entrepreneurship by selling ads on his bald head and by speaking to groups and businesses to encourage others to get involved.
Mimi Ausland, 12, of Bend, Ore., who created two Web sites to help collect donations to feed homeless dogs and cats in animal shelters across the country.
And Katie Stagliano, 10, of Summerville, S.C., who started “Launch Katie’s Dream” to help see to it that no child goes hungry. She plants vegetable gardens and donates the harvests to soup kitchens and organizations that help feed those in need.

This year, Build-A-Bear Workshop will recognize 10 Huggable Heroes. Each will receive a prize worth $10,000 ($7,500 in the form of an educational scholarship and $2,500 from the Build-A-Bear Workshop Foundation to be donated to the 501(c)(3) charity of each Huggable Hero’s choice). In addition, the Huggable Heroes will win a trip for themselves and a parent to St. Louis, the home of Build-A-Bear Workshop World Bearquarters. During their visit, the 2010 Huggable Heroes will meet each other, be honored for their good deeds and participate in a photo shoot for the 2011 Build-A-Bear Workshop Huggable Heroes Calendar.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-08T10:50:00.000-08:00

It is time to celebrate the blessing of a new year! From our family to yours, we wish you the best in the new year. A very special thank you to our growing family of advertisers and supporters. Coming in the new year are some great articles and new, exciting columns. If you haven't seen our January issue, pick one up at your Kroger store, The Woodlands YMCA locations, Ranchero's restaurant on 2978, Gymboree Play & Music, or more than 200 other locations in the area. Or view our digitial edition, available every month online. http://woodlandsfamilymagazine.com/

Blessings in the new year!!

5 Tips to Holiday Harmony

2009-12-21T21:30:00.000-08:00

Does the thought of the holidays approaching make you fidget? Mary Loverde, best-selling author of books like "Stop Screaming at the Microwave" offers advice that quells holiday hostilities so everyone can enjoy more time together.

Here are 5 tips that Mary offers to get you started down the right path toward holiday harmony!
1. Energy is our reward for letting go. Overcome your urge to control and energy will be the payoff.

2. People love attention. In a way, it's all we really have to offer one another. How else do we let them know they are interesting, cared for, funny, and desired? Make a list of those people whom you need to pay attention and really pay attention.

3. You won't get all the holiday work done anyway, so pay attention to the people you love. Forget the to-do list for a little. Focus on the power of what you already have.

4. Double your time by sitting down. Studies have found that a doctor who sits down with a patient doubles the time the patient perceives the doctor has spent with them. The same rule can apply to your family. Take time to sit down and relax by the fire.

5. The next time you feel frustrations build, put those humor lenses on. Just watch your guests. It won't be long before something strikes you as hilarious and you'll start to be more in tune with the humor in every day life.

Get Your Children Ready for Math Exams!

2009-12-04T07:33:00.000-08:00

Math...love it or hate it, right? Well, parents, Jorge Manzanera, a Professional Academic Coach and Math tutor located in The Woodlands offers some tips to help your children prepare for math success. If you'd like additional tutoring or coaching, visit Jorge's website at http://www.math2toring.com/.

Preparing for a Math exam is something that can make you feel very good, and your parents very proud, and that can establish a path of success for your academic and professional development.

Unfortunately, it is work that requires time and a clear commitment. It is not a matter of how smart you are but a matter of how well you prepare. Enjoy the ride, and be certain that efforts like this will prepare you to achieve any other goal you set for yourself.

First: Take the challenge: When we just don’t take responsibility and procrastinate with assignments, eventually, usually sooner than later, we start having painful consequences that can drag you in the wrong direction, and would need very special attention to be solved.

When you accept the challenge and the responsibility for your math grades, you became an agent of change towards your success. Nobody can do this key step for you, regardless of how much they care. This decision will immediately make you pay more attention in class, take better notes, complete your assignments, and even enjoy more the class and the subject.

Second: It is alright to ask for help, do this as early as you possibly can. The first person that would love to help you is your current math teacher. If he (she) sees you are finally taking responsibility and you have a (real) interest and commitment, you will get valuable help. Also you should talk to your parents, they are the most interested in your (success), in most cases, an older member of the family, has the knowledge and skills to help you along the way.

They can give you valuable advice to develop study skills, and to be more effective. They will hopefully help you to keep you away from distracters like video games, mp3, tv, radio, etc. Appreciate their efforts and be flexible and don’t expect that they will do their homework or assignments for you. Talk also to your friends that have better grades than you do, they will most likely want to help you too, not by givng you the solved assignments , but by working on them together.

Third: Get organized with your reference materials, textbook and notebook. Choose a proper desk or table to work on, and make sure there is a good light and no distractions. Do not turn the TV or any loud music on, do not text, and do not talk on your cell.

Fourth: Make a schedule that will allow you to review or study all the main aspects for your test. Work when you are not tired, and fully concentrate for periods of 10 to 15 mins. Between these periods, you can take brief breaks.

Fifth: Take good care of yourself. Have a very healthy life; sleep, nutrition, water intake, and exercise, are all very important to keep your brain strong and active.

If this seems overwhelming, the try to get a one-on-one professional academic coach or tutor. He or she will be able to design the lessons that you need, and further develop your strengths and reduce your weaknesses, to insure the success you are looking for.

Tips for Having an Eco-Friendly Holiday Season

2009-11-29T21:24:00.000-08:00

If there is one thing that Americans do a lot of, each year between Thanksgiving and Christmas, it is spending money. Last year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, 19 billion cards, letters and packages were delivered during that period. They also report that, during December 2008 alone, $28.2 billion was spent in department stores. While all that spending, giving and receiving may be good for the economy, it wreaks havoc on the environment.

"A lot of resources are being used, and a lot of trash being produced," explains Gary Null, an award-winning talk show host, notable author and the founder of Progressive Radio Network (PRN). "We know the devastating effect that this has on our planet. It is important to do our part to try to keep the holidays as environmentally friendly as possible."

If every family in The Woodlands area committed to following just one "green" holiday tip, we could make a difference. Start by keeping these tips for an eco-friendly holiday in mind:

Buy less. Focus on buying quality, rather than quantity. More items means more resources were used and more waste will be accumulated.

Buy used. Purchasing used products is environmentally friendly. It keeps resources from being used to create new items, and it prevents the used ones from going to a landfill.

Skip the shipping. Try to skip mailing packages. If you must ship, the smaller the better.

Reduce travel. Think twice about whether you need to travel, If you do, consider purchasing carbon offsets.

Get toy savvy. Each year, billions are spent on toys. Look for toys that are made of eco-friendly materials and have limited packaging. Also, try to skip the plastic toys, since they are so bad for the environment.

Wrap smart. Wrapping paper can be a real drain on the environment. Look for friendlier alternatives, such as discarded newspapers. No matter what you use, be sure to recycle what you can, afterwards.

Party green. If you have any get-togethers, be sure to green the party by using only eco-friendly party supplies.

Card yourself. With billions of cards being sent throughout the holidays, a lot of resources are being used. Skip sending any unnecessary cards and, if you do send some cards, opt for online or recycled paper versions. Also, be sure to save, reuse or recycle the cards you do get.

Recycle sleuth. Whether looking at the packaging, at presents or at the decorations, recycle as much as possible. Many items come in cardboard boxes that can easily be broken down and put into the recycling.

Decorate wise. When doing any decorating, opt for low-energy lights and use a timer. Each year, roughly $410 million is spent in the U.S. for the purchase of real Christmas trees. If you opt for one, try to buy it as close to home as possible, and have it recycled locally when you are done with it.

At first, it may seem overwhelming to have an environmentally friendly holiday," adds Null. "But once you take on the challenge and pull it off, you will feel great about it. Plus, it will be a breeze to do it for each of the holidays that follows. It really will be come like second nature."

Santa's Arrival Anticipated at 6:30pm This Saturday!

2009-11-16T12:03:00.000-08:00

Santa will make his grand entrance in a dazzling, decorated boat at Town Green Park along The Woodlands Waterway ® this Saturday, November 21, 2009 at the 27th Annual Lighting of the Doves Festival at approximately 6:30 pm.

Lighting of the Doves officially kicks of the 2009 holiday season in conjunction with the International Winter On The Waterway (iWOW). The festivals will feature interactive booths and games, fireworks, inflatables, snow play areas, ice carving competition, face painters and much more! Enjoy an amazing evening filled with live music and entertainment for the entire family by Needfire, Houston Coral Showcase and other holiday entertainment.

Presented by the Community Associations of The Woodlands, the 27th Annual Lighting of the Doves will take place at Town Green Park which is located adjacent to the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion (2099 Lake Robbins Drive) from 2 pm – 7 pm.

Admission to the festivities is free and open to the public. For more information on Lighting of the Doves, visit http://www.lightingofthedoves.com/. And for more information on other holiday events in The Woodlands, visit http://www.holidayinthewoodlands.com/.

Go Bananas for This Bread!

2009-10-31T21:54:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving is on its way, and we want to share a family recipe with you. If you are on early morning turkey duty, it's great for breakfast with a hot cup of coffee.

Share with us your favorite family dish to serve or eat during the holidays, and you'll be entered to win one of three "A Century of Flavor" cookbooks published by family-owned Nielsen-Massey vanillas. It is filled with 50 tantalizing recipes, and it's written for the novice cook or seasoned chef. Comment below with your favorite dish or email it to us: family@woodlandsfamilymagazine.com.

Bananas for This Bread
INGREDIENTS
• ½ c. butter or margarine (I even use Country Crock Lite and it is still great)
• 1 c sugar
• 2 eggs
• 2 c. flour
• 1 tsp. baking soda
• ½ tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. (or more for taste) cinnamon
• 3 large bananas, mashed
• 1 c. chopped pecans (if you want)

PREPARATION
Heat over to 350 degrees. Cream the butter and sugar and beat in the eggs one at a time. Mix dry ingredients together and set aside. Beat the bananas and pecans into butter and sugar mixture. Slowly add dry ingredients. Pour into loaf pan that is either sprayed with non-stick spray or greased and floured. Bake for one hour (I actually have to let it sit in the warm oven for about 20 minutes after it’s done to get it just right).

Interfaith Holiday Gift Drive Starts a Little Early!

2009-10-07T06:31:00.001-07:00

This year is tougher for everyone, and that especially includes Interfaith of The Woodlands and the families it serves. Supplies have been unusually depleted, so many children and elderly folks will see a dimmer Christmas season without our help.

What you can do:

Find a place in your pocketbook and your heart to purchase a child’s toy or comfort item for a senior adult.
Drop it off at The Blair Law Firm (address below, near Amerigo’s restaurant), drop it off at Interfaith on Interfaith Way in Village of Panther Creek, or call the number below for pickup!
Do it again in November and again in December.
If each of us can make a small effort to go the extra mile this year, it will have a very large impact on many of our neighbors for a brighter holiday season!

Join us in helping Interfaith serve our needy neighbors and friends in our community.

THE BLAIR LAW FIRM, P.C.
#7 Grogan's Park Drive
Redbud Building 3
The Woodlands, Texas 77380
Telephone: 281-363-3632
Facsimile: 281-363-3998

The Learning Lane Night at Chili's

2009-09-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, September 30th, Chili’s will give back 10% of your dinner check to The Learning Lane Center for children with Autism, a Woodlands Family Magazine friend and partner.

Simply click here for the flyer, print it out, then bring it with you. All families are welcome and take out is included.

Wednesday, 9/30

4PM to 11PM
Chili’s
6671 Woodlands Parkway (next to HEB)
281/419‐2529

Meet one of the newest Woodlands Family Magazine team members and columnists, Christopher Echols

2009-09-25T13:31:00.000-07:00

Lights, camera, action! New to our magazine and soon to our website is The Family Reel with Christopher Echols. Christopher is a 27-year old avid lover of film and family. He is blessed with a beautiful bride and two gorgeous daughters. Hailing from Spring, Chris is dedicated to serving God through active participation in the music department with Spring First Church. But he doesn’t stop there—to help other young couples, Chris and his wife head up the young married group at Spring First (if you’re newly married, email him for more information!). When he’s not spending time in the local cinema, he loves to be with his family. And for the Echols, game night is a regular thing. From Monopoly to Mexican Train Dominos, they are constantly laughing and competing at one game or another.

To those who know and love him (as you will soon) Chris is somewhat of a superhero fan. Okay, that’s putting it mildly. Let’s just say that there’s 1) God, 2) family, then 3) Superman. Chris even has a home office to attest for this passion.(God bless his wife for putting up with it!) He also loves Xbox and can often be found online playing Halo or various other games under the tag SupermanEchols—we told you it was a passion!

Says Chris, “My love of films is across the board, ranging from Tombstone to The Notebook, depending on which day you catch me. I look forward to bringing The Woodlands area my own particular brand of reviews and hope to guide families on what will be appropriate for the whole family, just the older ones, or maybe just a date night for Mom and Dad.”

Welcome to the family, Chris! This weekend, check out Chris’s inaugural date night review of the Jane Campion romance, “Bright Star” at http://woodlandsfamilymagazine.com/moviereviews. To contact Chris, christopher@woodlandsfamilymagazine.com

Launch Party Prize Winners!

2009-09-24T18:50:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to the following launch party prize winners!

StrollerFit gift certificate

Valerie Cave

Shannon Logan

Anne Pelletier

Kim Fitzgerald

Laura McMeans

Liv's Kitchen gift certificate

Lindsey Sebastian

Brett Oswick

Stroller Strides gift certificate

Laura Rosales

Melanie Delahoussaye

Diane Welborn

Woodlands Family Magazine subscription

Brenda Ellington

Bruce Thompson

Woodlands Family Magazine T-shirt

Keith Winters

Launch Party a Success!

2009-09-20T12:50:00.000-07:00

So much fun, too bad it had to end...The staff at Woodlands Family Magazine had a great time bringing you a day of fun-filled activities for the family. Thanks to everyone who came out to celebrate with us! From cookie decorating to free massages to face painting, it was a great time. Winners of the StrollerFit, Liv's Kitchen, and StrollerStrides gift certificates will be announced soon! In the meantime, enjoy some photos from Family Rocks!, and we'll see you soon at the next event.

Free Family Launch Party This Weekend!

2009-09-14T09:21:00.000-07:00

The Woodlands's first family magazine is celebrating the launch of its premiere issue with a free family event, Family Rocks! on Saturday, 9/19 from 10am-1pm in Market Street?s Central Park. The event features games, prizes, demonstrations, and activities for the kids plus performances by The Woodlands Concert Band and a live radio remote with the 89.3 KSBJ Fun Patrol. Puffy Pine Cone will also be there for the fun.

Families who bring a canned food item to benefit the food pantry at Interfaith of The Woodlands receive a special gift from Woodlands Family Magazine and Cold Stone Creamery.

Participants include the Northside Roboteers, Seeking Sitters, Rubicon Academy, WoodlandsMommy.com, 3 Star Ice, Lilly Pullitzer, IBC Bank, Kuk Sool Wan Martial Arts Center, AVIA Boutique Hotel, Abundant Life Chiropractic, FREEB!RDS World Burrito, Massage Envy, StrollerFit, Orvis, and Joyful Life Church.

Come out to help us celebrate, and enjoy the fun!

Premiere Issue Hits The Woodlands Area

2009-09-07T08:56:00.000-07:00

We can't believe the day has come and gone! Last week, Woodlands Family Magazine hit the shelves. Well, it didn't literally hit the shelves, but it did hit doorsteps, doctor's offices, children's recreation centers, libraries, YMCAs, and more.

A very special thank you to our charter advertisers, Rubicon Academy, Dr. Richard Roberts, OB/GYN, FINS, Swim Center, Dr. Gina Garner, DDS, Kathleen O. Ryan Fine Art Photography, Liv's Kitchen, Woodlands Online, Richard Haynes & Associates, Woodlandsmommy.com, The Learning Lane, and 89.3 KSBJ. The support of advertisers like these makes it possible for us to bring you fun, family articles and ideas every month.

If you have not received a copy, let us know. We'll mail you a copy of the premiere issue. Send an email to family@woodlandsfamilymagazine.com with your mailing address.

Thank you to all who have supported us. Keep those great ideas and articles coming!

Woodlands Family Magazine and The Learning Lane Name September Family Champion

2009-08-30T17:31:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Ree Knauer, Woodlands Family Magazine's inaugural Family Champion. The September Family Champion is sponsored by The Learning Lane.

Working with children to help them overcome the trials in their lives has been one of Ree Knauer’s greatest joys and passions. Ree has worked with children for about nine years, advocating for children in the court system with CASA and teaching with The Learning Lane. Today, she spends her time serving students in The Leaning Lane’s Social Room where she creates a fun learning experience for children. It is an every day occurrence to hear laughter from her classroom spilling into the school’s hallways. Ree pretty much breaks the rules when it comes to fun! To help her children foster strong bonds and form friendships, she takes advantage of every social opportunity that presents itself. Ree recalls fondly, “The other day the rain finally came pouring down, and with rain comes puddles. And who can keep kids and puddles apart? It’s impossible. So, why not? Kids jumping and screaming, water flying…it was great and absolute fantastic fun.”

So what makes Ree a Family Champion? She loves beating the odds and watching her kids partake in the same social activities as other kids. Hitting their first line drive, playing soccer, dancing the Cha Cha for the first time or seeing them help a friend. Not to mention her commitment to working with families. Ree works hard to develop relationships with parents and grandparents. It gives her immense joy when parents see the social growth their child is capable of. Many parents say to her, “I just want my son to have a friend, to not stand alone on the playground.” The day her parents see their children playing games and eating lunch with friends or sharing about pets or their favorite books, they are able to breathe a sigh of relief. Thanks to Ree Knauer for her hard work as a Family Champion.

Woodlands Family Magazine awards the Family Champion award to an individual or organization serving Woodlands area families. The Family Champion goes above and beyond to advocate for family connections, development, and growth. If you would like to nominate a Family Champion, send us an email to family@woodlandsfamilymagazine.com. Please provide the individual or organization name and a brief description of how they've served families within the community.

6 Days and Counting...

2009-08-26T21:08:00.000-07:00

Only 6 more days until the release of Woodlands Family Magazine's premiere issue! Be sure you get your copy. Send an email to family@woodlandsfamilymagazine.com with your mailing address.

Launch Party Scheduled!

2009-07-29T17:34:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to announce confirmation of our "Family Rocks" launch party at Market Street. The event takes place on September 19th from 10am-1pm. There will be food, prizes, giveaways, music, activities for the kids, and lots of fun! Proclaim "Family Rocks!" and make plans to join us to celebrate the launch of The Woodlands best new publication for families.

Introducing Intern, Janna Schulze!

2009-07-20T20:17:00.000-07:00

Meet Janna Schulze, one of our Marketing and Promotions Interns. One of Janna's first assignments was to tell us what family means to her. And here is what this wonderful young woman had to say as she reminisced about Hurricane Ike...

When I think of family, I remember the unique opportunity that Hurricane Ike gave us to reconnect last summer. Instead of split amongst apartments and dorm rooms, my whole family was gathered together in the house where we grew up. When the lights went out, rather than watch TV at night, we stood on our driveways and talked with neighbors we normally just waved to. We traded chainsaws, batteries, and books. We barbecued corn on the cob and played cards by candlelight. The neighborhood kids, free from school and video games, roamed the streets in giddy packs, and you could tell by their grins that they would remember those days for the rest of their lives. I always try to see the silver lining, and while it shouldn't have taken a hurricane, I'm grateful for the chance it gave me to rediscover the meaning of family and neighbors.

Family is Cool!

2009-07-12T17:54:00.000-07:00

Woodlands Family Magazine hit Market Street's Peanut Butter & Jamm event this weekend with a "Family is Cool" Fan Decoration Station. The kids lined up for ice pops and had a great time staying cool with their decorated fans.

Among the other free, fun activities for the kids were mini salon services from Sweet & Sassy and ice cream making with Esprit International. While we were there, we ran into Dr. Ann Snyder with Interfaith of The Woodlands and Joel Deretchin, Vice President, Community Development for The Woodlands Development Company. Both were out with friends and family enjoying the festivities.

This free, fun event takes place every Saturday from July 11 - August 8. Woodlands Family Magazine will be there on July 25th and August 1st. Stop by our booth where family is cool! Visit the Market Street website for more details on this great event, http://www.marketstreet-thewoodlands.com/.

Here we go...

2009-06-11T20:20:00.001-07:00

Woodlands Family Magazine is launching September 2009!

Celebrating the vibrant family life of The Woodlands, Texas.