The Cutting Edge

Ice skating is probably not the first thing that comes to your mind when thinking of things to do in Houston.

True, we have 2 indoor rinks year-round: 1 in the center of the Galleria and another near the Target entrance of Memorial City Mall.

But from November through January, we are given the opportunity to embrace the experience of true ice skating outside.

Ok, maybe not true in the sense of a frozen pond, but you get the idea.

The Ice Rink at the Woodlands Town Center is so worth the drive to the Land of Wood. Shopping, food, lights and ice skating!

PARKING
Paid Parking
$5 at the parking lot at Six Pines and Lake Robbins Drive

Free Parking (Except for Saturday, November 21, 2009)
Town Center Garage – located adjacent to The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion on Six Pines Drive

OPEN DAILY:
November 21, 2009 through January 18, 2010

TICKET PRICES:
Weekdays (Monday – Friday)
$9.50 for 2-hour skate session (includes $2.50 skate rental)
$ 5 for 2-hour skate session for children 5 and under (includes $2.50 skate rental)

Weekends (Saturday – Sunday)
$10.50 for 2-hour skate session (includes $2.50 skate rental)
$6 for 2-hour skate session for children 5 and under (includes $2.50 skate rental)

HOURS OF OPERATION:
Monday – Thursday, 3 pm to 9 pm
Friday, 3 pm to 11 pm
Saturday, 10 am to 11 pm
Sunday, Noon to 7 pm

HOLIDAY HOURS:
School Holidays: 11 am to 10 pm
Thanksgiving Day: 1 pm to 9 pm
Christmas Eve: 11 am to 6 pm
Christmas Day: 2 pm to 8 pm
New Years Eve: Noon to 1 am
New Years Day: 11 am to 9 pm

KIDDIE RINK
16' x 16' ice skating area
5 years old and under

They also have daily promotions and a $2 coupon available.

Path To The Cradle

Jersey Village Baptist Church will host their Path to the Cradle presentation December 17th- 19th.

King of Kings at JVBC is an interactive Christmas drama depicting the events of the nativity story. The performance, excecuted every 10 minutes through a series of interactive scenes along the church's property runs from Thursday December 17th through Saturday December 19th from 5:3o pm to 8:30 pm each night.

More information needed? Visit their site here.

F-R-E-E that spells FREE

Looking for some holiday music to get you in the mood?

Amazon.com is offering a free Christmas song each day until Christmas to download and ITunes has some as well.

Don't shoot the messenger when you hear the Billy Bob Thorton and Lady GaGa songs. DO NOT download those....just take my word. The small snippet alone really made me sad and mad at Amazon and the ding dongs who chose to include those terrible songs. But I do give them snaps for including Jars of Clay, Todd Agnew and Casting Crowns.

Also, if you are not checking Freebies4Mom and Dealicious Mom for their free-stuff updates, you are missing a blessing. I made a calendar through Photoworks and a 10-page flipbook through Snapfish for FREE! It's SO worth it to check out their blogs. They are a wealth of knowledge!

Path To The Cradle

Jersey Village Baptist Church will host their Path to the Cradle presentation December 17th- 19th.

King of Kings at JVBC is an interactive Christmas drama depicting the events of the nativity story. The performance, excecuted every 10 minutes through a series of interactive scenes along the church's property runs from Thursday December 17th through Saturday December 19th from 5:3o pm to 8:30 pm each night.

More information needed? Visit their site here.

Flapjacks & A Flick

Willowbrook Movie Tavern is offering family fun on Saturday mornings!

For a limited time, they are offering Flapjacks and a Flick on Saturdays at 9:00 am. All-you-can-eat pancakes and a family movie for one great, love price!

$8.50 for kiddos and $10 for adults includes movie ticket, select drinks and
pancakes.

Check here for movie titles, times and details. This Saturday's features are A Christmas Carol, Planet 51 and The Princess and The Frog.

*Note: There is an extra $2.00 fee for films featured in 3D.

Put on those Christmas jammies and head over to Movie Tavern. Movies never tasted so good!

December Vintage Park Cinema Alfresco

Movie Under The Stars this Saturday!

Polar Express is the feature film.

Click here for details.

George Ranch's Cowboy Christmas

The George Ranch Historical Park is offering a chance for you to experience a Cowboy Christmas.

Experience the beauty of the holidays with guided tours of the 1830s Jones Stock Farm and the 1860s Ryon Prairie Home decorated in the spirit of the season. Mingle with Civil War soldiers at the Ryon home and enjoy the taste of years gone by as Chef Nick Castelberg cooks up a delicious historic food selection at both sites. Wrap up the evening's festivities with singing and story-telling around the Oak Grove campfire with the George Ranch cowboys.

In true Texas tradition, Campfire Christmas will be held regardless of the weather.

RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED.

Adults: $40

Seniors/Children/Groups of 10 or more: $35

Times begin at 6 p.m. and rotate every 30 minutes until 8 p.m.

Special Offer for Corporate Bookings

Campfire Christmas sells out quickly. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind Texas celebration. Call the George Ranch Historical Park at (281) 343-0218 or e-mail education@georgeranch.org for more information about Campfire Christmas 2009 today!

Interested in a private Campfire Christmas for your group? Call (281) 343-0218 or e-mail education@georgeranch.org for more information.

Gingerbreak Workshop

The Northwest Branch Library at 11355 Regency Green is offering a special Gingerbread Workshop on Saturday December 12th from 2-3 pm.

Children will enjoy arts and crafts through building gingerbread houses and then, if they wish, eating what they have created!

Holiday Drama

Everyone anticipates a little holiday drama. When you mix that many people and personalities....all you can do is laugh and move on.

How 'bout some real drama?

Check out all these local drama opportunities:

December 12-13th
Houston's First Baptist Church Celebration
7401 Katy Freeway

November 20-22nd
The Nutcracker
Cypress Academy of Peforming Arts
11707 Huffmeister Rd.

December 3-4th
Christmas Theater
Jersey Village Baptist Church
16518 Jersey Dr.
7 pm

Weekends in December (December 4th-17th)
December 3-13th
A Christmas Carol
Houston Family Arts
9191 Barker Cypress

December 3-13th
A Taffeta Christmas
Main Stage Theater
9191 Barker Cypress

December 5-6th
The Little Rascals Rescue Alfalfa Again
Cypress Academy of Performing Arts
11707 Huffmeister Rd.

Polar Express, All Aboard!

The Texas State Railroad is known for their super fun events.....and with the holidays upon us, it's time for a little magic.

All Aboard! The Polar Express™comes to life at the Texas State Railroad.

Inspired by the award winning book by Chris Van Allsburg, come experience the magic of The Polar Express™. Read along with the story as the train makes a roundtrip journey to the North Pole. Meet Santa and enjoy caroling, hot chocolate and a treat. And, for those who believe, a special gift for each child. Everyone is encouraged to wear their pajamas!

Advanced tickets on sale now!

Tickets:

Friday, Sunday, & Weekdays

• Coach $19 child (ages 2-11), $34 adults

• Climate Controlled $21 child (ages 2-11), $38 adults

Saturday Tickets

• Coach $23 child (ages 2-11), $38 adults

• Climate Controlled $25 child (ages 2-11), $42 adults

First Class Seating in Private Car 1511

Climate Controlled - Limited Seating

Enjoy The Polar Express™ Train Ride on our First Class private car. You will experience first class service at your table by Chefs, enjoy a variety of cookies served on silver trays, drink delicious hot chocolate with whip cream and chocolate sprinkles in our collectable Polar Express™ mugs as well as an additional choice of coffee, tea, or sparkling cider. Enjoy a First Class experience on board The Polar Express this Christmas! Table seating for 2 and 4 individuals.

Tickets:

$39 child (ages 2-11), $58 adults

November 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28, & 29

December 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27

Times: 5:10pm, 6:45pm, & 8:15pm

**Be sure and check back here for an event with the Lone Ranger in 2010!

November Vintage Park Cinema Alfresco

Movie Under The Stars this Saturday!

Harry Potter is the feature film.

Click here for details.

Rooms To Go...literally

I have had a massive bee in my bonnet.

You see, we are having our carpets cleaned in T minus 4 days and major surgery has to be done for him to be able to actually get to some areas of my carpet.

Don't judge.

So, I began cleaning out every square inch of my house on Monday and I'm not sure my back will every be the same again because I also rearranged my kiddos rooms....

You know where this is going.

So, I have a deal for you!

You've heard of bed in a bag..I've got that and a bit extra.



Do you have a little guy who is about to embarque on the wonderous journey of having his very own big guy room?

I'm your gal. Check this out.

I have a custom full/queen duvet comforter, 1 bed skirt, 2 European pillows, 3 accent pillows, 2 sets of full size sheets and a padded mattress cover for $75.



Can you hardly stand how cute these pillows are? The small one is a propeller with leather and fleece trim...like a bomber jacket. The large star pillow has the same leather and fleece trim.

It's true!


The front of the duvet is a black and khaki check and the back is black and khaki ticking. AND the duvet has authentic military buttons as detail.






Both sets of full sheets have authentic ribbon trim purchased at a company that makes military medals and such.

If you are having an 'ick' moment about buying someone else's sheets...I assure you...we are VERY clean people. If you have been reading this blog long, you know I err on the side of OCD. I'm just sayin'....





And the bedskirt is the same fabric as the European pillows with fabric insets the same as the front of the duvet.


Bottom line...these are priced to move.

Entire Bedding Set $75

Interested? Email me at intheknownorthwest@gmail.com

Have a friend who might be? Pass this along!

I also have a gently used Fuzion Scooter for $35 and a huge set of Rokenbok for $40.....ok...stop the madness! I'm done.


**disclaimer....don't worry, I'm not turning my blog into an electronic yard sale. I just wanted these darn cute items to go to a good home and thought I could spread the word to lots of mommies this way!\

**Originally had other furniture but it has since sold.

Home Depot Kids Workshop-November

Home Depot holds Kids Workshops the 1st Saturday of every month.

These how-to workshops are free and designed for kiddos ages 5-12. You won't receive any paint, it's optional to paint it at home. Plus first-time participants get a free apron. Every time you go you get a pin for the specific project you built to add to your apron and a certificate.

Head over to the Depot between 9-12 and give your kids a chance to make a very cool tile trivet.

Markets, Markets Everywhere!

Ladies, there is no shortage of markets and craft shows the next 2 months (yes, November is knocking on our door!).

I just updated the list.....mark your calendars and make your Christmas lists. The creativity of Houston is yours for the taking!

Wee Wuns Fall Festival

October 31st 10am - 2pm
Wee Wuns 20th Annual Fall Festival
Hayrides ~ Costume Contest ~ Bake Sale ~ Silent Auction ~ Moonwalks

Cypress United Methodist Church
13403 Cypress North Houston (just east of Huffmeister)
cypressunited.org

She's Movin' On

I'm a Tea Room gal.

Love the food, love the iced tea, and especially love the company while I'm there.

I love them so much, I created an entire post, just about Rabbit Food and Fruity Tea awhile back.

So, I'm sitting at Flag Football practice the other night when a good friend texts me that my favorite Tea Room of all time, Idyl Hours, is vacant.

Sign down... empty....deserted.

I couldn't dial my phone fast enough. Texting wasn't going to do! I needed details. Stat!

After going through all the possible scenarios we could think of, we went to the world wide web to solve our mystery.

The answer was right there, front page, on her website.

Stella decided to write that book she's been wanting to write and focus on catering and delivery instead of running the Tea Room day in and day out.

Although my Thursdays will never be the same without her Tequila Lime Chicken Crepes, I'm so excited for her and her new season of life.

Thanks, Stella, for providing such a fun place for us gals to regain some sanity and enjoy some amazing food over the years. There is no one quite like you...and I mean that in the best way.

October Vintage Park Cinema Alfresco

Movie Under The Stars this Saturday!

Ghostbusters is the feature film.

Click here for details.

Home Depot Kids Workshop-October

Home Depot holds Kids Workshops the 1st Saturday of every month.

These how-to workshops are free and designed for kiddos ages 5-12. You won't receive any paint, it's optional to paint it at home. Plus first-time participants get a free apron. Every time you go you get a pin for the specific project you built to add to your apron and a certificate.

Head over to the Depot between 9-12 and give your kids a chance to make a very cool firehouse bank.

WinkFlash's Flat Rate Photo Book Offer

OK, I know this post really doesn't have anything to do with a NW Houston event...BUT...you are NOT going to want to let this deal pass you by!!

So indulge me and take a peek below...


Last year after I went to Italy, I took advantage of Winkflash's amazing Flat Rate Book Sale.

I was able to make a 100 page book for $19.99.

Yep, you read that right..

And here is the BEST part.

I was able to enlarge so many of my photos to a full page because I had 100 pages to play with. Enlarging pictures of the Amalfi Coast is the only way to truly see the amazing detail and remember that kind of beauty.

Now, pick yourself up off the floor, find a reason to make a picture book and head over to their site. Use coupon code FLATRATE

I knew there was a good reason for procrastinating and not making a book from our fantabulous Florida trip yet.

Note: This great price is for the Classic Covers only...but seriously? A 100 page book of memories for $20? SOLD!

Offer expires 10/27/09

More Gift Markets, Festivals and Bizarres

One great thing about living in H'town is there is no shortage of places to go and people to see.

A big thank you to the Houston Chronicle for compiling a gigantic list of Fall Bazaars and Festivals....their words not mine.

Who even uses that word 'bizarre' anymore?

I think my friend's Hubs put it best...Bizarre Festivals.

I think you can agree there is some unique selections of items.

I owe The Chronicle a big smooch because not having to hunt down show locations and carefully select the Northwest choices saved me tons of time ...which is muy importante because I'm in the middle of watching Flash Forward...which is a bizarre festival all its own.


I'm not usually a drama-show kinda girl..I'm the type that reads ahead in books because I often can't stand the tension that has been created.

What a WILD ride that show was. I think I just might be hooked.

Anyhoo...check out the list and let the shopping begin! Fall is here!

Make Wishes Come True at Cold Stone

Thursday, September 24, Cold Stone Creamery is sponsoring the 8th Annual Make A Wish World's Largest Ice Cream Social from 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.

It’s all part of a fundraiser for the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Customers will get a free 3 oz serving of Jack's creation.... Make-a-Wish with a donation.

Look at the bright side....3 oz is much easier to work off the next day, right? And for all your loyal Marble Slab fans....one time won't kill ya, you know.

Bridgeland's Nature Fest

From birds of prey to Frisbee-catching canines, Bridgeland's second annual Nature Fest promises to be one wild adventure.

The event will be held on Saturday September 26th. Free and open to the public, the Fest is from 10 am-6 pm.

The Houston ZooMobile and Birds of Prey, an educational program with live hawks and owls, will entertain families, as will a frisky performance by the Houston Canine Frisbee Disc Club.

The event includes a host of activities, numerous exhibitors, a farmer's market, armadillo races, rock climbing wall, and much more.

For more information, call 281-304-5588 or visit Bridgeland's website.

Boston Market Kid Eat Free

Boston Market is doing their part to help get good food in our kiddos bellies!

Two kids can eat free with a purchase of a $6 adult meal.

Seriously?

No coupon required but the kids must be there....so you might have to park the car and go inside.

Offer good until October 31, 2009

Waller County Fair

There is just something about funnel cake and corny dogs with mustard that make driving to Waller not so far...

It's time for the Waller County Fair!

Mark your calendars.... The fair begins with a BBQ cookoff and Volleyball tournament on Friday September 25th and the actual fair begins Saturday September 26th. From the info on the website, it looks like it runs through October 4th.

Each year the Waller County Fair is held late September and usually running through the first part of October. The fair features livestock projects from area youth organizations such as 4H and local FFA classes.

During the fair time you can also enjoy a good old fashion rodeo with both professional and amateur competitors. There is always a good show with plenty of rodeo action.

During the fair they also feature carnival rides and various concessions. You can enjoy exciting rides, good food, and see a selection of crafts from area vendors. Come out and pick up a new hat, saddle, or that perfect western-style decoration for the house. It's all there for your enjoyment.

Finally, what fair would be complete without a dance. Each evening they have live entertainment provided by local and area entertainers with some coming from the renown Austin music scene. In addition, each main weekend they have feature entertainers and a dance in the main pavilion.

Here's the map...make plans to take the entire family down 290 to the Waller County Fair.

CyFair College FREE Computer Workshops

Do you know just enough about your computer to be dangerous?

Want to learn more about navigating the internet, Excel, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Publisher and Mail Merge?

Lonestar College offers Hands-On Free Sessions at the computer lab of the LoneStar College Cy-Fair Branch's computer lab, located on Barker Cypress.

Click here for the full September, October and November Schedules.

Comedy Sportz

Looking for a comedy act that is funny AND clean?

Comedy Sportz will be at the Berry Center on Thursday September 17th. The show begins at 7:30.

Comedy Sportz is comic improvisation at its best. It's not just stand-up comedy about sports....it's improv comedy played as a sport!

For more information, email them at cyfairdramaclub@lonestar.edu.

To Market We Will Go

Save the Dates!

Here begins the post of all the wonderful Gift Markets, Craft Shows, Fall Festivals and other opportunities to buy some really cute stuff!

I'll be updating this as more shows come across my path. If you have a show to share, feel free to give me at shout at intheknownorthwest@gmail.com.


***updated 10/27/09

September 25-26th
9am -3pm
St. Mary's Episcopal Church Fall Gift Market
15415 N. Eldridge

October 2-3rd
9am-5pm
Carousel of Crafts Boutique
Cypress Creek Christian Church
6823 Cypresswood Drive

October 3- October 4th
St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church
Fall Festival & Craft Market
7810 Cypresswood Dr.
ignatiusloyola.org

October 10th
10am -2pm
Cy-Fest at Lone Star College CyFair
October 10th from 10-2
lonestar.edu

October 10th
10am -4pm
Forget-Me-Not Craft Fair
Heartland at Willowbrook
13631 Ardfield Drive

October 16th-17th
9am-4pm, 9am-3pm
Coles Crossing Fall Market
Coles Crossing Community Center, Barket Cypress at Jarvis

October 17th
Foundry United Methodist Church Holiday Market & Tea Room
9am- 4pm
foundrychurch.org

October 24th
St. Elizabeth Ann Seaton Catholic Church Arts & Crafts Show
6646 Addicks-Satsuma
832-213-6158

October 24th
11am-4pm
Christ the Good Shepherd Fall Festival
18511 Klein Church Road

October 24th
St. Dunstan's 38th Annual "Street of Shoppes" Bazaar
14301 Stuebner Airline Road
281-440-1600

November 6th & 7th
Junior League Holiday Market
The Woodlands Waterway, Marriott in the Woodlands Town Center
9-6 pm & 10-4 pm

November 7th & 8th
Jersey Village FFA
Home for the Holidays Craft Show
9-5 pm & 10-4 pm
CyFair Exhibit Center
11206 Telge

November 12th-15th
Nutcracker Market
www.houstonballet.org
Reliant Center
10-8pm and 10-6 pm on Saturday and Sunday
$10 advanced tickets, $11 at the door; 1/2 price 3 hours prior to closing

November 13th & 14th
Ravensway Craft Show
9-5 pm
12730 Jarvis

November 14th & 15th
Langham Creek FFA
CFISD Exhibit Center
11206 Telge Rd

November 29th
Northwest Forest Holiday Market
10-5 pm
12715 Telge Road

December 3rd-4th
10am-7, 10am-5pm
Longwood Gift Market
Longwood Golf Pavillion

Saturday, Dec 5, 2009
Ye Olde Gift Market 2009

8:00 am to 3:00 pm

Gleannloch Pines Golf Club

19393 Champion Forest Dr

Spring, TX 77379

(Gleannloch Farms subdivision)

Email: YeOldeGiftMarket@Gmail.com

Tel: 281-777-0859

Note: The proceeds from this event will be used to send Christmas care package for our troops who are serving overseas.

December 5th
Wee Wuns 9th Annual Holiday Market
9-3 pm
Cypress United Methodist Church
13403 Cypress North Houston

December 5th & 6th
CyFair FFA Country Christmas Craft Show
CFISD Exhibit Center
11206 Telge Rd

December 12th
10am-5pm
Rock Creek Holiday Boutique and Craft Show
14223 Winding Springs Road
Cypress, Tx 77429

December 12th & 13th
CyCreek FFA Cougar Christmas Market
CFISD Exhibit Center
11206 Telge Rd

St. Mary's Fall Gift Market

Save the date!

St. Mary's Fall Gift Market
(located at the corner of Louetta and N. Eldridge Parkway)

Friday September 25th &
Saturday the 26th
9 am - 3 pm

Pottery, jewelry, handcrafted gifts, women and children's clothing,
home decor, Round Top Collection, florals,
Silent Auction, Raffle, Tea Room and more

Shop Till You Drop

Craft Market Season is here again, Ladies!

Find your comfy shoes, dig out your birthday and Christmas money you have been saving and head over to the Berry Center for the Copperfield Womens Club's 'Shop Til You Drop' Arts and Crafts Market.

When? This Saturday, Sept. 12th from 9-4.

I know...short notice. It snuck up on me!

Did you know this is the first ever Craft Market at the Berry Center?

You gals know I don't do crowds...but I might have to make an exception.

I love me a good Gift Market.

Make a list of those you will be buying for and start shopping early for Christmas, birthdays or teacher gifts for throughout the year.

And not to worry...I'm working on a post of all the other Gift Markets coming this Fall. There are some good ones!

Cozy Doze- A New Kind of Nap Map

I know I'm a day late and a dollar short on this post as most of your kiddos are back to MDO... but I came across this darn cute company called Cozy Doze and they make the cutest pillows that hold a full-size color coordinated blanket for just under $20 bucks!


Because of kid-friendly handles and overall kid-size (12"x12") and weight (approx. 1 lb. 4 oz.), Cozy Doze^® are easy for children to carry—so grown-ups are free to carry other things!

These are functional, durable and washable—quality that allows daily usage and multiple washings.

Check 'em out and see what you think!

September Vintage Park Cinema Alfresco

Movie Under The Stars this Saturday!

E.T. is the feature film.

Click here for details.

Houston Puppertry Festival

The Greater Houston Puppetry Guild invites you to attend the Annual Houston Puppetry Festival!

7 Clock hours for attending the Puppetry Festival!

Date: Saturday, September 26, 2009
Time: 8:30 am - 3:45 pm
Held at: Cypress Creek Christian Community Center
6823 Cypresswood Dr., Spring, Tx (NW Houston)

Seventeen Workshops, including:

* Puppets: Another Teacher in the Classroom
* Spoon Puppets
* Writing Scripts for Puppet Ministry
* Storytelling with Puppets
* Creating Puppet Mascots
* Stage Shadow Puppetry
* Fun Puppet Skits for Schools and Libraries
* Sock Puppets
* Spongee Puppets
* Creating Original Stories from the Heart
* Let There Be Black Light
* Anything Can Be a Puppet
* Storytelling with Puppets for Little People
* Punch and Judy
* Entertaining Young Children with Puppetry
* Overhead Projector Shadow Puppetry
* Plaster Bandage Puppet

Professional Performances

Puppetry Store of Books and Puppets

Puppet Parade

Cost: $60 Adult (fee includes all activities and lunch)
$40 Child

For more information call Jean Kuecher at 281-655-5347 or email her at jkpuppet@aol.com

Download a registration form here

Home Depot Kids Workshop-September

Home Depot holds Kids Workshops the 1st Saturday of every month.

These how-to workshops are free and designed for kiddos ages 5-12. You won't receive any paint, it's optional to paint it at home. Plus first-time participants get a free apron. Every time you go you get a pin for the specific project you built to add to your apron and a certificate.

Head over to the Depot between 9-12 and give your kids a chance to make a very cool bean bag toss.

LUMA Light Show at Miller Outdoor Theater

Looking for a little culture for your kiddos?

Gish Pics is a great resource for fine arts happenings in Houston.

Today's e-newsletter included the very fun show below. Check it out!

LUMA is the world's first "Human Light Show" that has been seen on four continents, a dozen countries, and coast to coast in the United States. LUMA brings cutting edge illuminated technology to the stage fused to a wide variety of disciplines from dance, magic, puppetry, rhythmic gymnastics, acrobatics, and physics phenomenon. LUMA depicts a world of luminosity from fireflies to meteors from carnival rides to screen savers.

LUMA recaptures that innocent fascination we all have from our first play with a flashlight under the covers, to our yearly pilgrimage to fireworks shows in the summer and our reveling in the holiday lights in the winter.

The show is at the Miller Outdoor Theater the Friday and Saturday ONLY at 8:30.

New Party In Town

The planning of a birthday party can sometimes take the actual fun right out of that party....Especially if you have already tackled all the major ideas like gymnastics, inflatable rentals, pool parties and laser tag.

And if someone asks if you've considered having the party at your own house.... You have my permission to tell them to go sell crazy somewhere else because you are all filled up at your house.

Yes, I did just say that outloud.

How 'bout a mobile video game experience?

What is that you say? A mobile man-cave of sorts?



Yessirreee!

CurbGames.com might just be what you are looking for.

CurbGames features the most popular video games from Nintendo Wii, X-Box 360 and Sony PlayStation 3. 3 mobile theaters are available, each developed to provide up to 24 multi-player stations.

And not to worry...they do have rating systems for what games are featured in the mobile theater that will pull up in front of your casa.

Inside CurbGames you will find an air conditioned "limo style" luxury Mobile Video Game Theater with 4 50" plasma TVs and 16 linked multi-player stations.

Outside you will find 2 50" plasma TVs with an additional 8 linked multi-player stations, all equipped with the latest fully interactive games such as Halo 3, Rock Band, Call of Duty, Guitar Hero 3, Wii Sports, Mario Brothers, Sonic and much more.

Something tells me this isn't going to just be for kids....once the men get wind of this, 40th birthday parties will take on a whole new look.

And we thought rollerskating parties were big stuff back in the day.

Ooops, I just showed my age.

Check out CurbGames.com. They are available for birthday parties, team parties, corporate events, family gatherings or neighborhood events.

Niftee 50ees Turns Back Time

Have you ever driven near 249 and Spring Cypress on a Saturday night and happened to see a Classic Street Rod or a 60's Muscle Car driving past?

Chances are they are either going or coming from the Niftee 50ees Classic Drive-in.

The Niftee 50ees Classic Drive-In is held each Saturday from 6-10 pm in the Kroger Shopping Center located at Spring Cypress and Champion Forest.

This is no small show....on any given Saturday, north of 100 classic cars can be found parked in this shopping center.

The show is geared toward models earlier than 1979.....classic Street Rods, 50's Cruisers, 60s & 70's Muscle Cars. You will be stunned at the selection and the amount of people that mill around during those 4 hours. These types of cars draw quite a crowd. It's a well known fact...avoid shopping at the Spring Cypress/Champion Forest Kroger on Saturday night if you can avoid it.

Grab an early dinner at Schilleci's (read some of their fabulous reviews here)and then take your time walking through rows and rows of amazing pieces of history. Feel free to bring your camera. And don't hesitate to ask the owners questions...they LOVE to talk about their cars.

Don't miss out on this local treasure! Their 2009 season ends right before Thanksgiving.

Free Poster

Do you have a favorite pic from this summer that would be perfect as an 11x14 poster?

You are in luck.

Log on to Walgreens.com today and use the code FREEPOSTER when checking out. You'll pay just $1.99 shipping and get a fabulous larger-than-life memory from the summer.

Code is only good for today...so get to it!

Psstt.....Walgreens is giving away free stuff all week! Take a peek:

Wednesday - FREE Photo Clings (you save $9.99, pay $5.99 shipping)
Thursday - FREE 20 4x6 prints (you save $3.80, pick up in-store)
Friday - $0.99 Scrapbook Page 8x10 (you save $4.00, pick up in-store)
Saturday - 50% off Everyday Photo Books (you save $5.00 for 20 pgs, $1.99 shipping)

POS

What is POS you might ask?

Parent Over Shoulder

It's what kids text when their parents are in the room and perhaps looking at their computer screen or the face of their phone.

Pretty sneaky, right?

As parents, we are always trying to stay one step ahead of danger lurking ahead of our kids.

So when a facebook post regarding internet filters appeared on my wall today...I thought this would be a great thing to share.

A website called Top Ten Reviews has done the research so you don't have to....To read reviews of 10 highly-rate internet filter software choices go here.

Two others that have been mentioned in the responses are I Am Big Brother and Covenant Eyes..but I'll be honest and say I've heard mixed reviews regarding the later choice.

After 12+ comments on that particular post, the filter most recommended is YOU. Keep your
kid's computer in a public place like the kitchen, as much as you can.

So there you have it. Check the meat and spit out the bones, if you will..but at least give it a glance for future use.

SoccerTots & SoccerTouch Now in Houston

Sports activities are an integral part of every child's physical and social development. And let's just be honest...anything activity based just flat gets the energy out of those little guys.

SoccerTots and Soccer Touch are now in the Houston area!

SoccerTots® franchised program is a child development program for kids ages 18 months to 6 years old. It uses a variety of fun games to delight and engage kids in physical activity. The curriculum is professionally designed to develop motor skills, promote physical fitness, and create self-confidence. Learn more about classes.

SoccerTouch® franchised program is a child development program focused on kids ages 6 to 10 years old. It uses a variety of skills-based games combined with small-sided soccer games in a weekly class format. The curriculum is professionally designed to develop soccer skills in an environment of fun with little emphasis put on competition. Emphasis is put on individual skill development. Learn more about classes.

SoccerTouch® Summer Camps develop motor skills and fitness for kids ages 4 to 10 years old by doing fun activities to enhance your child's soccer and athletic abilities! Learn more about camp dates and locations.

Classes are held at:

The Woodlands

Spring/Klein

Cy-Fair

West Houston-Katy

And you can never get rained out because it's inside! Bonus!

First Impressions

The day is upon us. The day when you meet the person who will spend time with your precious angel from the Lord for 5+ hours a day, Monday-Friday, or some variation. Meet the Teacher is about a week away.

We waited and waited for those letters to come in the mailbox. That little piece of paper brought a range of emotions: happiness, frustration, disappointment, uncertainty. Will this teacher really be able to appreciate how smart, funny and special this child is?

Nothing like a new school year to get you on your knees. God knew who your child's teacher would be this year and know without a doubt, He has a plan for them. Remind me of that when I open my boys' teacher letters. Thank you in advance for telling me, "It's just going to be SO fine."

My mom-in-law is the Queen of Susus. What are 'susus' you ask? Susus are little gifts that she finds and sends for no reason, just to say she was thinking of you. As a former teacher, I am very careful what I give or bring to the classroom of my boys' teachers. And as one would guess, I usually steer clear of bath products, coffee mugs, stuffed animals and wooden jewelry because I received a lot of it when I taught. So heartfelt, but still too much bath gel isn't a blessing. BUT, when my friends, Leigh Ann & Julie, let me in on their Meet the Teacher susu secret, I had to share.

Gourmet Apples and More is a little shop right in front of Champion Forest Baptist Church that sells chocolate-covered creations. They have chocolate-covered rice krispie treats, pretzels and as you would guess, apples! But these aren't just any chocolate-covered apples, they are works of art. To give you an idea, they have Plain Jane (dipped in caramel and then dipped in chocolate), Rocky Road and Heath Bar. The apples on their website are the large variety which run $14ish and the smaller size are $6ish. And when I spoke to the sweet man who was answering phones today, he said they will last 2-3 weeks in the fridge. They open for the season on Monday and will be open from 10-6 daily. Bless his heart, he had been receiving phone calls from several spirited ladies that day, frustrated that the store had not been open for the private school meet the teacher events.

So as summer draws to a close and you have a bit more spring in your step, remember to bless those sweet teachers as they begin this new school year. Nothing says love like chocolate!

Operation Backpack

You have one more week to participate in Operation Backpack!

YMCA’s across the Greater Houston area are gearing up to provide school supplies for children in our communities. The children you help through this project will be filled with hope, joy and excitement as they start the school year. Your investment will provide these children the opportunity to start school with the tools to be successful.

It's so easy! While you are taking care of your regular shopping, pick up an extra backpack and school supplies for a kiddo in our area that may not have the resources to begin school with the needed supplies.

Many willing hearts are needed to assist with this project. Help the YMCA make a difference in the life of a child. Donate a backpack filled with school supplies and change a life!

**JC Penny, Target and Walmart have lots of choices at such great prices...you could even donate several backpacks!

Deadline is August 16th.

Buy One Get One Free at Johnny Carinos

From today until August 15th, PRINT THIS E-MAIL, and head over to Carino's and get 1 of the following entrees free when you buy any of our entrees from the House Specialties, Classic Italian or Lunch Entrees menu sections.

Choose one of these free entrees:
Five Meat Tuscan Pasta
Angel Hair with Artichokes
Create Your Own Pasta
Spaghetti & Meatballs

Add a House Salad for $0.99 or a Mini Dessert for $2!

Hurry into Carino's today!
This only lasts for 10 days.

This offer is valid at Carino's Italian Restaurants for DINE-IN ONLY in the following areas: TX (excluding Wichita Falls and El Paso), AR, LA, MO, Kansas City, NJ (except Clifton), ID, CO. Not valid with any other promotions or coupons. Discount amount limited to $9.99 per free entree.

Offer good from 8/6/2009 - 8/15/2009 only. One printed coupon per table and up to 4 free entrees per coupon. Offer not valid with Curbside To-Go or Catering. Present this printed e-mail to server when placing your order. Tax and gratuity not included.

Snapfish Photo Adventure

It's August... summer camps, activities and vacations are winding down and you feel like you just might be the poster child for Sunsweet prunes if you don't cut back on the pool time.

Soon.

Very soon.



Help is here.

Snapfish Photo Adventure

Snapfish has partnered with Leap Frog to bring you and your kids a fun photo adventure everyone will enjoy. It's easy to get started, just choose one of their four adventure themes (beach, fun around the house, camping or theme parks & fairs) and let your kids get snapping.

And it's easy to win prizes! Complete all 7 challenges per theme and get 50% off any size collage poster. Finish four themes and get a FREE 5" x 7" photo book!

The fun only lasts until August 31 so get started today. This photo op could be in your future!

Houston Restaurants Week 2009

Are you a foodie?

Get ready to be dazzled.

It's time for Houston Restaurant Week 2009.

From August 10th-23rd, you have a chance to dine out to help fight hunger in Houston. The opportunity to enjoy a three course gourmet meal for $35 per person (not including beverages, tax or gratuity) awaits you. Participating restaurants will donate $5 from each special meal sold to the Houston Food Bank. This is a wonderful opportunity for diners to try new restaurants or re-visit old favorites while helping to fight hunger in Houston.

Need a sampling of restaurants participating? Here's a few....

Americas - Post Oak
Amerigo's Grille
Brenner's Steakhouse
Cadillac Bar Houston
The Capital Grille
Carmelo's Ristorante
Crapitto's Cucina Italiana
Crave Sushi
Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steak House
Denis' Seafood House
Downtown Aquarium
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
The Glass Wall
Grotto
Jasper's
La Griglia
Masraff's
The Melting Pot Fondue Restaurant - Galleria Area Houston
McCormick & Schmick's "Fresh" Seafood Restaurant
Mo's…A Place for Steaks
NOE Restaurant (at The Omni Houston Hotel)
Ouisie's Table
Pappas Bros. Steak House
Perry's Steakhouse & Grille
Pesce
Post Oak Grill - Uptown
RA Sushi - Town & Country
Rainbow Lodge
The Remington Restaurant
Ruth's Chris Steak House
Smith & Wollensky
Strip House
Sullivan's Steakhouse
Truluck's
Vic & Anthony's
Willie G's Seafood & Steaks

Click here to check out the menus of many participating restaurants.

August Vintage Park Cinema Alfresco

Movie Under The Stars this Saturday!

Ratatouille is the feature film.

Click here for details.

Home Depot Kids Workshop-August

Home Depot holds Kids Workshops the 1st Saturday of every month.

These how-to workshops are free and designed for kiddos ages 5-12. You won't receive any paint, it's optional to paint it at home. Plus first-time participants get a free apron. Every time you go you get a pin for the specific project you built to add to your apron and a certificate.

Head over to the Depot today between 9-12 and give your kids a chance to make a very cool and oh-so useful Message Center.

Melvin Adams Basketball Camp

THE Summer Camp you’ve been waiting for!

****Limited Space Available****

Melvin Adams Basketball Camp!
Former Harlem Globetrotter and San Antonio Spur

August 3-7, 2009 ◦ 9:00AM - 12:00PM

Prince of Peace Catholic Community
19222 State Hwy 249 / Tomball Parkway
‘Open to all’

Sign-up TODAY! Camp fills up…FAST!
Your child will never forget their camp experience with Melvin!

REGISTER with Peggi at 281.859.8810 ◦ merkey@sbcglobal.net

Boys and Girls ages 6-13 ◦ $125.00 per child for the week


Former Harlem Globetrotter and NBA San Antonio Spur Melvin Adams has worked with over 4 million youth at school assemblies, camps and other events. He is also a two-time NCAA All-American. Melvin is in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the fastest dribbler and has also been on the Oprah Winfrey Show. Melvin will be at the camp personally teaching BOYS and GIRLS the great skills he had to learn from being only 5’8” tall and playing on these great teams!

The GREATEST CAMP of the SUMMER!


“Changing the world one child at a time”

Kids Eat Free

This is a beast of a task...keeping up with what restaurants are gracious enough to offer free grub for the little rascals of Harris county.

As you might guess, this list changes like the wind. If you see something that isn't accurate, PLEASE give me a shout and I'll update it. It takes a village to feed kids for free! ALSO...call ahead to see what hours Kids Eat Free and if the restaurant is a participating location, just in case. Things change, gals. It's all good....just repeat after me.....It is what it is. It'll change your perspective if you can embrace that truth, daily.

Below are some other sites that also share their Kids Eat Free knowledge.

*B4-U-Eat, Kids Eat Free

*Cypress Kids Eat Free

*Cities on The Cheap

*Coupon Divas- Kids Eat Free

*Free In Houston

*Where Kids Eat Free From A-Z

*Kids Meal Deals allows you to put in a zip code and search for where kids eat free wherever you are. Nice!

*Looking for eating coupons? Check out Eat Cypress.

Kids Eat Free--Saturday

**As you might guess, this list changes like the wind. If you see something that isn't accurate, give me a shout and I'll update it. It takes a village to feed kids for free! ALSO...call ahead to see what hours KEF.

SATURDAY


Denny's-Kids eat free 4-10pm

DoubleDave's Pizzaworks (Buffet) - Everyday 11am - 2pm, Sunday 11am - 9pm, Wild Wooly Wednesdays 5:30pm - 9pm. Kids under 7 eat free during all buffets with paid adult.

Golden Corral-Kids 3 and under eat free

IT'Z -249 and Grant Rd. 2 and under eat free; 3-9 years $3.99; 10-12 years $4.99

Skeeters- kids under 4 eat a free breakfast buffet with adult buffet purchase.

Texas Land & Cattle-Kids Eat Free off the Kid's Menu w/ the purchase of an adult entree. 12 and under-limit 2 kids per adult meal. (11am-4pm).

<<<>>>

*Coupon Divas- Kids Eat Free

*Where Kids Eat Free From A-Z

*Kids Meal Deals allows you to put in a zip code and search for where kids eat free wherever you are. Nice!

Kids Eat Free--Friday

**As you might guess, this list changes like the wind. If you see something that isn't accurate, give me a shout and I'll update it. It takes a village to feed kids for free! ALSO...call ahead to see what hours KEF.

FRIDAY

DoubleDave's Pizzaworks (Buffet) - Everyday 11am - 2pm, Sunday 11am - 9pm, Wild Wooly Wednesdays 5:30pm - 9pm. Kids under 7 eat free during all buffets with paid adult.

Golden Corral-Kids 3 and under eat free

IT'Z -249 and Grant Rd. 2 and under eat free; 3-9 years $3.99; 10-12 years $4.99


<<<>>>

*Coupon Divas- Kids Eat Free

*Where Kids Eat Free From A-Z

*Kids Meal Deals allows you to put in a zip code and search for where kids eat free wherever you are. Nice!

Kids Eat Free-- Thursday

**As you might guess, this list changes like the wind. If you see something that isn't accurate, give me a shout and I'll update it. It takes a village to feed kids for free! ALSO...call ahead to see what hours KEF.

THURSDAY

Captain D’s Seafood - (all locations) $.99.

DoubleDave's Pizzaworks (Buffet) - Everyday 11am - 2pm, Sunday 11am - 9pm, Wild Wooly Wednesdays 5:30pm - 9pm. Kids under 7 eat free during all buffets with paid adult.

French Quarter Cajun Seafood –All day.

Golden Corral-Kids 3 and under eat free

IHop - (locations & times vary) - 4-8 pm. One child per adult entrée.

IT'Z -249 and Grant Rd. 2 and under eat free; 3-9 years $3.99; 10-12 years $4.99
Las Rosas Mexican Restaurant - 290 and Hwy 6. Kids eat free all day.

Ninfas -

<<<>>>

*Coupon Divas- Kids Eat Free

*Where Kids Eat Free From A-Z

*Kids Meal Deals allows you to put in a zip code and search for where kids eat free wherever you are. Nice!

Kids Eat Free-- Wednesday

**As you might guess, this list changes like the wind. If you see something that isn't accurate, give me a shout and I'll update it. It takes a village to feed kids for free! ALSO...call ahead to see what hours KEF.

WEDNESDAY


59 Diner- 249 and Gessner. Kids eat for .99 cents all day

The Backyard Grill- Jones Rd (@ West), Kids eat free after 5pm.

Blackjack's Grill - 16103 West Little York
Kids eat free all day with an adult purchase

Candelari's Pizza - 290 @ Spring Cypress. Free kids menu item with adult meal or buffet
purchase

Capulco’s Mexican Restaurant – All day. Barker Cypress and 290

Casa Ole’ - Kids eat for .99

DoubleDave's PizzaWorks (Buffet) - Everyday 11am - 2pm, Sunday 11am - 9pm, Wild Wooly Wednesdays 5:50pm - 9pm. Kids under 7 eat free during all buffets with paid adult.

French Quarter Cajun Seafood – All day.

Golden Corral – kids 3 and under eat free.

IHop - (locations & times vary) - 4-8 pm One child per adult entrée.

IT'Z - 249 and Grant Rd. 2 and under eat free; 3-9 years $3.99; 10-12 years $4.99

James Coney Island- 4pm-close, 2 kids 10 and under eat free with purchase of adult meal ($4.50 minimum)

Luby's- Kids under 10 eat for $2 after 4:30pm.

Rainforest Café - (ONLY Katy location does this, not free but reduced) Only $1.99 after 5:00pm!!

Sonic Wacky Pack Wednesday – kids meals only $1.99 - check your local Sonic

Wings 'n More- All Day kids 12 & under eat free with purchase of an adult entree


<<<>>>

*Coupon Divas- Kids Eat Free

*Where Kids Eat Free From A-Z

*Kids Meal Deals allows you to put in a zip code and search for where kids eat free wherever you are. Nice!

Kids Eat Free--Tuesday

**As you might guess, this list changes like the wind. If you see something that isn't accurate, give me a shout and I'll update it. It takes a village to feed kids for free! ALSO...call ahead to see what hours KEF.

TUESDAY

Berryhill -1960 and Champion Forest Dr. Kids eat FREE with adult meal purchase.

Black-Eyed Pea –Jones and 1960. 5 pm -close

Boudreaux’s- 249 and Gessner

Candelari's Pizza - 290 @ Spring Cypress. Free kids menu item with adult meal or buffet purchase

Casa Ole’ - Kids eat for .99

County Line BBQ- Cutten Rd and 1960All day.

Del Pueblo – After 4pm. Jones, near Grant

Doneraki's Mexican Restaurant- 1960 and Champions

Denny’s- 4 - 10pm kids eat free up to two entrees per adult

DoubleDave's PizzaWorks (Buffet) - Everyday 11am - 2pm, Sunday 11am - 9pm, Wild Wooly Wednesdays 5:50pm - 9pm. Kids under 7 eat free during all buffets with paid adult.

El Gallo - Jones Rd. near Regency Green Soft drink not included

Fazoli's- from 5 to 8pm (check your local Fazoli's for day and time). Kids meals only $.99 with purchase of adult entree / dine in only.

French Quarter Cajun Seafood – All day.

Fudruckers-4 p.m. - 9 p.m. Children ages 12 and under eat for 99¢ from the kid's menu. (Drink is included).

Golden Corral – 13145 NW Frwy (@ Hollister), Houston, 77070, #713-939-7994. kids 3 and under eat free.

IHop - (locations & times vary) - 4-8 pm One child per adult entrée.

IT'Z - 249 and Grant Rd. 2 and under eat free; 3-9 years $3.99; 10-12 years $4.99

Mama's Cajun Cuisine - 12344 Barker Cypress (across from HEB @ 290) Free kiddie burger w/adult meal

Ninfa’s – (most locations after 5pm)

Romero’s Mexican Cantina – (Longenbaugh and Hwy 6) All day.


<<<>>>

*Coupon Divas- Kids Eat Free

*Where Kids Eat Free From A-Z

*Kids Meal Deals allows you to put in a zip code and search for where kids eat free wherever you are. Nice!