Quotables

Texas Travel :: The Children's Museum of Houston

 

 

As a child, I spent countless hours at the Children’s Museumof Houston. I remember the Japanese village where children could dress in period kimonos and write their names in traditional script. I filled child-sized shopping carts to the brim in the grocery store. I even gave reports in a pseudo news room with an On Air light blinking wildly. I loved that place!



On a recent trip to Houston, we decided to take our boys. Upon arriving, I immediately knew it wasn’t the same small store-front style museum I loved when I was their age. No, it was much better!

 

 

Still included was an updated and fabulously designed mini-city (Kidtropolis) which housed not only a technologically advanced news room and updated grocery store, but also offered a bank with ATM machines, a bike shop, a diner, a vet’s office, a police and fire station, as well as an art studio.

 

In each exhibit module, children could earn or spend play money, dress up as workers, learn about city jobs and simply engage each other in imaginary play.

 

The Museum also housed a two story fitness exhibit called Power Up which taught children all about health and exercise through carefully designed video games, interactive rock walls and a points system reward card which measured calories burned and activities completed.

 

 

One of my personal favorites was the Invention Convention exhibit where children could create and invent until the cows came home. Through the use of wind tunnels, simple robotics, electronic switches, cranks and cams, children had the opportunity to fully engage their minds and produce their own unique discoveries.

 

I think my husband found his inner child at the FlowWorks station outdoors. He and my boys were soaking wet by the end of the night. The museum could literally charge an extra $3 a ticket for this exhibit (especially in the summer). Hands-down it was their favorite!



With more than thirteen exhibit areas, as well as a traveling exhibit section, the Children’s Museum of Houston doesn’t disappoint. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 6pm and Sunday from noon until 6pm, the museum offers something for everyone. Admission is $9 per person with a discount for seniors and military.  On Thursday evenings from 5pm until 8pm, the museum hosts a Family Free Night. I do want to warn parents with children sensitive to noise and crowding to avoid these nights as it can be quite overwhelming.

 In addition to engaging exhibits, the Children’s Museum of Houston also offers a variety of programming throughout the year. Check their calendar before you visit. The museum also partners with the City Pass program so if you are visiting the Houston area, be sure to check and see what other family venues are available through that discounted program.

Cleaning Tip :: Preventing Laundry from Fading



More often than not, brilliantly colored fabrics become dull renditions of their formal selves after several cycles through the wash. It seems, beyond the simple wear-and-tear of our modern laundry devices, colors fade due to residual build-up of our detergent, waters over 130 degrees and failure to properly set fabric dyes.

Tip: The first wash cycle of new colored laundry should be without detergent. In its place, use 1 cup of white vinegar to help set the dyes. Wash on cold. If you are washing garments and not sheets, turn them inside out. You will not have a vinegar odor left behind and if you so choose, you can rewash the fabrics using your regular detergent. Dry as directed by the fabric label.

The Japanese Garden :: A Dandelion Moms Article



Head on over to Dandelion Moms and read all about creating a Japanese Garden, the fourth article in my Gardening Styles series!

- Michelle

A Peek Into Last Week

Life definitely happened last week! I think I drove over 800 miles (not all at once) with two boys (whom might I add are expert travelers) and managed to have a great time even though we were moving at warp speed!

The first half of last week found the boys and I traveling to Beaumont. As I’ve mentioned before, I serve on the Board of Directors for Longview World of Wonders (LongviewWOW), a hands-on discovery center in the making. We are busy making preparations to acquire our building, renovate it, add in exhibits, and get our center open as soon as possible. Currently, I am serving in the capacity of Facilities Chairwoman which includes many titles; of which, the newest is Exhibit Specialist. In learning more about building museums and centers (I’ve no previous experience), I went to the Texas Association of Museums Annual Meeting or conference to network in the industry, meet with an Exhibit designer and fabricator, as well as  gain more knowledge through engaging sessions.

Designing an Institutional Pinterest Board Event



In the time we were in Beaumont, I ended up sitting through 5 sessions, a meeting and an informational product seminar; exploring the Botanical Garden and Conservatory with the boys; catching a late run of TheCroods; and enjoying fresh baked goods from Rao’s Italian Bakery (Can I just say the cream cheese muffin is to die for…and the cinnamon rolls, the cannoli’s…and so forth).  

 

Saint Fiacre

Wardian Case

 

On the way home, we stopped at the Big Thicket National Preserve just North of Beaumont. With more than 100,000 acres, 10 diverse ecosystems and miles of trails, the Big Thicket is not only a unique outdoor adventure, but also a serene place for wanderers of nature. My boys thoroughly enjoyed the Big Thicket and were even made Jr. Park Rangers while we were there. . While there is not a charge to tour the exhibit hall or hike the trails; there is a free permit required for backpacking, overnight river use or hunting.



Thursday brought us to a very cold park day with our homeschooling friends. There for a moment, I was sure winter had returned! Even though we made it home the night before, I truly believe this was the busiest of my days. I had early meetings, story time, park, after lunch meetings, band, a quick house cleaning and a trip to Shreveport to pick up my husband from his return from India. Whoosh! That makes me tired just thinking about it all!

Friday was a lovely day full of family time (with a few emails and phone calls sprinkled in). Jake took us to Los Pinos for a late lunch and we just let the day unfold. On Saturday, we headed back to Shreveport for some quick shopping and a trip to the American Rose Center for geocaching; Sunday had us enjoying lunch with family and fixing collegiates’ Jeeps. It was an interesting weekend.

I’m really glad it is Monday (I never thought I would say such a thing), but this week proves to be a little less tiresome. Or at least, I’m going to pretend it will be! Hope your week is filled with excitement!

A Season for Everything Under the Sun :: A Dandelion Moms Article



Head on over to Dandelion Moms to check out my newest article A Season for Everything Under the Sun. If you are new to vegetable gardening, this will give you a brief introduction planting seasons. ~ Michelle

Spring Cleaning :: A Family Affair

Every year, I attempt my version of Spring Cleaning. Most of the time, I am fairly successful at getting everything accomplished, but I always need help.

Reason #216 Why I Enjoy My Boys! No, really, children make great helpers. Just be sure to give them easy and simple tasks; make a game out of cleaning; ensure no contact with chemicals; and praise or reward them for their hard work. Don't forget to reward yourself too!

I'd like to share my Spring Cleaning Checklist with you all. Sometimes, it can be hard to think of all the places or items which need special attention every 6 months or even once a year.

I like to put my checklist in a plastic  protective sleeve; when I've completed a task, I simply use a dry erase marker to cross it off the list. The list could also be laminated. This is a great way for children to also keep up with their responsibilities during cleaning day, week, or month!

While  the idea of Spring Cleaning has its roots in ancient history, it was first used in America during the months of March or early April because the climate allowed for a warm breezy day to aid in the removal of dust from the home. Insects were typically at their minimum, as well.

I know if this were a Summer Cleaning, instead of a Spring Cleaning, I wouldn't even think about participating; especially here in Texas.

Do you have any great Spring Cleaning solutions? Do you use a special product or have a recipe for homemade cleaning supplies? Let me know! I would love to give them a try.

Spring Cleaning Checklist

Kitchen

1. Wipe every surface down - cabinets (inside and outside), top of refrigerator, stove (inside and outside), dishwasher (inside and outside), microwave (inside and outside), and all other appliances and items on counters (Keurig, canisters, KitchenAide Mixer).

2. Refrigerator/Freezer - Thoroughly wash every bin and shelf. Clean along the gaskets. Pull out from the wall and dust. Add fresh baking soda. Discard freezer food past use.

3. Pantry - Organize. Remove expired food, if any. Replace any broken canisters. Relabel canisters as use changes.

4. Sink - Use boiling water to thoroughly clean the drains. Oil garbage disposal.

5. Clean and sanitize the trash can.

6. Double check the battery/light bulb stock

7. Replace any broken or lost dishware, Tupperware, and icing tips.

8. Dust fixtures.

9. Vacuum and mop floor.

Dining Room

1. Table - Double check the mechanics of the leaf; oil/grease of needed. Wax and polish.

2. Dust fixtures and ceiling fan.

3. Dust and repair blinds, where needed.

4. Vacuum and mop floor.

5. Dust the tapestry.

Living Room

1. Dust all surfaces - lamps, coffee tables, pool table legs, ceiling fan.

2. Clean leather furniture and apply protector.

3. Sweep out fireplace and dust the screen and mantle.

4. Book cases - Remove all books; dust the spines and tops. Dust the entire case (shelves and top).

5. Brush the pool table.

6. Check the wine supply - order more!

7. Dust and clean the curio.

8. Vacuum and mop floor, vacuum air vent.

9. Fluff chair cushions.

10. Go through magazines and save items for My Idea Book.

9. Re-adjust the automatic thermostat.

Office

1. Sort through and file all loose papers. Add to Homekeeping Notebook, file cabinet, or shred.

2. Double check printer's ink and paper supply, purchase more if needed.

3. Dust computer and clean keyboard. Ensure anti-virus program is up to date.

4. Ensure filing cabinet is in a neat order.

5. Review and update inventories, contract, and other policies.

Entryways and Hallways

1. Clean indoor and outdoor rugs/mats.

2. Wipe mirrors and art.

3. Vacuum and mop floors.

Bathrooms

1. Routine cleaning - toilets, bathtubs, showers, and sinks.

2. Wipe mirrors and art.

3. Check on toilet paper and toiletries stock; restock where needed.

4. Wipe and dust cabinets and counters.

5. Throw out expired medicines.

6. Wash all bath maths.

7. Clean and sanitize the trashcans.

8. Dust fixtures.

9. Vacuum and mop floors.

10. Reseal tub and shower if needed.

Bedrooms

1. Change and launder sheets, duvet cover, mattress pads, and pillowcases. Replace with warmer weather sheets and blankets.

2. Mattresses - rotate, vacuum, and possible sun, depending on the weather.

3. Launder pillows.

4. Dust all surfaces - furniture, art, wall hangings, light fixture, and ceiling fan.

5. Dust and repair blinds, where needed.

6. Vacuum and steam-clean the floors.

Throughout the House

1. Wipe down all switch plates, windows, and glass doors for fingerprints and pet smudges.

2. Vacuum window moldings and windowsills.

3. Wipe all doors (interior and exterior) and trims; oil hinges.

4. Wipe baseboards and moldings.

5. Replace AC filter.

7. Reseal grout.

8. Wash all windows and screens; oil hinges.

9. Wax wood furniture.

Closets

1. Dust shelves.

2. Vacuum and mop floors.

3. Organize. Purchase new undergarments if needed. Purge old, out-sized, or unwanted items.

4. Rotate wardrobe for Spring and Summer seasons.

Laundry Room

1. Vacuum and mop floor.

2. Wipe cabinets.

3. Clean washer and dryer. Check dryer vent.

4. Double check cleaning items supply; restock if necessary.

Pets

1. Inspect all pet toys to make sure they are safe; discard unsafe items.

2. Double check pet food and medications, restock if needed. Throw away expired items.

3. Inspect all cages and crates to ensure safety.

Garage

1. Organize. Discard unwanted items.

2. Check on spring planting items and needs; restock if needed.

3. Check sprinkler system. Replace broken parts.

4. Organize freezer. Discard out-dated items.

5. Straighten work bench and tool area (leaving for the husband!)

6. Organize school closet.

7. Check tire pressure in bikes; replace tubes if necessary.

8. Grease garage door.

Outside

1. Clean patios and siding - sweep, pressure wash.

2. Check gutters and repair seals.

3. Prune and fertilize roses.

4. Clean flower beds.

5. Check facets and outdoor electric plugs.

6. Replace water hoses if needed.

7. Clean outdoor furniture.

8. Clean grill and replace grate, if needed.

9. Clean ceiling fan.

10. Refill bird feeders and clean out last year's nests from bird houses

11. Wash and detail car

Please feel free to adapt my list to fit your needs - everyone's home is different!

Good luck to everyone and their Spring Cleaning! Don't forget to assign out tasks! Let me know how it goes.

 

Monthly Goals :: March Recap & April's Plans



With each new year, I try to change and grow in positive ways to enhance my life and make the most of my time. I usually blog about my weekly goals each Monday, but this year I think I'm going to take away the small goals and work on reaching my larger goals on a monthly basis. We will see how it goes!

April 2013 Goals

Did anyone see where March went? I'm really having a hard time believing we are already 3 days into April!

Home

1. Complete Spring Cleaning - we are almost finished! Just a handful of chores to complete.
2. Design out our landscaped vision for the newly acquired property and maybe give it a name. Any suggestions?

Family

1. Date night with Jake - I don't care what we do as long as we have a good time doing it!
2. Finish up our testing for this term and begin Term 3 in our homeschool year!
3. Plan a couple of weekend trips for the rest of the Spring and early Summer.

Volunteering
1. Finalize all last minute details and host the Secret Garden program at the end of the month.
2. Replant the Junior Master Gardener garden!
3. Prep for homeschool field trips

Personal
1. Continue working on 13 Things to Learn in 2013. Orchids are everywhere this time of year and I think I can master this interesting form of botany - or at least have a fun time trying.
2. Continue writing new posts, finishing blog update, and join Dandelion
Moms Project Kindness.
3. Let's try that bike ride again!
4. Plan out my new toddler story time for the month of May.

March 2013 Goals

Home

1. Build a fence on our newly acquired property. I think we finally have a
style picked out we can both agree upon! Phase I of the fence looks great : ) I must say though, I owe it all to my handsome husband and my eldest son. Thanks guys!
2. Prep and begin Spring Cleaning - this is a huge goal for the month. Be on
the lookout for upcoming cleaning posts!

Family

1. Learn how to swing dance with Jake (date night) While we did get a date night in, we did not go dancing. I promise, before the end of this year, I will learn a new dance : )
2. Take the boys to another archery competition - they did swell last time! I'm going to brag a little here! My eldest qualified for the state archery tournament in March - couldn't be prouder!
3. Spend time with grandparents
4. Help with my youngest's fashion show project

Volunteering

1. Finish Due Diligence surveys on the museum as well as prepare the
Facilities budget
2. Plant the Junior Master Gardener garden for Spring We got it planted, but Mother Nature decided we needed to replant - we lost nearly everything to a deep, deep freeze right before Easter.
3. Finalize Spring field trips for homeschool group

Personal

1. Continue working on 13 Things to Learn in 2013. This month, I'm hoping
to tackle learning how to fly fish! One of my goals this year is to learn how to build a museum. Well, I think right now it is trumping everything else.
2. Continue writing new posts, finishing blog update, and join Dandelion
Moms Project Kindness.
3. With the weather warming up, I'm hoping to get in a daily bike ride this
month as well. I know I jinxed myself as soon as I posted about warmer weather...sorry Texas!
4. Perfect my stress busting technique.


February came and went! I got a ton accomplished and I'm really looking forward to March!

Dandelion Moms Project Kindness :: Making a Difference in April

As you all know, I contribute monthly articles to Dandelion Moms, a place for beautiful, strong and resilient moms to gather online. Recently, the Head Dandelion herself, Melissa Northway, started Project Kindness - a simple idea with great potential. Melissa writes, "Much like a dandelion seed that blows in the wind landing at different places – acts of kindness can also be far-reaching. We don’t always know how much a simple act could affect someone’s life."

The best part about Project Kindness is the ease of partaking in the list of activities Dandelion Moms provides and the gratification of knowing you have had an impact on someone's life.

 

Last month, Dandelion Moms challenged readers to help build a library in the Dominican Republic. Texas Homemaking readers helped to donate 30 books for the cause. Thank you all so very much!

 

 

Project Kindness project and activities for April include:

•  In honor of Autism Awareness Month, you can participate in the Buddy Gives Back program (www.buddycruise.org) hosted by the Buddy Cruise.

• Support Loving Hugs' mission of providing new or gently used stuffed animals to children in war torn countries (www.lovinghugs.org).

• Plant flowers with your children on April 22nd, Earth Day.

• Join your neighborhood or community clean-up on Earth Day.

• Bring some old towels or blankets to your local animal shelter

If you complete any of these Project Kindness tasks, Melissa asks you share them with Dandelion Moms on their Facebook Page as well as Twitter and Instagram (make sure to use #dmprojectkindness). You are also more than welcome to post your kind acts (and photos) on Texas Homemaking's Facebook page.

Austism & Poetry ~ A Touch of April

 

The month of April was deemed Autism Awareness Month in the United States during the 1970s. Since then, autism rates have soared. American children, especially boys, and their families are facing a new way of living. 1 in 54 boys are diagnosed on spectrum, 1 in 252 girls are diagnosed as well. This month, join others in learning more about Autism and its spectrum of challenges. If you know a child with an autism spectrum disorder, take time to do any of the following for their family:

Be there - Visit over a cup of coffee or something simple in their home. Adult interaction is always welcome.

Discuss it - Sometimes, we are afraid of the unknown, but by understanding your friend's child's needs, you may find other ways to help out.

Have a play date - Set up a sensory friendly playdate in your home or theirs.

Share information - If you find something related to autism in your community, you may want to share it. Many communities have small groups or even programs geared to Autistic children.

Help with respite - Oftentimes, the day to day responsibilities get neglected. By offering to stay with an autistic child for even an hour, you can be a huge help.

In addition, you can join the Light It Up Blue campagin which encourages spreading autism awareness through our country and world. On April 2, the Empire State Building will be lit blue to mark the occasion. Why not join in?

Aside from Autism Awareness, April is also poetry month. My youngest and I write poetry together; I've always been fond of verse. In honor of poetry month, I'd like to share one of his favorite creations.

What are stars?

Are they fireworks up in the sky?

Or maybe a herd of fireflies?

Or are they great balls of gas?

Or simply a big jumbled up mess?

Maybe the are twinkling gems,

Sprinkled about planets' rims

All I know is that they glow.