Thanks for subscribing to the Houston Family Fun newsletter. In the July issue, I’ll share renewed ideas for celebrating our nation’s independence and cool ways to enjoy the summer. Don’t forget to read the newsletter’s left column for the event of the month & the Smart Thinking tip for your family. I also encourage you to check out my blog for candid commentary on Houston family life & add your comments to participate in this online community.

Celebrating Independence

For many, the U.S. Independence holiday means fireworks, picnics, flags and more festivities. It also means family time. Although the holiday falls in the middle of the week (bummer!) putting a crimp in some plans, don’t overlook the opportunities that this holiday presents. Who says you can’t celebrate all week long?

A former co-worker recently said that she missed the block parties that her neighborhood threw when she was growing up. What a great way to get to know your neighbors better. Keep it low key by:

• Emailing or calling a few neighbors. Tell them to feel free to bring others to the block party.
• Asking everyone to bring food in a disposable dish. (No need to wash & return the bowl to Joe & “what was her name?”)
• Putting out some lawn chairs and blankets in the grass. After all, it’s supposed to be outside. Just cross your fingers it doesn’t rain.
• Turning on some tunes from your radio or CD/iPod collection.
• Laying out chalk & bubbles for the kids to enjoy.
• Supervise sparklers with all children. Leave actual firecrackers to the professionals. (See my blog for fireworks around town.)
• Slicing open a watermelon or two. Yum!

Now all you have to do is decide which day of the holiday week your block party will be. Happy Independence Day!

In Search of Summer Fun

Help your kids find great summer adventures, using the book 100+ Activities for Houston Kids. You’ll find events for enjoying the warm sunshine and indoor activities when the heat is just too much. In addition to seasonal and year-round activities, the book also includes a chapter on family-friendly restaurants throughout greater Houston. When a backyard barbecue is out of the question, look up a restaurant that’s right for your family. This book can be used year after year to find fun events for your children. Order your book online or pick up your copy at any of these shops: Barnes & Noble, Berings, Borders, Blue Willow Bookshop, Brazos Book Store, Houston Invitation Service, or Olive Anne in the Heights.

Best Calendar for Houston Families

If you’d prefer a chronological listing of fun kids’ activities happening in Houston in 2007, I have the answer for you. The 2007 Houston Kids Calendar is a downloadable booklet that features a date by date account of family-oriented activities and events in our area. For only $10, you gain instant access to this valuable tool for spending quality time with the children in your life. Download your copy and get busy. It’s wonderful for summer time and autumn weekends.

Megan F. Salch

"The Kids Activity Queen"

MeganSalch@TellYourTale.com

www.TellYourTale.com/Kids