Why wait until midnight? Get the party started early, and keep the kids busy all day long! Here's how: 

MORNING:
OPTION 1: Right after breakfast, kick off the morning fun by making a time capsule. This can be a simple cardboard box that will contain some of your child's favorite things of the past year (think small toys like stuffies, t-shirts, etc.). Also include a map / floorplan of your child's bedroom, showing where furniture and major decor items are currently arranged. Be sure to tuck in a photo of the family, seal the box tightly, and include opening instructions on the outside of the box (ex: "Do not open until January 1, 2035").

(SPONSORED BY Mamaya Health; Written by Amy Green, Mamaya Founder) -Becoming a mom is often described as magical, but for many women, the reality includes a mix of joy, exhaustion, and emotional overwhelm. For some, these challenges can snowball into postpartum depression (PPD) or anxiety, leaving them feeling isolated and struggling to cope.

Today, we’re sharing Jenna’s story—a first-time mom who faced postpartum mental health challenges head-on, finding strength through therapy and community support. Her journey highlights the importance of seeking help early and reminds every mom that they don’t have to navigate this alone.

Something magical happens when you pull the whole family into the EXACT SAME ROOM all evening... push the coffee table off to the side... set up indoor tents, sleeping bags, and sofa cushions... munch on snacks and hot cocoa... and play games or watch Christmas movies all night.

Here are some quick tips for making your Holiday Slumber Party a successful, unforgettable event!

One of the many benefits of living in The Woodlands area is all the wonderful places you can visit without having to drive too far. Here are some of our favorite Holiday Road Trips within a few hours away from home sweet home! Truthfully, my family has made "day trips" out of all 5 of these locations (it's possible), but you'll probably be more comfortable getting a hotel for the night. (pictured above - Gaylord Texan)

Teenagers can be a bit of a mystery, right? I should know, I have 3 of them! As your kid grows more independent, it can feel like you’re speaking different languages and spending lots of time apart. But don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to keep the connection strong! Below are 12 creative ways to build trust, spark conversation, and stay close with your teen, even as they navigate their changing world. 

1. Hit the gym. Teen years are a great time to introduce your child to fitness. Whether your teen is already into exercise or new to it, try a group class like yoga or kickboxing, hit the treadmill together, or show them how to safely use free weights. It’s a great way to bond while staying active. I recently re-joined The Woodlands Family YMCA with the intent of bringing my teens along with me for some of the group fitness classes.
   
   
2. Train for a 5K. You don’t need to be an experienced runner to train for a 5K. Find a simple online program, and run or walk around your neighborhood. You and your teen can build a music playlist, encourage healthy habits, and stretch together—bonding along the way. End it with the accomplishment of completing the race. Click here to check out upcoming 5Ks and other race events hosted by The Woodlands Township in 2025.
   
   
3. Visit grandparents. If you usually visit family without your teen, make a point to include them this time. Pick a day when your teen is free from school or work, and focus on spending time with the grandparents. Keep phones away, and truly enjoy the moment of three generations together.
   
   
4. Volunteer. The holidays are an excellent time to give back. Volunteer at a food bank, donate to an Angel Tree project, or help with a coat drive. Many local churches also need extra hands during holiday events. Outside of the holidays, there are many other opportunities to get involved in our community, particularly with The Woodlands Township programs.
   
   
5. Play a board game. Challenge your teen with a game you both enjoy. Whether it's Scrabble, checkers, or a trivia game, make it a fun, competitive experience. No need to rush—spend an hour or more enjoying the time together.
   
   
6. Go to a concert. Music is a great way to connect. Find a concert that you and your teen will both enjoy, whether it’s at the Cynthia Woods-Mitchell Pavilion or a smaller venue. Dress up, have a great dinner, and enjoy the night together. If concerts aren’t your thing, try a Broadway show or community theater performance instead.
   
   
7. Redecorate their room. Freshen up their space with a new coat of paint, upgraded furniture, or new décor. Let your teen help choose the style, whether it’s a cozy gaming setup or a more grown-up design. They’ll appreciate the effort, and it’s a fun project for both of you.
   
   
8. Go on a shopping spree. Take your teen shopping, just the two of you. It’s different from sending them out with friends—it gives you a chance to give advice and share your opinions on outfits. If your budget allows, treat them to a complete wardrobe makeover.
   
   
   
9. Breakfast at dawn. Surprise your teen by waking up early on a Saturday and heading to their favorite breakfast spot. Enjoy a quiet meal together and chat over coffee. Afterward, take a walk to enjoy the morning together.
   
   
10. Assemble something. Save money by tackling furniture or household items that need assembly. Make it a fun date by working together, listening to music, and sharing the experience. IKEA, here you come!
    
    
11. Read a book. You’re never too old for a good book. If you’re not comfortable reading aloud, choose an audiobook you can enjoy together. Whether it’s a novel or a joke book, make it a daily ritual to sit and enjoy the story as a team.
    
    
12. Have a photo shoot. A fun photoshoot can be a great way to bond with your teen while creating lasting memories. Instead of just posing for a traditional family photo, get creative! Let your teen pick the theme, choose quirky outfits, or even experiment with fun props. This gives them a chance to express themselves while you share laughs and enjoy each other's company. Plus, you’ll have some awesome photos to look back on, reminding both of you of the fun you had together.

Are you planning a get-together for the holidays?  Whether you're hosting a formal Christmas dinner or a festive cookie-decorating party, don't send your friends home empty-handed. Here are some fun and creative party favor ideas to add a personal touch and create lasting memories for your guests!

So, you're eager to decorate for Christmas, but your philosophy is "the simpler, the better." You’re looking for something simple, festive, and far from over-the-top—no jolly Santas, no Nutcrackers in tutus, and definitely no fake snow.

Good news! We've put together this "less is more" guide to help you add a touch of holiday sparkle to your home without going overboard with tinsel or breaking the bank. (And the best part? You can always start small, and if you're feeling festive next year, you can easily add a little more!)

(Written by Amy Green, Mamaya Founder) - Here we are at the holidays – a season of happy families, warm kitchens, soft cookies, and laughter! For many moms, it can also be a time of family and societal pressure to perform, to be gracious and giving in beautifully decorated homes, and to be perfect. Expectations like these can be overwhelming in our season of peace, and sometimes we can forget to tend to ourselves during the hustle and bustle of caring for others. 

Make your holiday gatherings extra special with these thoughtful tips that will ensure your guests feel welcomed, appreciated, and cared for. From warm greetings to thoughtful gestures, these hospitality ideas will add a touch of grace to your home this season!