In Episode 5 of Mom Life in The Woods, I mentioned the focaccia bread I make on repeat, and I promised I’d share the recipe here. So here it is. (By the way, here’s a link to listen to the episode. It’s called “Grow Something Anyway.”)

What can I do with my kids for Valentine's Day to make them feel really loved and super special?

Let's start with some cute, simple, accessible  ideas!

February is here, and while we’re all excited about hearts and chocolate, we also want to acknowledge that it's Black History Month! It’s a time to celebrate some of the incredible people and moments that have shaped America’s history, and it's a great chance to dive into stories you might not always hear about. As a Black mom, this month feels especially meaningful to me. It gives me a unique opportunity to share a piece of my own history with you and offer a glimpse into the experiences that have shaped who I am today.

Spring Break looks a little different once your kids hit the tween and teen years. They’re too old for crafts and storytime… but not quite ready to plan an entire week on their own. The good news? There are plenty of Spring Break activities in and around The Woodlands that older kids genuinely enjoy—whether they’re hanging out with family, meeting up with friends, or earning a few volunteer hours along the way.

When boys are little, mother-son date nights are easy. You dress up, you dance, you take pictures, and everyone leaves with happy hearts and sticky fingers. Even better, companies in our area usually plan at least a couple of these events that make celebrating with little ones very easy!

But then, the kids grow up.

Make way for the chilly days! We’ve been waiting for months to pull out our dusty winter wear, and the days are finally getting cold. But while 40-degree weather calls for the fun things like hot cocoa and fuzzy socks, it also means sneezes and sniffles are coming around too. Here’s our list of five natural remedies to shoo those runny noses away:

One of the sweetest (and easiest!) ways to support your baby’s early development is through hands-on play, songs, and simple routines you’re probably already doing. This Hands & Fingers infant lesson plan is designed to help babies explore movement, language, and connection—all through their hands.

Kids growing up? Yep, mine too. As our kids get older, many of us find ourselves rethinking what we keep in our homes to truly engage them, while still leaving room for younger siblings (or younger-at-heart moments). If you're enough to have a backyard pool, you might already have hangout duty covered (#justaddpizza). For the rest of us, here are some fun, practical ideas to make your home a place tweens and teens actually want to gather.

Confession time: I’m pretty sure I’ve waited in a Whataburger drive‑thru longer than I was inside Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital for my annual mammogram. Mamas, if you’re due for one, JUST DO IT. Put it on the calendar, grab one of the first appointments of the day, and check it off your list. You’ll be so glad you did.

What It’s Really Like Getting a Mammogram at Methodist The Woodlands

If fear, awkwardness, or the unknown has been holding you back, let me walk you through it, because the process is far easier (and faster) than most of us imagine.

Here’s how it goes (at Methodist The Woodlands):

You’ll arrive, check in, and either provide a doctor’s order or self‑refer (yes, you can do that  here – no appointment with your physician required). You may sign a few forms, and then you’ll wait (hopefully just briefly) before your name is called.

You’re led into a calm inner waiting area with complimentary coffee, tea, and snacks (already a win).  From there, a staff member will call your name, take you to the changing area, hand you a delightfully warm robe (truly, this detail matters) and a key for a locker to store your belongings.

Mom tip: Wear a two‑piece outfit so you only need to undress from the top.

Next, you’re guided into the imaging room where the technician explains everything clearly and kindly. She positions you, manually places one breast at a time into the machine, and steps aside while the image is taken.

Yes, the machine does compress your breast (that part is unavoidable), but it lasts less than 10 seconds per image. You might need 2–3 images per side, with a quick position shift in between. And then… that’s it.

You get dressed, return the robe, and you’re done. Peace sign, out the door, on with your day. (Marshall’s run optional but highly encouraged.)

Why It’s Worth Doing Even If You’re Nervous

Women should generally start mammograms around age 40, with options for annual or biennial screenings, but guidelines vary, with some groups recommending annual starts at 40 and others suggesting starting at 45 or even earlier for high-risk individuals. Discussing personal risk factors with a doctor is crucial for determining the best schedule.  

Let’s talk about the hesitations I hear most often from friends, colleagues, and other women:

“It’s going to hurt.”
It’s uncomfortable, yes, but not painful. And it’s brief. The discomfort lasts seconds, not minutes, and certainly not hours. Most women say the anxiety beforehand is far worse than the actual exam.

“It’s awkward or embarrassing.”
The staff does this all day, every day. They are professional, respectful, and efficient. You’ll feel cared for, not exposed.

“I don’t have time.”
You do. Truly. From parking to walking back to your car, this can take less time than a school pickup line.

“I’m scared of bad news.”
This one matters most. Early detection saves lives. A screening mammogram can find breast cancer before symptoms appear (when treatment is most effective and outcomes are best).

The Little Things That Made a Big Difference

This is not an advertisement for Methodist Hospital! It just so happens that's the one I go to, but there are many great mammogram options in the area. For my experience, I appeciated the:

• Easy, free parking
• Calm, welcoming environment
• Warm robe (worth mentioning twice)
• Efficient, compassionate staff
• Peace of mind knowing I showed up for my health

This Is One of Those Appointments You Don’t Skip

We’re great at taking our kids to checkups, sports physicals, orthodontist visits, and every appointment under the sun. This one is for you. If you’re due for a mammogram, schedule it. Choose an early appointment, treat yourself to coffee afterward, and walk out knowing you did something important for your future.

You’re strong. You’re capable. And this is absolutely something you can handle.

We've put together a FREE Winter Activity Checklist to get you out of bed and enjoying the cozy winter season.  Whether you're looking for indoor activities, outdoor adventures, or simple family bonding activities, this list has something for you. Download it now, print it, post it to your fridge, and get busy!