Let’s clean our homes together — and make it a party!

The sun is out, the days are getting longer, and it’s the perfect time to pick up those dust rags, clear out the refrigerator, declutter the closets, and get our homes ready for spring.

Are you taking care of yourself? Sometimes, we moms can be quick to take care of everyone and everything around us, but when it comes to ourselves, we're neglectful. Self Care doesn't have to involve long, drawn-out plans. You know, that trip to the spa for a massage, or the coffee date with girlfriends... yeah, give that up! You don't have time for those indulgences EVERY DAY. Instead, focus on the basics.

You might be surprised how much of these to-dos you miss doing every day. But don't worry about the past. Start from this very moment. Or if it's already past your bedtime, start fresh tomorrow!

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.