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FROM THE PUBLISHERS
TEAMOLOGY
AMERICA, AMERICA! GOD SHED HIS GRACE ON THEE Temperatures have risen, kids are tucked away at camp, road trips have commenced, and
backyard barbeques are smoking.
We’ve rounded the longest day of the year, June 21st,
also referred to as Summer Solstice, and now embark upon summer break mid-point, July, before we slide back into a new school year. But let’s not rush it. This Fourth of July our country celebrated its 239th year of independence from British rule. The Fourth of July is my family’s favorite holiday of the year. We wear our red, white and blue, fly Old Glory, invite family and friends over for barbeque and enjoy tons of fireworks. A celebration that we hold near and dear to our hearts and one for which the sacrifices of many we would not have the luxury to enjoy. My daughter and I drove cross-country with my cousin, a military wife and mother of four, from Seattle, Washington and home to Texas. I saw parts of the country I have never experienced before. Each time we reached a new landscape, America the Beautiful written by Katharine Lee Bates, 1913, ran through my head. I cannot help but think of how true the lyrics remain from “O beautiful for spacious skies… O beautiful for heroes proved in liberating strife.” Our country is a patchwork quilt of landscapes woven with the blood and life of those who fought for our liberties. This freedom was won at great costs and men and women still choose to serve and protect today. These men and women fight for those rights and liberties we take for granted.
It is
because of these mighty selfless warriors we have the luxury to live our lives without fear of tyranny. We at Momology understand and appreciate the detriment police officers, firefighters and our military men and women endure and we dedicate Issue 2.4 in honor of you and your families. We thank you for the birthdays, holidays, and life events that you miss in order to defend and protect us. We thank you, the mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, wives, husbands, children, extended family and friends for the separation, hardships, and heartaches you may suffer as you support these men and women. Most of all we send our deepest regrets and prayers to those who have lost a loved one in the line of duty.
Traci, Amanda & Traci ANNMICHELLE PUBLISHING
AMANDA HENSLEY
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ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: ROBYN WHITAKER MOLLY ENGLAND
AnnMichelle
AM PUBLISHED BY:
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AMANDA HENSLEY Managing Partner
TRACI COKER Managing Partner
Momology Magazine is a bimonthly publication of AnnMichelle Publishing. AnnMichelle Publishing is not responsible for any omissions or misrepresentations submitted to the magazine. Advertisers represented in this publication and their agencies assume all liability for the content of advertisements and photos. Opinions, advertisements, and articles expressed do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publisher or AnnMichelle Publishing’s employees, contractors or volunteers. Be advised many writers featured in this publication are not necessarily professionals but moms writing from personal experience and should be read as such. Reproduction or transmittal of any part of this publication is prohibited without express permission in writing from the publisher.
4
TRACI HUHN
ART DIRECTOR
ANNMICHELLE PUBLISHING
JOIN THE MOMOLOGY COMMUNITY:
momologymagazine.com
2.4 honor: IN THIS ISSUE
FEATURE
MILITARY MAMA NETWORK
COVER
IT TAKES A VILLAGE: IF YOU BUILD IT, THEY WILL COME
FEATURE
UNASSUMING HEROES SHOP
ADVERTISER’S INDEX
BLESSING OR CURSE .................................... 8 SHE SITS ALONE ............................................10
THE MODEST MOMMY ................................ 24 THINK OUT OF THE LUNCHBOX .................. 26
MOCKINGBIRD BABY ......................................
GIVE
PLAY
FAITH
IT TAKES A VILLAGE: BUILD IT AND THEY WILL COME .......................................................... 14 MILITARY MAMA NETWORK .......................18 UNASSUMING HEROES ............................... 20
SUMMER FUN ............................................... 29 SPORTS INJURY PREVENTION .................... 30
...................................... INSIDE FRONT COVER INHALE MINISTRIES ....................................... 9 JOURNEY PHOTOG .................................... 11 KELLI ALLISON | THIRTY-ONE ...................... 22 LADY E DESIGNS ....................................... 28 ATHLETIC REPUBLIC OF THE WOODLANDS .. ...................................... INSIDE BACK COVER SPACE CADETS COLLECTION COLLECTION .................................................. BACK COVER
ADVERTISERS
The Greater Houston, Texas area has over 6 million people with 50% being represented by the female population. Our readership will be extended beyond this area by means of digital publication as well as an accompanying website and social platforms. Using the phrase “Perfectly Mixed, Perfectly Matched” we seek to encourage moms to embrace their mommy place in life and realize that as long as they are doing the very best they can, they are the perfect mommy for the children that call them MOM. Studies have indicated that the buying power of women in the United States is continuing to increase, with women accounting for over 85% of all consumer purchases and seventy-five percent of women identifying themselves as the primary shoppers for their household (askingsmarterquestions.com, 2014.) For a media kit, visit momologymagazine.com or contact Shannon Hardesty at (225) 316-8837 or shannon@allymacconcepts.com.
STORY IDEAS
Do you know someone who has an interesting or inspiring mom story? Sure you do! Just like all kids are different, all moms are unique in their experiences, perspectives and talents. We want to learn and grow from these different walks in the daily life of a mom and invite you to send your story starters to stories@momologymagazine.com.
PERFECTLY MIXED, PERFECTLY MATCHED
5
HOBBIES & HEROES
Duncan is a connoisseur of all things bugs! While chatting with his Mom, Deborah, Duncan was educating us on the differences between moths and butterflies, and how to tell them apart, while walking through the Houston Museum of Natural Science Butterfly Exhibit. He holds no fear when it comes to handling rare and amazing bugs. Future entomologist here? Quite possibly! Duncan, the bugs are lucky to have at least a few fans like you in the world!
Duncan
age 11
DOES YOUR CHILD HAVE AN INTERESTING HOBBY OR FAVORITE HERO? WE WANT TO FEATURE THEM!
We believe that it is incredibly iimportant to learn who you are. Hobbies and heroes help children develop a sense of self worth and confidence. If your child would like to be featured in the magazine, please send their first name along with a high resolution photo and a short description of why they like their hobby or hero for consideration in a future issue. You may submit it to Stories@momologymagazine.com
6
HONOR HIM THROUGH
faith
PERFECTLY MIXED, PERFECTLY MATCHED
7
Blessing or Curse? BY ROBYN WHITAKER
A
deep sigh emerged along with its synchronized eye roll. An all too familiar and
be the man he is meant to be. It has been
automatic response - truthfully, a well-honed self-protective reaction to hurt since
profound - for both of us.
childhood. The air was NOT filled with, “You idiot!” Or sentences marked with harsh expletives. No words were needed. I had just cursed my husband.
Gosh, I love having his eyes, the look and feel of his strong shoulders and masculine
Did I just hear a gasp in response to my last sentence… maybe even a raised eyebrow
presence, his kind voice and tender heart!
or two? Feeling a bit convicted? Or is it more like this, “Wow Robyn, I’ve never cursed
And that, ladies, is all you’re going to get
anyone.” Really? If you say never... I don’t believe you.
from me! There is so much more.
I watched my husband’s strong shoulders sag, diminishing his 6’ 1” frame. Then that little
The dishwasher - I could have turned,
spot on his jaw set and began to twitch. His eyes dropped as his heart visibly withdrew into
walked away and let death hang in the
silence.
air. Sadly, I’ve done that more than I’d
Yes, I sometimes get discouraged, disappointed, even hurt in our relationship. Things go
care to admit. Funny how easy that feels
wrong or not how I’d like or even not my way. There is conflict and misunderstanding. Left
at the time. It just seems less complicated
unaddressed, I start feeling like I’m too much. My first line of defense is contempt. Guns
in the moment to hide our hearts. Yes, even
blazing inside, I push him away because, after all, I don’t need him anyway. For, you see,
with this man who knows me better than
I think I can walk in the hollows just fine all by myself.
anyone on this earth and whom I deeply
My curse was over something rather petty. Often, that’s how it goes. Yes, I know all about
love - because honestly, he can hurt me
keeping small accounts. And life happens, you get complacent, think it doesn’t really
more deeply and bring me greater joy than
matter. After all, you can handle this one and you just let things slide – or so you think.
any other.
Suddenly they are huge.
I have two choices – blessing or curse.
I mean, haven’t I told him a bazillion times? That light on the dishwasher is supposed to
So this time, I remembered who I am, let
tell you if the dishes are clean or dirty. Ah, but it wasn’t about the light and it wasn’t about
go of being right, turned and confessed
putting dirty dishes away in the cabinets or the tiny bit of added effort to reload.
my ugly contemptuous heart. Then spoke
I felt stupid, set up by a small green light, then angry with Bob. Such an intelligent man
words of blessing over his kind heart that
and he can’t remember a little light? In a flash, previous moments from our busy schedules
helps around the house after working long
pressed my heart in a weighty collective. Shame exploded in my chest and burned my
days with a lengthy commute to provide.
face. It seemed he had time to remember so many other things. I felt missed, not seen or
Together
we
have
committed
to
a
heard and my voice not honored the past week. All of which validated to my heart - that
contempt free marriage. No magic words.
I was indeed way too much.
Oh how I wish! Wouldn’t that be so lovely?
A young voice erupted with largeness – “There is no way I’m going to let him hurt me!”
Reality is that contempt rears its ugly head
Mount Dishwasher was the last stand, with a sigh as my shield and dagger eyes. I was
from time to time, but we have a foundation
ready and armed.
of truth to build upon.
And I told him, loudly, with no words, that he was not enough.
It has been said that blessings fill the room
Did you know that God created women to be life givers? Yes, physically, but also in
with the Kingdom of Light and open the
relationship. And whether you are a woman who is single, married, divorced, widowed or
expansive glory of the heavens. Blessings
have children or not - it is how God uniquely created you, uniquely created me.
are Kingdom of God words. As the sun
When we curse, we open the dark world that will fill the room and begin to turn hearts
began to set, my kitchen was bursting with
against one another and ultimately against the heart of God. (Dan Allender) Sure sounds
glorious light and the life giving words of
like death to me.
God’s Kingdom.
To bless takes some intentionality on our part. It comes from a heart of forgiveness, love and gratitude. Not contempt. Oh and dang-it… you cannot hide when you are blessing. Ladies, bringing life to our relationships is laborious, costly, glorious work. Recently, I had a chance to bless my husband. When you give a blessing it says, “There is nothing I hold against you to where my heart hides from you.” Oh my… indeed! Some work was in order for this woman’s heart. It was brutal and beautiful – “brutiful”. Today, I am still seeing the power of naming and reminding Bob of who he truly is and calling him to
8
So ladies, take a risk, go fill a room with life and light! Remember who you are. It is your destiny. Mine too. ◙
™ M
LIV
I
V O L E.
N
I
S
H . E H AT E R E. B
T
R
I
E
S
inine soul. m e f e h t r ope fo
• Inhale Weekends • 4 Winds Retreats • O2 Events • Counseling For More Information Contact Robyn at InhaleMinistries@gmail.com InhaleMinistries.org
PERFECTLY MIXED, PERFECTLY MATCHED
9
SHE SITS ALONE (a work in progress) BY TRACI HUHN
C
atching a glimpse of herself in the window of the minivan, Taylor brushes
loose strands of hair away from her face and straightens her blouse. Her faded black pants are a far cry from Prada and her flowy blouse was plucked straight from the clearance rack of the local Target. The leather is worn on the Miche® handbag she carries and her polka dot flats have seen better days. Still, Taylor thinks she transitions nicely from the yoga-pants and t-shirt clad Work from Home Mom she’s used to seeing in the mirror. Securing the toddler’s hands in her own, she makes a mental note to look up the price of a replacement handle
YOU ARE THE POTTER
I AM THE CLAY
for her purse and focuses her attention to getting in to church service on time. She pretends that the whole family is there, even though she left her better half snoring peacefully in bed as the rest of the family scrambled to get ready and rushed out
MOLD ME & MAKE ME
the door. As she gets closer to the doors,
THIS IS WHAT I PRAY.
grand entrance with her Fabulous Five.
she takes a deep breath and puts on her Sunday morning smile before making a Blake and Bella, the youngest of the bunch, rush into the lobby with excitement, ready to play with their Sunday School friends. Their older brother, Justin, who has recently completed fourth grade, casually follows their lead, with the teenagers lagging slightly behind in not-so-subtle protest. Today’s greeter, a woman in her late fifties, stops Taylor with a meddlesome smile and boldly inquires, “Are all of these your children?” to which Taylor says “Yes, they are.” The woman then peers at Taylor over the rim of her 1950s style spectacles and says ever-so-sweetly “Oh my goodness, I’m going to be praying for you!” Taylor wasn’t quite sure what to say. Thank you? I mean, sure she could use all the prayers she could get but what about the women out there that can’t have children? Or the ones who do, only to lose them hours later. Taylor often feels guilty thinking about how all five of her children made it into the world in perfect health or about how, despite several heartbreaking miscarriages, she and Scott have had no problems conceiving.
10
Putting her thoughts aside before she said something foolish she would regret later,
He didn’t share her beliefs and while he
Taylor mumbled a quiet “Thank you” and headed down the hallway to begin the drop
was perfectly okay with her taking the kids,
off process. She has it down to a science – first she drops off Blake, who still has trouble
he just wasn’t into it. She would have to find
focusing and tends to wander out of sight, then Bella since they are on the same hallway.
another way to fit in among the thousands
After that, she walks Justin to his classroom before dismissing the teenagers to youth
of wedded couples and hopeful singles
services, thankful they were there to help wrangle the toddlers.
in the church. After all, she had made a
Once everyone is settled, she takes a deep breath, checks her appearance one more
promise to God to honor Him by bringing
time in the closest ladies’ room and, deciding to skip the latte since she lost five minutes
the kids up in church. She would have to
when Bella threw a tantrum about getting out of the car, she quietly and timidly enters
trust Him for comfort and wisdom in the
the sanctuary with her head held slightly down. She has a tiny glimmer of hope when she
whole church situation. But why did it have
notices Cassidy in the aisle, only to realize seconds later that it was actually another very
to be so hard? Her heart feels heavy, yet
short, beautiful blonde and Cassidy was nowhere in sight.
empty, as she realizes that today was
Cassidy and Will were the first people from the church to acknowledge Taylor. To
another one of THOSE days. Taylor finds the
everyone else, she felt as if she were invisible. And she was positive that the young married
least conspicuous empty chair – and there
couple sought her out solely because she had emailed inquiring about their Young
she sits alone. To be continued.
Marrieds Sunday school class. Nonetheless, they were the nicest people she had ever met in church and anytime she ran into them, they welcomed her with a big hug and genuine
You are the potter,
friendship.
I am the clay,
Outside of church, Taylor had no problem making friends. In fact, most people that she met loved her. She could be a little eccentric at times, but her down-to-earth,
Mold me and make me, This is what I pray.
nonjudgmental take on life and giving spirit made people feel comfortable and at home
Lyrics from “Change my Heart, Oh God” a
in her presence. That is why it was so hard to walk into a big church and feel so alone. If
hymn by Eddie Espinosa
Scott would only commit to accompanying her to church once in a while … she brushes that thought aside. She’d been down that road a time or two and the answer was simply
©2015 Traci Huhn, All Rights Reserved.
‘no’.
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11
Top 7 Methods to Simplify Motherhood By Molly England
7 Wear Maxi Dresses
4 Find Something You Love Outside of
In the warm (sweltering – if you live in Texas) summer months, what
Motherhood and Pursue It
better way to keep your style low key and effortlessly chic, with a
I recently became a Certified Bradley Method® of Natural
flowy maxi dress. Both fashionable and stylish with no leg shaving
Childbirth Educator and this has actually provided me with more
required! The longer the better to cover un-manicured toes too.
energy. The buzz I get from coffee pales in comparison to the
Not to mention when the self-tanning goes awry, call in your
adrenaline rush I experience from teaching. This type of energy is
maxi dress for full coverage! For many mothers, myself included,
deeply rooted in my soul, igniting a vitality that I thought I lost in the
showering is a lost art. Finding time to shave your legs is a luxury
sea of sleepless nights and unyielding demands of motherhood.
reserved only for date night. Enjoy my tip and worry no more; the maxi dress will cover up your secrets.
3 Get to Know Your Neighbors We live in the suburbs and really do have the ideal relationship
6 Call Your Grandparents
with our neighbors. Whether I need to borrow an egg or I am in
There is nothing more grounding than catching up with your
need of wine and girl talk, our neighbors are unfaltering. I lose my
grandparents. If they are no longer with us, call an older cousin, aunt
keys on a regular basis and the neighbors have saved us every
or uncle. Touching base with your parents can be compounded
time. Thank you to them for unlocking the spirit of community.
with strings and baggage, but grandparents are there to smother and love. After talking to my grandparents, I am invigorated by
2 Stop Comparing
their wise anecdotes and encouraging words. I feel youthful and
As parents we need to be aware of our child’s developmental
rejuvenated with a sense of where I came from, which helps me
milestones. But comparing their abilities to other children is only
navigate where I’m going in my role as a mother.
creating an unhealthy competitive atmosphere. It is beneficial to
5 Give In To Your Coffee Habit If you’re working on a family financial budget, often one of the first suggestions for cutting back is to do away with coffee expenses. I beg to differ. My coffee habit is for the safety of my family and
feel inspired by other children’s achievements and introduce new goals, but we must value our children as individuals with their own intrinsic strengths.
1 Exercise
therefore supersedes any budgetary restrictions. Without coffee, I
Spend 30 minutes a day doing something outdoors that gets your
can’t communicate, drive, let alone parent, so therefore take my
endorphins pumping. If running feels impossible, start by walking.
advice, drink up. It’s for your family’s safety.
If walking is too high impact, swim. My 97-year-old grandfather exercises every day and if that isn’t enough of a testament I don’t know what is.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Molly England is a proud mother of three wonderful children living in The Woodlands, Texas with her a loving husband Steve. She is a devoted blogger and a passionate Bradley Method® of Natural Childbirth Educator. Recently Molly began her own company, Bluebonnet Babies. Bluebonnet Babies provides resources based on evidence, research, experience and love for parents making healthy and informed choices. Through her blog, Molly is able to achieve her goal of empowering families across the world as they navigate pregnancy to parenthood. Molly England, Certified Bradley Method® Natural Childbirth Educator molly.england@bluebonnetbabies.com 281.895.1263 www.bluebonnetbabies.com www.facebook.com/bluebonnetbabies
12
# to #
GIVING
It takes a village ...
IF YOU BUILD IT, THEY WILL COME
BY TRACI HUHN
W
hen you hear the popular phrase “it takes a village,” the ending of this old African
mind so much, because she developed
Proverb most likely pops into your mind automatically. This ancient wisdom rings true
extraordinary
skills.
Each
new
place held a new best friend and new
primarily on mom and dad, the community in which we live still helps mold and shape our
opportunities. Earliest memories take her
children as they mature throughout life.
back to living in foreign countries where
If you turn back the clock even in these United States, you could see an actual village
she grew up with people from around the
at work - like Mayberry from The Andy Griffith Show and Walnut Grove in Little House
world. She learned that the world was a big
on the Prairie - where
place – that no one person is better than
everyone knew everyone
another, just different. Her family moved
by name. If the owner of
so much that she became accustomed to
Bob’s grocery store in town
introductions and interviews when walking
saw your kid running into
into a room full of new people. Eventually
the street after a ball, he
she would learn that these people from
would stop what he was
her childhood were stepping stones of the
doing to make sure he was
path that would later pave her future.
safe, lecturing him about
Deborah always felt that she needed
the dangers of playing in
to do something great with her life –
the street.
In these small
something where she could give back to
towns, every person had
people in a big way – perhaps become a
an influence on your child.
pediatric neurosurgeon.
What does the village look
“As a college student, I had to figure
like today? Well … you
things out on my own. There were no
have to build it.
guidance counselors like we have now. are
I learned quickly to make decisions. Even
not solely made up of
wrong decisions are decisions,” Deborah
people in your immediate
reflects.
Today’s
villages
proximity.
Rather,
we
It was Deborah’s cousin who led her
of
to the decision that would ultimately
people to count on when
help her find her calling. “You like to do
we may need a little extra
everything,” her cousin said, “I think the
support. This community
job that would do it for you is working for
allows us to breathe a little
CBS Network.” Connecting the dots much
easier, but also provides a
later, Deborah realized that what she did
way for us to expand our
on the playground at a very young age
child’s worldview. No one
would become the basic foundation of her
can build an entire village
career.
develop
14
people
even today. In our independent and individual-driven culture where the responsibility lies
a
network
in one day – it is a gradual process that you must invest your time and heart into over a
After obtaining her degree in Radio/
period of time. The size of your network no longer depends on the size of your town, but on
Television from University of Texas at
the work you put into developing relationships with people. And the more that you invest
Austin, Deborah worked in radio for two
in your village, the more it gives back.
years before beginning a lengthy career
Deborah Duncan began building her village long before she ever knew why she would
in television. She played the role of both
need one and continues to invest her time and heart into it today. As a military kid, she
anchor and talk show host on various sets
moved a lot - from place-to- place, culture-to- culture and school-to-school. She didn’t
in Austin, New York and Dallas before
settling into her current role as the host of Great Day Houston on Houston’s KHOU-11 network. In 1997, while she was taping in New York, Deborah had a sobering experience. She was filming her new show Our Home and felt very content in her career – life was perfect. One day, she woke up, looked in the mirror and felt like she was going to die. The pain in her head was excruciating. Her first thought was to go to the set where her first guest was, coincidentally, a physician. He concluded that she simply had a headache, but because she typically didn’t experience headaches, she knew something else was wrong. Regardless, she decided she could tape the morning show, go to the doctor at lunch and get an MRI, come back and finish taping and have surgery that night. Instead her doctor’s visit at lunch turned into an immediate
This inspired Deborah to follow his example
admittance to the hospital. As Deborah
with her son Duncan. Apparently, Duncan
Having a child can throw a curveball into
fought for her life, friends, family and fans
is not fond of math homework. One day he
fulfilling the calling on your life and your
began to come forward to offer support.
was grumbling about doing his homework
career, but for Deborah, having a strong
One restaurant even catered the entire
when he wanted to play a video game
support system in place allows her to be
neuro ward on her behalf! The village that
instead. Deborah told him, “You can play
both an amazing mother and a fantastic
she had built was coming forward in her
your video game after you do a reasonable
television host. In fact, just the other day she
time of need. Deborah beat the odds and
amount of your math homework.”
was reminded of that old African Proverb
returned to work. But now, she knew she had more to do.
“How many pages do I have to do?” asked Duncan.
tiptoe around them,” she said.
when her mom was in the emergency room and she was called on to be there
She replied “A reasonable amount.”
for her. She taped quickly taped her show,
her. She can take an informative story and
After a while Duncan exclaimed, “That’s
then went to see her. Realizing her son
give it an inspiring twist. She knows how
it, I’m not doing one more page of this
needed to be picked up from school, she
to connect with people, which is what
math homework tonight!” When Deborah
called her husband to help. When she got
makes her so good at what she does.
checked his work, she learned that he had
home, she found out that there was no
But it also gives her tools to fulfill her most
finished five pages … out of six. Needless to
AC in the house. Luckily, one of Duncan’s
important role. While most know her today
say, this was one of those “Aha!”parenting
friends’ dad owned an AC repair business
as Deborah Duncan, television host of
moments for Deborah.
and came to their rescue. “Sometimes it
Deborah is an inspiration to all that know
Great Day Houston, Duncan knows her
Just like any other mother, Deborah has
feels like one thing after another and you
on a much more personal level – he calls
learned some lessons along the way. One
just have to slow down, take a deep breath
her “mom” and is fortunate to have her
of her favorite moments of motherhood
and handle one thing at a time,” Deborah
as his biggest role model. Deborah shares
was what she calls the “Magic Cheetos”
said. “And it’s okay to ask for help from
a little bit about her parenting style and
moment. When Duncan was younger, he
those around you.”
philosophy.
asked for Cheetos and she gave him some.
When asked what words of wisdom she
“We are often so busy telling them [our
When he asked for more, she told him they
had for our readers, Deborah’s answer
kids] what to do that they do not learn to
were all gone. Duncan looked at her in
made us smile.
do it themselves” Deborah said. She told
disbelief. “Show me the bag in the trash,”
“It’s not about perfection. Love the child
a story of a father and his teenage son. In
he said. Deborah said “I’m sorry, I lied, they
you have, not the one you think you want.”
lieu of a curfew, this clever father tells his
are not really gone, I just didn’t want you to
In other words, we are all Perfectly Mixed,
son to be home at a “respectable hour.”
have anymore right now.” She realized in
Perfectly Matched” to those who call us
When the boy asks his father what time is
this moment that her son responded better
mom. ◘
a respectable hour, his reply was the same
to her when she was just honest from the
“a respectable hour.” Remarkably, the boy
start. “Don’t be afraid to say ‘no’ to your
came home at 10:00pm!
kids because you’re the parent. Don’t
PERFECTLY MIXED, PERFECTLY MATCHED
Nativiti Staff
15
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Star Gazer Dinner Cruise Photo Source: www.conroetoday.com
Photo Source: waterpointmarina.com
JULY 7/10 - 7/26 Stepping Out - A Play with Dancing The Owen Theatre, Conroe, TX Fridays and Saturdays at 8PM Sundays (19th & 26th) at 2PM Tickets range from $18 - $22. This comedy chronicles several months of a beginning dance class. Each of the 8 students, who come from a variety of backgrounds, has his own reasons for joining the class. owentheatre.com
7/17 Feast of the Artisans Farmers Market Southern Star Brewing Company 1207 North FM 3083 Road East Conroe, TX 5PM - 9PM Shop for local, homegrown produce and show your support for independent artists, farmers, designers and crafters from around the area. conroetoday.com
7/19 National Ice Cream Day Children’s Museum of Houston 1500 Binz St. Houston, TX 1PM Beware the brain freeze and make your own ice cream in celebration of National Ice Cream Day. houston.culturemap.com
7/25 Safe Sitter Program C.K. Ray Recreation Center 1203 Callahan Avenue Conroe, TX Admission is $25 per resident and $31 per non-resident. The City of Conroe is offering a Safe Sitter Program for students, ages 11 and up to learn about how to properly take on the role of a babysitter. conroetoday.com
AUGUST 8/1 - 9/7 Houston Restaurant Weeks City-Wide Established in 2003, HRW is a funfilled dining event benefiting the Houston Food Bank. Held simultaneously in restaurants in the greater Houston area, Houston Restaurant Weeks is the largest single annual fundraiser for America’s largest food bank. Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of Houston’s best restaurants at a reduced price, and give back to a great cause! HRW menus are available at particular times as set by the restaurant. houstonrestaurantweeks.com
8/8 Hats & Heels Benefit Dance Conroe Activity Center 1202 Callahan Avenue Conroe, TX 6:30PM - 10:30PM Admission is $10 per person. You’re invited to throw on your favorite hats and heels, dance with us, enjoy dinner, live music and entertainment, silent auction, door prizes, and so much more to benefit the Conroe Meals on Wheels Program. conroetoday.com
8/15 Grease Sing-A-Long The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion 2005 Lake Robbins Drive The Woodlands, TX 8PM / Doors open at 6:30PM Tickets: $15 & $10 Reserved / $5 Lawn woodlandscenter.org
8/22 13th Annual Fall Home and Garden Show The Woodlands The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel & Convention Center 1601 Lake Robbins Drive The Woodlands, TX Saturday 9AM - 7PM Sunday 10AM - 6PM $9 per adult, $8 per senior, and children under 12 free Find new home products and
A Market of Fresh Local Produce, Food, & Art resources for home projects or for a dream custom home. This is the one-stop shopping destination for homeowners who want to build, remodel or improve indoor or outdoor living areas or build a custom home. Over 200 Home Improvement Professionals (and custom home builders) feature the newest products and services on the market. woodlandsshows.com
Weekends Through 9/27 Space: A Journey to Our Future Space Center Houston 1601 NASA Parkway Houston, TX 10AM - 6PM Immerse yourself in the interactive exhibit “Space: A Journey to Our Future,” now at Space Center Houston houstonpress.com
For more community events in the Greater Houston area, visit momologymagazine.com/ events.
®
P E R F E C T LY M I X E D , P E R F E C T LY M ATC H E D
is looking for Moms of all ages! We’ll be doing a Momology photo shoot in September® or October to use as a part of the Momology Brand. We want to show our readers how we’re all P E R F E C T LY M I X E D , P E R F E C T LY M ATC H E D
Contact us at stories@momologymagazine.com if you’d like to be one of these faces!
Date to be determined. Makeup can be provided. Please email us with names and ages of those you’d like to participate - Kids welcome and encouraged.
MILTARY MAMA
NETWORK BY ANDREA GAUL
Betsy Denmon is a “military mama.” Or “momma,” if you’re from the south. “I have to think about which way it’s spelled constantly!” said Betsy, in reference to Military Mama Network. “But it’s definitely spelled ‘mama.’ ‘Momma’ is a southern thing.” “Southern things” are known to be sweet, (the sweeter the iced tea, the better!) warm (like those long summer nights) and most importantly, full of love. Despite the fact that they don’t use the southern spelling, Betsy describes Military Mama Network, a
national,
non-profit
organization
for
which she will soon be starting the Houston chapter, as nothing short of these qualities. “The inspiration behind Military Mama Network is that our military feels our love and support in all aspects of their military career.”
Pictured Left: Wear Blue Walk
18
Military Mama Network strives to tangibly support our military and their families, both at
“I strongly feel that we must take care of
the national and local level. “At the national level, we are there to support the already
our community. We have vets in Houston
established soldiers,” said Betsy. She says local chapters can pick an additional ‘item,’ or
that we can bring a meal for, send a card
area, to help with in addition to supporting at the national level.
to, or just play a game of dominoes with.” She noted that the Houston chapter is
When asked to describe this organization with a single word, Betsy chose “network,”
involved in “Wreaths Across America,”
saying, “Networking is our most powerful tool.” She explained that social media, specifically
and that she is working with a local high
their Facebook page, is how they ‘get the word out’ about how to help members of
school to get youth involved as well. “I was
Military Mama Network and their families.
moved to tears by how many headstones did not have wreaths due to
Military Mama Network exists for the new families who have just sent
lack of funding. Every soldier deserves to be honored.”
a child off to boot camp, and also for the deployed soldiers in the field.
The Houston chapter of
They support our troops at any stage
Military Mama Network will
of their service, including stateside.
hold its first meeting on July
“We gather supplies, put together
25th at 6:00 p.m. at Spring
care packages, and send them
Creek BBQ on 5935 HW6
where they need to go,” said Betsy.
North. “This will be a meet
“We also will just listen to a new
and greet where we will
military mom talk and cry and realize
determine the needs of our
their child is out of the house.”
local military families and how we can best serve
Betsy knows this feeling. Her son
them.”
Betsy
Tyler, who is the driving force behind
readers
her involvement with Military Mama
meeting and find out how
Network, will have been in the
they can help.
to
encourages come
to
a
military for three years in October. “I still have every text he has sent since he left for boot camp. No matter what’s going on or
“If we help a soldier in a war zone area,
where I am, if my phone lights up with his name, my world stops until I get off the phone.”
that same soldier may someday take our loved one under his/her wing to help them
Betsy is personally involved in Military Mama Network by sending care packages to
adjust to war zone life. We really believe
deployed troops, making donations, sending cards and letters of encouragement,
in the ‘pay-it-forward’ idea. These are our
assisting traveling troops and their families, fundraising to support local veteran and military
babies. This is our life.”
organizations, and participating in one-on-one support with other members. Soldiers like Tyler need more than just their mother’s love and care, however. The phrase added to “Military Mama Network” is “& A Few Good Men,” as supporting the military is
Thank you note:
not exclusively a “mama’s” job. “We include dads, uncles, grandfathers and brothers,” said Betsy. “We wanted to make sure that no one felt left out in supporting our new and old soldiers.”
Betsy wanted to say a special ‘thank you’ to Laura Dewald, Emily Thompson and ‘she who shall not be named,’ who make up her
Furthermore, Betsy believes that supporting our military is everyone’s job, regardless of whether or not your loved one is serving. “Everyone is affected,” started Betsy. “It is about
leadership team. Without them none of this would be possible.
giving everyone an opportunity to fully support our men and women who sacrifice and put their lives on the line for our freedom. You do not have to have a family member in the military to provide this support.” “We are really excited to start working with our military and families on a more personal level,” said Betsy regarding the start of the Houston chapter of Military Mama Network. “The national chapter saw the benefits of local chapters that provide focus on a smaller scale.” Betsy says that she, along with a few other Houston members, will focus on national tasks as well as host local events.
PERFECTLY MIXED, PERFECTLY MATCHED
19
UNASSUMING HEROES By Alison Scott
“I have never accepted what many people have kindly said, namely that I inspired the Nation. It was the nation and the race dwelling around the globe that had the lion heart. I had the luck to be called upon to give the roar.”
A
- Sir Winston Churchill
s civilians, we watch their stories
remarkable story of the Dial family. A story I wouldn’t be telling, if it wasn’t for the incredible
on
amount of pride Sandi Dial has for her children.
TV
and
we
celebrate
their
homecomings. Sometimes we follow their
At sixteen years old Sandi Dial was on her own, not long after she became a single
love stories on social media (like Taylor
mom of two children with no place to live. By the grace of god, she and her children
Morris and his girlfriend Danielle), and
were taken under the wing of a kind Nun that helped them get back on their feet. As her
sometimes we’ll even vote for them on
children grew, her son started showing an affinity for military life.
Dancing with the Stars, (like we did with Noah Galloway). At some point, we begin to feel like we
In high school, her son Johnathan was the Commander of his high school’s ROTC. After
know them just because we follow their
graduation, and a short stint at Texas A&M University, Johnathan decided to follow his
Facebook pages or watch them on TV.
dream of military life.
However, the reality is that no matter how
He went on to become a Sgt., serving in the Army Med. Corp.
many times we “like” their photos or read
As a member of the Med. Corp., one of his primary responsibilities was training medics
their posts, we will never really know their
both here in the states, and while deployed. It was a position he loved and took great
truth.
pride in. As you might imagine he formed very strong bonds with his trainees and fellow
Even if we have a personal connection with a solider, rarely will they open up and discuss their time spent in the military. They normally keep those experiences close to their chests. Most are humble and unassuming, and shy away from any type of acknowledgement and/or recognition. That is why I am so honored to share the
20
Not surprisingly, considering members of the Dial family have served in our Nation’s military for generations.
medics. Therefore, when he was faced with the unthinkable task of trying to save “his medics” when their base was hit, we can only guess the emotional toll it took on him. Regardless, Johnathan made a valiant effort to save each and every one of his “brothers”. In some cases even putting his hands in their chests in attempt to keep their hearts beating. Unfortunately, despite his best efforts many of his men died that day. Nevertheless, Johnathan soldiered on….. After serving a total of 8 1/2 years in the Army, he decided he wanted to be discharged. Primarily, so he could be more of a presence in his children’s lives.
However, before he was discharged he received a handwritten letter from a five star general calling him “the best damn medic he had ever seen.” Nowadays, Johnathan is the Manager over the Sterilization Department at one of Houston’s top hospitals. Not to be left out, his sister Samantha, a single mom of two boys also served in our Army as an Electrical Calibrator. A MOS which few woman ever sign up for. That being said, she received the highest score not only in her class, but the highest score they had seen in the previous twelve years. Ultimately, she ended up serving our country for 4 years before she developed cervical and uterine cancer, and was Med-Boarded out. When she returned home she faced her fight against cancer with a soldier’s mindset, and won. Most recently, she was hired on the spot at Baker Hughes due to her brilliant mind and the advanced technical skills she developed while serving in the Army. Without question, this family represents the very best of us. From homelessness to following their dreams, from overcoming cancer to achieving career success, this family is the epitome of strength and determination. In closing, I want to leave you with something Sandi told me that her son had shared with her regarding his time in the Army. He said: “I don’t want to be thanked for doing something I WANTED to do.” Which is a sentiment most of our soldiers share, but it doesn’t mean we have to listen……. so…… Thank you to all who served, and their families who supported them!◘
PERFECTLY MIXED, PERFECTLY MATCHED
21
KELLIALLISON.COM
Kelli Allison AN ORGANIZED LIFE | EST. 2015
Kelli is a mom who loves creative projects, DIYs, baking and ANYTHING chocolate. She gets excited about cleaning and organization, which makes her job as an Independent Thirty-One Consultant a perfect fit. Follow Kelli’s blog at kelliallison. com for organization tips and tricks and how you can use your Thirty-One products to simplify your life as a busy mom. Shop with her at https://www.mythirtyone.com/KelliAbueita/.
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22
WE #
ShopPING
PERFECTLY MIXED, PERFECTLY MATCHED
23
BY: AMANDA HENSLEY We’re at the end of our Dressing Your Body Type journey and have arrived at the ever so coveted Hourglass Shape. You ladies are so blessed! Listen, I was one of those pregnant women that just got a belly and didn’t gain much weight, which comes with the side dose of all other women secretly hating you (in a fun-loving way). Hourglass figures are kind of the same way, you lucky ducks! Why? You ladies get to wear, basically, whatever you want! And the rest of us are instantly jealous of you. See? OK, in all seriousness, dressing the hourglass body shape definitely has its perks, but there a few things you’ll want to keep in mind, most of which have to do with height and leg length.
DO Wear These
Everything that we’ve mentioned thus far are great best practices no matter the body type. For example, buying classic pieces for your closet is not only figure friendly, but also budget friendly as these pieces never go out of style. We’re talking about a little black dress, white tailored shirt, neutral colored slacks that are straight cut, not pleated, neutral blazers without shoulder pads, classic style shoes, etc. If you stick with one trendy item such as a shirt, jewelry or scarf, then you’ll not only highlight that piece, but you’ll save your wallet when fashion styles change faster than the seasons. Always remember to balance your outfits as well so you don’t end up with a super flowy top and extra voluminous skirt, because no matter what body shape you are you’ll appear overdone.
DON’T Wear Those
We mentioned several issues back that skinny jeans and long flowy shirts have become popular. While an hourglass body shape can, for the most part, wear whatever you want, it’s important to look at your height when choosing pieces. Where clothes stop and start can alter how tall or short you look, or even how wide you appear, with optical illusions. Where your hemlines are determines if this will happen. If you wear a horizontally striped shirt that stops at your waist with shorts or capris on a short body or short legs, then you’ll make yourself look even shorter and possibly even wider. If every color change happens in the shirt stripes, then where the hemline in your shorts stops is where the eye stops, compacting your height visually. If you’re a tall person, you may be able to get away with an outfit patterned like this. If you’re short, you may want to opt for that same shirt with a nice long, seamed pair of dark wash jeans and short heeled pumps. This will make your legs look a mile long and you look taller! This tip works for all body shapes, by the way, in terms of how you can make yourself look taller or shorter with the length of the clothing pieces you’ve selected. As we’ve now covered the Hourglass, Rectangle, Inverted Triangle and Pear shaped bodies, I wanted to take a moment and talk about the real purpose of how we dress. We’re doing a study of the history of the Bible in my small group right now and coincidentally, or not so coincidentally, recently discussed what it means to “Live In the World, Not Of the World.” One of the main points of discussion was that if your behavior, dress, or the way you express yourself and your opinions keeps you from developing a relationship with someone who maybe just needs to be loved on and experience the love of Christ, then you might be missing out on the fullness of God’s plan for you. Along those same lines, if the way that you dress, behave, speak to one another and conduct yourself is noticeably different from the world and is attractive, it will make non-believers wonder what’s different about you. No matter what body shape you have, whether you’re large, small, tall, short, frumpy or fashionista, it’s important to honor God and yourself in how you dress. Fashion is meant to be fun, not restrictive or divisive, so have fun with it! Express your style, your mood, your passions, but make sure that whatever you wear is attracting the attention that you deserve as a loved, respected and sacrificed-for daughter of God. Happy shopping ladies!
24
It’s always nice to keep it classic on occasion. We’ve started this outfit off with a basic, sleek, black pencil skirt. Find one that’s higher rise on the waist and you’ll accentuate the curves of your natural hourglass figure. Pair the skirt with a soft flowy blouse. This blouse tucked in and belted with a contrasting color belt will draw attention to your smallest part - your waist! Match your shoes to your belt and pop your outfit with a bright purse or clutch. You’re sure to look put together in this ensemble, ready for work, a night out on the town or date with the hubs.
Vince Camuto Pencil Skirt - $49 macys.com CAbi Swiss Dot Blouse- $89 cabionline.com White Belt- $9.14 amazon.com Gold Pumps - $26.59 aliexpress.com XOXO Teal Bag - $36 jcpenney.com
PERFECTLY MIXED, PERFECTLY MATCHED
25
think out of the lunchbox I can’t believe we’re talking about Back to School already! We’re still a few weeks out, but it’s a good idea to start planning now so you have a smooth transition back into the routine and classrooms for both Mom and kiddos. Lunches can be the most frustrating thing to plan it seems. You have to think of something that will keep unrefrigerated, or with just a cold pack in a lunch box, and be filling enough for your growing brood, all
PIZZA ROLLUPS
BBQ CHICKEN SANDWICH
while picking items that even the pickiest of
Make rollups with a spinach wrap, spread
If you have some leftover rotisserie or grilled
eaters will down so they don’t get junk food
with pizza sauce, slices of mozzarella
chicken from dinner the night before,
from the snack line instead. No pressure.
cheese or cream cheese spread under
shred and toss it with shredded carrots
We’ve selected some ideas here that
your sauce, pepperoni and any other
(sneaky) and BBQ sauce. Send them
are not only out of the “lunch” box so you
“toppings” your kids enjoy, then just roll it
with a homemade sandwich wrapped in
and your kids aren’t eating the same thing
up and cut! It’s like a fun kid’s version of a
parchment paper or sandwich baggie,
day in and day out, but are healthy too.
pinwheel. Pack it with fresh veggies and
chips, fruit and veggies and they’ll be full
Bon apetit!
dip, fruit cut into fun shapes and a small
the rest of the day!
sweet treat.
Image Source: eatingwell.com
Image Source: eatingwell.com
It’s
always
BEAN SALAD a
challenge
to
think
MINI CORNDOGS
APPLE CHIPS
of
I’ve made these a ton with my own kids
Anything prepackaged is going to be full
something new and exciting to pair with
and they love them! You simply cut up
of preservatives and nitrates, so if you have
an everyday sandwich. Send your kids
a hot dog into about ½” pieces, make a
the time or think to plan ahead, make
with a homemade bean salad and make
packet of cornbread muffin mix according
things and store them so they’re ready to
extra for you. Not only will they get a great
to instructions, place the mix in muffin
go for your busy hungry family. Apple chips
serving of protein and fiber, but it’ll mix up
tins and top with a hot dog piece before
are a great way to get some fruits in and
the monotony of chips and fruit. I like to
baking. Send your kids to school with their
something a little sweet for an afternoon
mix corn, black beans, garbanzo beans,
favorite corn dog dipping sauce in a mini
pick-me-up. Slice your favorite apple very
edamame, diced red onion, chopped
plastic container and they’re set!
thin using a mandolin. (Be careful!) Place
cilantro, salt, pepper, lime juice and olive oil to taste. Toss and chill in the refrigerator.
them on a parchment lined baking sheet Image Source: mybakerlady.com
and sprinkle lightly with cinnamon and
Just give it a good stir when you’re ready
sugar. Bake at 225° for an hour and you’ll
to eat!
have crispy apple chips! Store in an airtight
Image Source: supperforasteal.com
bag and they’re ready to pull a few out for lunch throughout the week. Image Source: dishmaps.com
26
THERE’S ALWAYS TIME TO
PLAY
PERFECTLY MIXED, PERFECTLY MATCHED
27
afalmmoosut s ily m E r r/a
Lad y E
e own
mma /mo t s ti
DESIGNS
a little bit of class. a little bit of sass. + you.
GRAND Reopening
VISIT: www.etsy.com/shop/ladyedesigns CHAT: ladyedesigns@live.com
FOLLOW.LIKE.LOVE: www.facebook.com/ladyedesigns
quality summer play WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK BY HEATHER SELF Summer is upon us and this leads to plenty of those comments we all love to hear from our children - “I’m bored” and “It’s hot.” Let’s make this summer a time to have fun and honor our children through quality time together. From several different summer reading programs, to splash pads, concerts and museums, there are many fun activities around town. Many are free or very low cost. You can have a great time with the kids without breaking the bank! Barnes and Nobles, Scholastic, Half Price Books and Pottery Barn Kids all offer summer reading programs/challenges. Remember that even if your child can’t read yet, you can read to him/her. This is a great way to use imagination and instil how important reading is for your child. To cool off with your kids, Houston and surrounding areas have many splash parks to offer, even the Houston Zoo has one inside to cool you off! Family Fun Houston has activities and events on their website arranged by area - North, South, East or West. This is a great resource for all sorts of activities and they even include a Kids Eat Free page for local restaurants. Big Kid Small City is also another great place to find fun things to do around town. Houston on the Cheap has a list of theaters that are showing free or cheap movies throughout the summer. Also, check out the theaters and parks for summer kid’s concerts and plays, Miller Outdoor Theater offers free events. Don’t forget about church activities such as VBS that are often free, as well. This gives parents a break for a few hours a day to do whatever they need to do and kids a chance to socialize. Remember that our children love to spend time with us. Simple things like picnics, coloring together, swimming together, having them put on a fashion show with you as the photographer - all of these make our children happy. If you have older children it could be a bike ride, yoga, hiking or throwing the football around. Our kids are only kids once. We have one chance to enjoy this time with them and honor our kids with our love.
THEATER
WATER PARKS
READING
Photo credit: milleroutdoortheatre.com
Photo credit: yourhoustonnews.com
Photo credit: suburbanturmoil.com
PERFECTLY MIXED, PERFECTLY MATCHED
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SPORTS INJURY PREVENTION: BETTER THAN INTERVENTION
with Dr. Derrick Raymer, D.C.
BY: JOHN LEWIS
More than 2.6 million1 children ages 0 – 19 are treated in the emergency room for sports and recreationrelated injuries each year. Overuse injuries, injuries resulting from repetitive micro-trauma to the tendons, bones, and joints, account for roughly half of all youth sports injuries, while the remaining half are those resulting from a single traumatic event, or acute injuries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports more than 50%2 of all sports injuries among children are preventable. In other words, our kids are getting hurt playing sports more and more frequently, and many of those injuries could be prevented.
D
r. Derrick Raymer, D.C. spent his childhood playing
a lot of tools in my toolbelt; a wide variety
sports in northwestern Kansas. Basketball, football, golf,
of treatment options for the wide variety of
and baseball filled his afternoons, weekends, and summers.
symptoms and conditions that come in to
Just like any other red-blooded American boy, he had
the office each day.”
his fair share of sports-related injuries. As a college athlete
With a wife, 2 year old daughter and one
at Sam Houston State University in Texas, he met his wife while pursuing a bachelors in
on the way, Dr. Raymer is passionate about
kinesiology and health. He then went on to complete a doctorate in chiropractic care
family. When asked about what motivates
from Palmer College of Chiropractic. “I knew that’s what I wanted to do,” he says, “to
him in his day to day practice he pauses
take care of athletes the way I was taken care of-- athletes who are going through the
for a moment, becoming introspective. “I
same daily injuries I did as a high school or college athlete.”
want to be able to provide for my family.
Dr. Raymer discovered his passion for working with kids while still at Palmer College.
To do the right thing - to treat people in
Since then, through his work at a sports clinic in downtown Houston, his practice in The
the manner that is best for them each and
Woodlands, Legends Sports Complex, Houston Premier Basketball, Serve Volleyball
every time regardless of profit. To be a man
Academy, and now Athletic Republic, this passion has only grown. “My passion is to
of Christ, a great husband to my wife, and
provide young athletes with proper treatment, to teach them proper exercise techniques
a great dad to my daughter.” Dr. Raymer
and lifting mechanics. Through assessments and athletic screens, to find areas of the body
carries this passion for God and family into
that are weak and may provide athletes with a greater chance for injury.” Once these
his practice each day. While the bulk of his
weakened areas are identified, Dr. Raymer works with athletes to strengthen and increase
clients are 7 to 18 years old, he has a heart
mobility and potentially lower their chances for injury. Youth sports have significantly
to take care of mom and dad, too.
changed over the last ten years. Parents and coaches are starting kids even younger with
Dr. Raymer treats patient of any age,
training, sports clubs, and the incessant athletic activity that comes with the package. Dr.
from newborn to adult. Some common
Raymer comments on this trend, “Athletes are getting injuries at younger and younger
symptoms he treats outside of sports injuries
ages- repetitive injuries. And I want to give them treatment and ways to prevent injuries
are: carpal tunnel, nerve pain, sciatica,
so when they are adults their bodies won’t feel worn and broken down from overuse.”
sever’s disease, plantar fasciitis, and the
Dr. Raymer combines soft tissue treatment, chiropractic care, and corrective exercise
traditional lower back, neck, and shoulder
to build strong, stable, balanced young athletes. The chiropractic adjustments help
pain. In addition to these, the goal at
joints move properly. Sometimes, however, when muscles are tight and not treated, it
Athletic Republic – The Woodlands is to
can consistently cause joints to be restricted, feeling stuck. By loosening up the muscles,
provide proper treatment, assessments, and
adjusting joints, and utilizing exercises to help stabilize treatment to the area, Dr. Raymer
sports performance training to all athletes,
is able to address the core problem and the results are maximized. In this process he also
and to give parents more confidence that
works with his patients to identify the behaviors and training methods being used that are
their kids will have less likelihood of injury. To
causing the problems, and then educates them on proper methods to prevent pain and
mom and dad, Dr. Raymer also has this to
injury moving forward. The end result is an athlete with a strong, stable core. “This gives
say, “Heck, while you’re in the office and
me confidence that our athletes will have less injuries. Fluke injuries are bound to occur,
your son or daughter is getting treated,
but if we can show that an athlete has a strong base, a strong foundation, and moves
we can find out what’s causing you pain
well, the injury risk should go down.” To utilize this approach Dr. Raymer has become
as well.” Come visit Dr. Raymer at Athletic
certified well beyond what’s normally required to practice as a chiropractor. Beyond
Republic – The Woodlands so you too can
his doctorate, Dr. Raymer is also certified in the Functional Movement Screen, Selective
“Move Better, Feel Better.” ◘
Functional Movement Assessment, Graston Technique, Active Release Technique, McKenzie Protocols for Herniated Discs, plus continuing education hours in developmental kinesiology courses. He has accumulated over 300 hours of continuing education, several times the recommended 16 C.E. per year. His extensive education, beyond what’s required, enables Dr. Raymer to provide optimal treatment to his patients. “It gives me
30
For more information contact Dr. Derrick Raymer, D.C. at (936) 647-6758.
NOWOPEN
8101 Kuykendahl Rd. Suite 100 The Woodlands, TX Located just behind the Alden Bridge Shopping center.
Athletic Republic is the culmination of 24 years of research and relentlessness. It’s an evidence-based sports training system that has delivered improvements in speed, power, agility and stamina to nearly 1 million athletes of all ages. Athletic Republic is a brand built out of a firm belief that there is a better way to train athletes, a better way to rehabilitate and a better way to maintain peak athletic performance. We are not a gym. We are performance sports training.
www.TheWoodlands.AthleticRepublic.com
For more info, contact Susan Romero at 936-443-7747 or by email to Susan@AthleticRepublicTheWoodlands.com.
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