My First Houston Update

Back in KC, I used to write the occasional KC Update where I would just talk about what we’ve been doing, what causes we have been supporting, and anything else I wanted to ramble about.

Welcome to my first Houston Update!

We have never been this busy before. EVER. From charity dinners, to burger bashes, and baby birthday parties we are getting well acquainted with our new city (can I still call it that?). I’m also adding the final touches to some of the rooms in our home of which I hope I get to share with you before the end of the year.

Here’s a sneak peek of the playroom! 

Jeff was graciously asked to be a part of the Local Houston Magazine Men’s Issue. They were highlighting our passion for food, Jeff’s new job, and my food blog! You can see our article here (page 56-57). We had fun at the photoshoot at one of our favorite restaurants here in Houston.

We had a great time supporting a crucial cause: childhood literacy and education. We attended The Wade Smith Foundation’s Bedtime Stories event which was complete with a runway show and auction! Through his foundation, he sends current and former NFL players to read to students throughout Dallas and the Houston area. Jeff got the opportunity to read some student last week.

With the Lady Texans, I have really gotten to know our community and it’s needs. We helped fill backpacks at the Houston Foodbank for kids that might not get a meal on the weekends. It was eye opening to see how many kids were dependent on the modest package of food we were sorting and distributing.

We also went to a local domestic violence shelter and enjoyed lunch with some of the survivors. They had an amazing spirit about them and it was nice to just chat and get to know some of the women and the hopes they have for their future.

Most recently, we attended a Texan’s and T-bones event hosted by Brian and Megan Cushing (The Brian Cushing Foundation). The players served the meal to some of our courageous soldiers and the silent auction proceeds go to provide resources for Houston area veterans and their families.

Finally, we are in the third trimester! Baby Allen will be here by the first week of the New Year and I’m honestly not ready. Not ready to pause our mother- daughter dates, not ready for spit up stained clothes, nor sleepless nights. I’m trying to enjoy these last few weeks of this pregnancy and give Joy all my love an attention.

I’m working on a shared nursery and looking for ways to involve Joy once her little brother gets here. I know she will eventually make a wonderful big sister; we might just have to overcome some hurdles of jealousy and rough love (she gives really tight hugs and hard kisses!)

If you haven’t been keeping up with my most recent recipes, SHAME ON YOU! Here’s a short list of what you missed.

Grilled Chicken Sandwiches with a delicious swiss and cream cheese spread.

Baked Pumpkin Oatmeal perfect for crisp fall mornings. 

Weeknight Chicken Pot Pie