Should your formal Thanksgiving dinner include children on the list of invitees, nothing pleases parents more than a separate kids table, where young diners can make messes and enjoy a special meal while the adults get a few minutes of grown-up conversation. The key to a successful kids table is planning.

The holidays are over and your picture-perfect decorations, the ones that have been up for months, are ready to come down. Somehow, the stowing away of these cheery treasures often brings about feelings that are anything but jolly; the new year’s storage is just not as exciting as decking the halls when the weather turns wintery. However, it is important to keep those treasures merry and bright, so that next year can be just as joyous! Consider these post-holiday storage solutions to keep your seasonal décor intact while also making next year’s trimming of the tree efficient!

While the true spirit of the holidays is all about spending time with loved ones, the gift-giving aspect has been known to strike fear into even the most seasoned celebrator’s heart. So, what do you give the person who has it all? Here are a few ideas to put the merry back into the season.

Known at least in part for its picturesque location on Galveston Island, Moody Gardens and the Moody Gardens Hotel often come to mind as spring and summer destinations. Every year, approximately two million individuals, couples, and families travel from across Texas and states beyond to enjoy the 242 acres of beautiful scenery and educational attractions, many of which seem best suited to warm weather fun. But this tropical paradise also offers a host of special events and activities specifically designed with wintertime in mind.

Many fondly remember their first live performance of The Nutcracker ballet, and can likely recall what year it was, who they were with, and where they saw it. Something as wonderful as this can leave such an impactful, lasting impression. Luckily, there are performances throughout the Lone Star State this time of year; creating an everlasting memory with the treat of a timeless, classical ballet has never been easier.

When pumpkin-shaped decorations have been packed away, and Thanksgiving leftovers have been devoured, the hills, or rather City Park and downtown San Marcos, come alive with the Sights & Sounds of Christmas.

The holidays can be guilty of demanding your time in the kitchen. Through the hustle and bustle of holiday preparation, many fall guilty of forgetting their furry companions through the winter whirlwind of Christmas time. Instead of limiting them to the scraps that the younger relatives slip under the table, consider trying a recipe that caters to the four-legged family member curled up under your tree.

Gift wrapping season is upon us once again. Instead of dreading the often-daunting task, use it as an opportunity to make each gift a customized representation of your style and holiday spirit. Here are some tips to make sure your holiday wrapping is the show stopper at every holiday event you attend.