Celebrate the Holidays by creating Traditions with Hallmark! #HallmarkTradiciones

{This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Hallmark & in collaboration with Latina Bloggers Connect. . The opinions and text are all mine.}

Every holiday season, we try to add a new tradition. This year, thanks to Hallmark, we decided to let the kids choose their very own Christmas ornaments to hang on our fresh tree. The kids had not done this before, so it was a bit confusing at first. We went to our local Hallmark store, which is literally an adult candy store. I had to remember we were there to let the kids select items, and resist buying everything. They have such an amazing selection of Holiday items and, of course, the best Holiday cards. All the perfect gifts to help spread joy. 

The best part of spreading joy is planting that Holiday cheer in our own home. We love creating moments and traditions that the kids will remember.  No matter what is going on during the Holiday we love slowing down and remembering what the time of the season is all about. For us, that means family, more importantly, our children and their growing memories. We have such crazy schedules and lives that small moments like this, no matter how hectic are always fun. 

The kids were so excited and after several minutes of browsing, picking up and almost deciding on ornaments, they had made their final selections. Santiago picked the Grinch and he talks. He loved his choice, I did too. Very unique and a classic Dr. Seuss character. Camila picked a princess, not any princess but the new version of Rapunzel. It has been a favorite movie of the kids since it came out. I love that both picked an item that represent them and that they will remember they selected. 

Filling our home with Holiday cheer, lights and now new Christmas ornaments for our little tree, give bring us great joy and create new traditions. I know the kids will now look forward to adding a new ornament every year. I think that every year will be unique as the kids continue to express grow into their personalities. 

Last year we added "Lucy", our Elf on the Shelf which is available at Hallmark, to our Christmas traditions. And, this year when she reappeared from her year long hiatus the kids were ecstatic. They look forward to what crazy trouble Lucy will get into. It's the small traditions that bring them joy and that to us is happiness.   

What kind of traditions have you created for your family every year? 

Do you want to win your Holiday cards and gift card from  Hallmark to help you spread the Holiday cheer this year? ENTER BELOW. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Hallmark. The opinions and text are all mine.

::Momma of Dos Blogging Workshop::

-Blogging Workshop-

Please join me as I create new ventures in 2016. I will be giving my first ever Blogging 101 workshop. If you are looking to begin your blogging journey or maybe want to learn more about how to take your current blog to the next level, please join us. 

You can contact me for more information; mommaofdos@gmail.com or our workshop hostess, Alicia of Thinking Girls Boutique- http://www.thinkinggirlsboutique.com/

And; if you are ready to begin your new blogging journey now, please visit Thinking Girls Boutique to sign up- scroll to the bottom where you can reserve and pay for your spot-

http://www.thinkinggirlsboutique.com/events/2016/1/9/begin-your-blogging-journey

::Houston Latina Bloggers:: 12 days of Christmas Picture Challenge

-Houston Latina Bloggers-

Picture above taken by Alex Montoya of D'Mont Photography and our first Networking event this year at Thinking Girls Boutique.  

Who are we and what do we do?

Organizational Purpose: The purpose of Houston Latina Bloggers is to create a nationwide awareness of Houston-based Latina Writers and Bloggers. As well as establish an online presence within Social Media and PR groups. While disseminating relevant and pertinent information not only to the Latino/Hispanic community here in Houston but also to other local writers and Bloggers.

What does this mean?

We are composed of over 50 local bloggers who work hard and understand the content that reaches our community. We have become experts in our subject matter. We look to uplift Latina's not only within our group looking to build a writing business, but also all women in our community. Women seeking support as they begin a new venture or platforms where they can share and relate to other Houston women. 

How can you help us grow? 

Follow us. Join us at our upcoming events in 2016. Read and share our blogs. Use our hashtags and tag us in your posts. #HoustonLatinaBloggers #HLBNetwork #HLBlove

https://www.facebook.com/HTXLatinaBlog/

https://twitter.com/houtxblogueras

https://instagram.com/houstonlatinabloggers

Who are we?

Our group is administered by three local Latina's. Jihane of OnixJ (Co-Founder), Ariana of 3TwentySix (Social Media Director) and myself (Connie Gomez, Co-Founder). 

As for the rest of the group, they are amazingly talented Latina's who share their lives, their journey's, their stories and so much more. You can find their blogs featured on our social media sites. Soon, we will have a complete directory and a website. (Coming Spring 2016)

How can we help you?

Well, are you looking to promote an event or product? Would you like our bloggers to know more about your company or brand? Would you like to know more about our services and what we offer? Contact us at houstonlatinabloggers@gmail.com 

Are you looking to share your upcoming event with local Houston families and women? Tag us in your posts and use the hashtag #HLBShare, we will then share your event on our sites. 

Are you looking for daily news, motivation, inspiration or just a good laugh? Follow our social media sites where we post a varied amount of content. 

What are we up to currently? 

We are actually starting the 12 days of Christmas picture challenge; follow us on Instagram and show us your best Holiday pictures. We will pick the best of each day's pictures and feature them on HLB. Join us! It will be fun. 

Please feel free to share our social media sites. 

::Gift Guide:: Sibling Edition

This gift guide was inspired by all the fabulous guides my fellow Houston Latina Bloggers have put out this week. Have you seen them? Check out our FB, Instagram and Twitter account for all the latest post! 

Our big ticket items for the kids, this year, were the following:

A Frozen karaoke system and a Skylander Interactive set.

"Santa" will be bringing the kids these gifts on Christmas day per our traditions. But, when it came to getting both the kids something that they could open on Christmas eve we love the following gifts. My Husband and I both agree that it should be something they can share and will be inexpensive. Since the expensive items will follow. We acquired the gifts either online or in person from Target, Walmart, and Toy's R Us.   

Our online items were purchased weeks ago and there was free shipping. We received the items within a couple of days. The deals were good. And, guess what we actually finished shopping the first weekend we went out to shop. Which is perfect! This never happens. Last year we almost got into those massive store brawls over this Frozen doll. It was ridiculous and not something we wanted to repeat this year.  By the time I ordered it online we couldn't get it delivered until Christmas day. 

We vowed for our own sanity and time that this would not happen this year. We planned ahead, found all their first choice toys and tah-dah, operation Team Gomez Christmas 2015, success. Ya'll I can't be on the news for some doll. Cause, I will throw a punch and I will be escorted out. Just sayin'! Haha.  

The list. The list of good gifts for siblings, items you can purchase for your kids or nieces and nephews or neighbors!

::Board games::

Our kids are finally at that age {4 almost 5 and 6 years old} where they can understand the concepts and play a good board game. Currently, we have UNO, Guess Who {with animal and veggie board options} and Boom Boom Balloon. UNO is so much fun for everyone. Guess Who is a riot, my kids are super competitive and Santiago has learned the art of cheating at games, not good! But, it's so funny. Boom Boom Balloon, if you have not played is the most fun and intense game ever.We give that a Team Gomez high five and recommend it. 

::Movies:: 

Our kids have a ton of movies which we watch 10{thousand} times a piece. But, now with Netflix, Red Box and YouTube we have bought fewer movies. We wait for birthdays and, of course, Christmas. We chose two new favorites, one which we watched at the movies and spilled our drink over, Jurassic World. Which if you like intense, scary movies with action and people being swallowed by large whale like things then yeah, this movie is for you. We loved the Jurassic Park series so this was a must. Our second choice was Inside Out, Camila loves this movie and watches this video incessantly. 

::Puzzles::

Puzzles are great, watching them put them together is pretty cool too. Some come with cute carrying totes and storage cases. Last year we got them each a puzzle with lunch boxes as cases, which was pretty useful. They have some with little purses or nice wooden boxes. These are good items, you can get them one for each child or one big puzzle for groups of 3 or more kids. I like getting them similar items so there isn't a fight over why someone received something different than the other. If you have 2 or more kids you might know what I am talking about! 

:: Books:: 

Books are great too. Either gift cards to Barnes and Noble, which we have done in the past for other people's kids. And, been thanked by the parents for not bringing them the usual. Some of our favorites are short, Bilingual, hardcover books like those of Lil'Libros! They have so many great cultural concepts and vibrant pictures that keep the kids attentive.  But, this can work similar to the puzzles, you can buy a book for each child or maybe a longer storybook for both to sit and read together.

:: Matching PJ's::

We have done matching PJ's in the past for my kids and nephew, best gift ever. It's useful and such a quick and easy gift to purchase. This year we are considering PJ's even for us. Who doesn't love a good set of comfy PJ's to lounge around the house in? I know I do.

::Arts and Crafts::

My kids have received this type of gift in the past, things like play-doh and different drawing or painting sets are good.  I don't love that, depending on what it is, they are not easy to clean up, but it does keep the kids busy. Plus with my kids in daycare they do a lot of this type of activity already so seeing drawing pads and paints at home is always a thrill for them. A kind of extension of what they have going on at school. It's a great way to practice their motor skills and while clean-up time isn't much fun for this Momma, the somewhat quiet time is great. Camila loves to write and draw and Santiago is learning to write more and more so they love pens, paper, and notepads. 

Hope this guide was helpful! Let is know your thoughts and feedback or tag us on Christmas day to see all the gifts you did purchase. I mean...that "Santa brought."

Holiday Gift Card Deals Round-up #ad

All offers below are available from now until Dec. 31 unless otherwise noted.

We realize that some people are hard to shop for, but there is one item that never gets old. Food gift cards are always good, they are easy to use and I am sure we all love food enough to use them! Another great idea is gift cards to food and entertainment places where kids {and parents} can have fun too. Finally, what Momma doesn't like wine and or a good spa day. Here are some great Holiday gift cards for everyone to enjoy, great for group, couple or family gifts. {hint,hint} 

::P.F. Chang’s::
P.F. Chang’s is offering a free $20 gift card with every $100 in gift cards purchased in-store or online at pfchangs.com/giftcards. Cards can be redeemed for food or drinks beginning Jan. 1at participating restaurants. Offer available in all P.F. Chang’s markets.

::Pollo Tropical::

Pollo Tropical guests will receive a $5-off coupon for every $25 gift card they purchase. The $5-off coupons will be valid for use in January at all company-owned Pollo Tropical locations. Guests can also plan holiday gatherings and parties with ease with Pollo Tropical catering for any size group with as little as one day’s notice. Guests can order by calling 866-769-7696 or by going online toorder.pollotropical.com.

::Taco Cabana::

Taco Cabana guests will receive a $5-off coupon for every $25 gift card they purchase. The $5-off coupons will be valid for use in January at participating Taco Cabana locations. Offer available in all Taco Cabana markets.

 

::Bruegger’s Bagels::

Bruegger’s Bagels is offering deals on gift card purchases and catering orders this holiday season that your audience will want to take advantage of.

Gift cards: Guests will receive a $5 bakery bucks certificate for every $25 gift card they purchase. The $5 certificates will be valid for use from January 1, 2016 – March 30, 2016, in-bakery only at all Bruegger’s Bagels restaurants.

Catering: Guests can also plan holiday gatherings and parties with ease with Bruegger’s bagels’ catering for any size group with as little as one day’s notice. Guests can order by calling 855-776-0660 or by going online to catering.brueggers.com.  And from now until the end of the year, a $10 rebate will be applied to all catering orders over $75.

::Main Event::

Main Event Entertainment is offering everyone who buys $25 in gift cards through Dec. 31 a free $10 bonus FUNcard. Gift cards can be purchased at any of Main Event’s 22 locations or online atmainevent.com/FUNcards. Offer available in all Main Event markets.

::Salata::
Now through Dec. 30, Salata, is offering guests who purchase a $25 gift card a coupon for a free small salad (or wrap) on their next visit in (coupons valid through Dec. 31, 2015). Offer available inDFW, Austin, Houston, San Antonio, L.A. and Chicago.

::Max’s Wine Dive::

For every $50 spent, guests will earn a $10 bonus card that can be redeemed January-February only. This will be available both as a physical gift card and through our new online gift card partner, QuickGifts. Offer available in Dallas, Houston, and Denver. Max’s Wine Dive, locations and more information available at http://www.maxswinedive.com/

::Etre Bell::

Now through Jan. 31, Etre Belle Beauty and Medical Spa is giving back to guests for the gifts they give to others. Purchasers of a $100 or more in gift certificates will receive a choice of a manicure, pedicure, massage or facial as a gift for themselves. Gift certificates can be purchased at Etre Belle Beauty and Medical Spa, located in NorthPark Center between Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus. Contact the Spa, at (214) 369-1600, for more information or to schedule an appointment. (Dallas only).

::Taking your kids to the Theatre:: #ad #ChistmasCarolHOU

          ::Momma Disclosure:: This is a compensated post. All statements are my true and honest opinion.  

I never know what to expect and as my husband says; I am so uptight. Sorry, but I worry. About my kids doing bad things in public places. About what others will say about my kids doing bad things in public places, I worry. So, when we were invited to see the Christmas Carol at the beautiful Alley Theatre, I was nervous. A little more than when I go to the movie theater. The movies I feel we have mastered.

Thankfully. we got the perfect seats, close to the aisle for easy exit access. Then we watched the show and I observed, like always. My kids did not stay still cause well, they are kids, I tend to forget that and expect so much of them. They threw some fits and ate cookies during the intermission. My Husband, the more laid back and cool parent, thank goodness was ever so patient with ME. My kids, especially my son, loved the show. He was a little skeptical at first but once it began he was in awe. Live theater is something I personally love. My Husband and I have seen several live shows and love it. We knew this was something we wanted our kids to experience as well.

The question was when? The suggested age for the show is 6, understandably. There were younger kids there and many stepped out during the show, thankfully we didn't have to. And, my Husband reminded me there were kids with worse behavior than mine which made me a feel a little more at ease. If you have little ones and want to attend a live show here are my 5 tips for doing so.

:: Talk to your kids before about rules and what they are to expect::

I didn't tell the kids too far ahead about our little adventure because then it would be endless, "when are we going" questions. So, the morning of, we got ready and in the car. On our way we had breakfast so we took that time to tell them, where we were going, what they could expect and how they should behave. I really feel that the older they get the more they understand. Which is very comforting for this worrying Momma. We told them about behaving and being "big kids" which they seemed to understand. The day did not go without tantrums and tears, but they really did behave and tried their best.  

:: Eat before you go::

The theater isn't really like the movies, you can't go in the seating area with food. I knew this from our previous times there so we had a good breakfast before we arrived. And, during the intermission my Husband got the kids drinks and cookies which they enjoyed. Eating a meal before you go to the theater is a good idea and having a snack at intermission for the kids I think was a great idea. Also, explaining to them that snacks are not allowed inside are good too. 

:: Go to the bathroom before the show::

My daughter has a potty problem. Everywhere she goes, we have to visit the bathroom. Knowing this, I make sure we use the bathroom before we go anywhere for sure. The theater was no exception. I had to explain that we needed to watch the entire first half of the show before we could again. So, we went to the bathroom before the show, twice, and then during the intermission. For someone who loves to explore and see every inch of a new bathroom, Camila did very well. I think by the second half they were so into the play that they forgot about the bathroom. 

:: Use the Intermission for snacks and stretching::

By the time the first half of the play was over my kids and Husband were ready for a short break. We got up, stretched our legs and my Husband got the kids snacks. Which put me in a slight panic, because I knew you couldn't take the food inside. But, the kids did well at eating and drinking  We went to the bathroom again during this time. It was a good break to refocus and technically start over. I reminded the kids of being good and assured them it would be over soon. More so for Camila she is still having trouble giving something her full attention. But, she did very well. Once inside the theater, we didn't have to get up or leave once. 

:: Let your kids be kids and relax::

As a 30-something Momma, this is something that often gets me.And, it might not be my age, it is just my personality. I become so nervous of what can happen that I tend to lose sight of what fun can be. My kids and Husband are teaching me to let go. I have learned to let go, let my kids be themselves and just relax. It's a great option for having fun! My kids enjoy themselves more and so do I. The theatre was no exception, once I am in relax mode things go a lot better for us. 

Have you and your children been to the theatre? How was your experience? 

Glade®’s Winter Collections D.I.Y. Wreath #ad #SienteGlade

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #SienteGlade #CollectiveBias

As the Holiday season kicks in, I always seek out moments to create something special for our home. Something that will help our upcoming guests feel welcome in our house. We are a large Mexican-American family and gathering during the holidays always brings joy to our lives. We are so busy that seeing everyone in one place is not always possible. No matter how hectic this holiday season may get, we want to enjoy time with our families and help bring joy to their season as well. As someone who grew up in a large Mexican family, coming together at family gatherings has always been a motive for true happiness.

In our home joy comes in the little things, putting up our Christmas tree, decorating our home and creating our own winter wonderland is always fun! In order to begin this long-awaited process I took some time and visited my favorite store, Target, which carries many of the new limited edition Glade® Winter Collection scents. I purchased the Be at Peace™ scent, which has a hint of balsam fir and juniper. The scent is so clean and crisp it truly reminds me of winter. The packaging inspired me to create a Holiday wreath that would reflect the scent and colors of winter.

To my family and I, joy means spending time together, enjoying one another and having a

house filled with fresh scents and food of course!

The holidays are always a great excuse to craft and decorate your house with lots of red, green and gold! All colors inspired by Glade® and their limited edition Winter Collection of fresh aromas.

In order to create my wreath, I purchased some great Christmas decorations/ornaments and a medium size green wreath. You will need some hot glue or if you have ornaments ties or ribbon would also work. Creating the wreath is very simple and takes no time at all. You can have it done in about 30 minutes depending on how much detail you want to add.

I first make a mock arrangement of my wreath and try to imagine what I want it to look like.

Once I have dreamed up my perfect Christmas wreath; I start affixing the ornaments, ribbon, and bows. I purchased a pre-made bow, which is always easier, and some ribbon to tie around the entire wreath. Once I have secured all the ornaments and details to my wreath with ribbon ties or hot glue; it is ready to go on my front door and welcome our guest when they arrive on Noche Buena.

You too can create for your family and be inspired using this Glade® coupon to purchase your favorite Winter scent. Follow Glade® on Facebook or Twitter for more on their Holiday Inspired scents: http://cbi.as/1c10a & https://twitter.com/Glade

Glade Latina Holiday Sweepstakes

Mozart’s The Magic Flute #ad #Giveaway

                          ::Momma Disclosure:: This is a compensated post. All statements are my true and honest opinion. 

If you love art and the movies, I think this is for you! 

An encore performance of the first ever Live in HD broadcast of Mozart’s The Magic Flute will be presented in select cinemas near you on: 

Saturday, December 12 at 12:55 p.m. & 

again on Wednesday, December 16 at 6:30 p.m.

http://www.metopera.org/Season/In-Cinemas/

The Magic Flute is the perfect opportunity for audiences of all ages to get together for the Holidays and experience the opera in their local community. The Magic Flute has enchanted opera lovers from around the world with the whimsical humor and breathtaking puppetry of Julie Taymor’s hit production, presented in a shortened English-language version. Under the baton of Maestro James Levine, a winning ensemble cast – including Nathan Gunn, Ying Huang, Matthew Polenzani, Erika Miklósa, and René Pape – brings fresh life to Mozart's timeless fairy tale.

To celebrate this groundbreaking broadcast, we we are giving-away a family  4 pack to the December 16th show!!! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

::10 Positive things to do BEFORE 2016::

The new year will be upon us soon, in 30 days to be exact. I love happy, positive posts that will help us grow. 2015 has been a great one. I will have a reflection post soon. But, for now I wanted to kick off our "new year resolution" making, early. Only because being prepared and envisioning what I want in 2016 is highly important to me. I have been doing this for a couple of years now and things have just slowly become better and gone in a more desired direction. Now, I have said this before, my challenges and my vision boards don't go without troubles or difficulties. They just help me get through the tough moments easier. 

Let's begin. How can you make 2016 a better and bigger year?

::Envision your 2016::

Think about what it is you want, envision your happy place. Never a prefect world but always happy with your choices and the path you are walking. What you want for your family, your career, your education, your friendships, your business endeavors and partnerships. Anything goes. Sometimes the bigger the dream the better making those dreams come true though might take small steps and setting a series of smaller goals. These goals can be monthly goals. Just know that the process takes times. Be patient.

::Write it down::

Now that you have it all set-up in your mind and you have envisioned what 2016 will look like, write it down! One of my biggest mistakes is thinking, and thinking and not making notes or writing it down. Write your vision out as bullet points if you want just quick notes, or into your planner as monthly or weekly goals so that it's already planned. Writing down what you want is very important. It creates a visual, it's another reason why I believe in vision boards. This year I even created a digital vision board on Pinterest. Anything to help me SEE everything that I want, helps.

::Positive thoughts::

Set your mind in the right direction and the rest will follow. Trust. One of my biggest challenges year to year is my weight. Some months out of the year, I can't. I won't. My mind can't focus on being strict and disciplined, it wants to just be. I think months like these are necessary, it helps prepare our minds for what we really want. Once your mind is set on something it's hard to not go through with it, at least for me. I can be very stubborn. Mindset is everything!


::Positive Words::

Words, my friend Jotina has an excellent book about our language and how we should change this. I myself have done several #30daychallenege's now. And, 2016 will not be an exception, already planning it, so be ready January 1. The 30 day challenge is mainly on my Instagram. And, trust me, it has truly changed me. I used to work in a negative environment with co-workers whose words were always unhappy and complaint, once I changed my language to myself, that situation turned itself around. Our minds and our language are key to progressing. I have lived it.

::Start your weight loss plan now::

I started boot-camp about a month ago in November, knowing myself and that I love to eat. That and that the holidays were coming up and that I suck at self-control. I got a good deal on Texas Fit Chicks through Groupon and went with it. This week I started on my second month and have signed up for 3 new months. Oh this will be hell. But, it's okay because I am already loving the changes in my body and the 7 pound weight-loss in November. I have pictures on Instagram. Not like transformation stuff, but motivational ones that keep me going and reminded. If you start now, you won't have to think about it come January 1, you will already have a plan and your habits set. Just sayin'. As they say, the early bird gets the worm...and the abs! Ha.

:: Take a Break::

We all know that those who hustle succeed, but every once in a while a break is  much needed. You don't want to burn yourself out and lose sight of what you are really after. Taking a break and reorganizing your thoughts and plan is needed. I try to do this often, sometimes it's easier said than done. I am a person who constantly needs to be in motion, only because my anxiety and depression will kick in if I don't. And, that's even harder to shake. But, I do believe in resting and making sure that I remain focused so I take breaks, when needed. A break for everyone is different. For me, even not doing laundry, staying off social media after 5 p.m. or skipping a blog are all good breaks. I mentally shut down and enjoy things like; napping, T.V. and annoying my Husband and kids to do things!

::Take up a Hobby::

Helps fuel creativity and new ideas. I love making things, writing and exercising. All, I feel, are good hobbies to have. I have started doing some photography and learning more about taking quality pictures. I love making wreaths and headbands. Of course writing is my obvious passion. Exercising I feel is a good hobby, keeps you busy and in shape. I am not as good at that but I try. Always doing the things I really like, because they keep me motivated and inspire me so much. Plus they make me happy and keep me in a good mood which is valuable to good family life.

:: Eat Well::

Hardest thing ever for this Mexican Momma who loves ALL foods. But, I do notice that when I eat well I feel better. About myself, about my energy and overall mood. Good healthy food is so important in your 30's and beyond, I am sure. I ate so much crap food for so long that now, I would rather eat clean healthy homemade food. It's good every once in a while to have a good cheat meal, but for the long haul I prefer healthy eats. I get a lot my food prep ideas from Pinterest . Your body and mind will love you!


::Sleep::

This doesn't apply to me. Ha. I should sleep more. I can't sometimes. I have a problem shutting down and refuse to take medicine. Even after a long day waking up before 6 a.m. and exercising every night, I still can't seem to shut down. Insomnia is a real issue I have had for years, since High School. But, now well into my 30's, I know how important it is and when I can, I do sleep well. It's vital to my health. I can function just fine even on a couple of hours of sleep, my body is kind of used to it.

::Go Out::

Being social and meeting up with friends or meeting new people are vital, you never know who you will meet and how they will impact your life. Friends are a good reminder of how awesome your life's journey has been. Going out with your Hubby or significant other, is just as important to relax and have fun. I have the most fun on date-nights now with my Husband because they are so long overdue at times. They help remind me of how life brought us together and we always sit and think about the kids which is an amazing reminder of how much God has blessed us over the years.  This all helps re-inspire you on so many levels. So have a taco, drink a margarita, enjoy life and the rest will follow.

::5 Things to Know when going Camping::

This is our final installment of this years camping trip.

As stated before, camping and all the details are fairly new to us. We have learned as we experience it all. Here are 5 things we think are good to know before you head out for your next camping adventure. The best website to explore is the Texas State Park {or your states, state park page}. We browsed through it a few times and still missed these items or failed to research more. But, if you have little ones it's best to do your investigating before heading to a camp site. 

On one of our days we went from our camp grounds at Garner State park to a near by park, Lost Maples which is about 45 minutes away. We have been to Garner a couple of times so we wanted to venture out to other nearby parks and explore. It was a great decision.

The following 5 items are good to know and will save you some time and stress: 

::Park Day Pass:: 

As stated above for this last camping trip we stayed at Garner State Park {it was a last minute plan and we were lucky enough to get a spot} and then we traveled 45 minutes out to Lost Maples. When we arrived at Lost Maples we discovered that we didn't have to pay for a new entry. You can use your pass from one park to another, if it's valid for the same day. Ours was, so we got into the park for free. Winning! 

::Texas State Park Pass::

Another great idea is to purchase a State Park pass, which will give you unlimited entrance to all state parks. Which is a great deal if you think you will be visiting a lot of parks in a year. We do this once a year, if we decide to increase this, then I know we will be purchasing the state park pass. Because, it saves you the hassle of paying every time you go and/or waiting in line too long. There are other benefits of being members as well such as discounts and special offers.

::Right equipment::

Being prepared is highly important. I suggest everyone carrying a light backpack for your daily hikes with water and snacks. Especially for your little ones. Mine have a ton of energy  and climbing makes them thirsty and hungry, the bigger they have gotten the more they need. This trip I underestimated them, but my Sister in Law who seemed to be our saving point for this trip had a ton of extra snacks. Bringing the right shoes is a good idea as well, a good pair of tennis shoes or good fitted worn in hiking boots will work too. So important. You do a lot of walking and climbing, taking care of your feet is important.

::Know your Camp-site options::

Primitive camping really is PRIMITIVE , if you are not used to this type of campsite or aware of what it truly is, look it up! At first glance I thought, oh we can do this. But, once we made it to Lost Maples and we got a taste of the hiking to get to a primitive site, we knew that a site with water and electricity or a shelter is best for us. At least for now. The trails can be a little hard  but you must keep going, cause it's the only way to make it to a campsite. These types of trails and campsites are for EXPERIENCED campers. Garner has great sites, we usually get a shelter with water and electricity or a regular campsite with water and close to the bathrooms, my kids love the potty these days! Just know the sites and what you are prepared to experience.

::Cancellations::

We were told at 3 different parks that they were "full" but to call back the day of our travel for cancellations. Before we got on the road the day of our travel, we called in to Garner and there were cancellations for campsites. They do happen, even though the park might be "full". Don't give up on your favorite park or campsite. We booked a random spot and lost $10.00, but got a preferred spot the day of for $20.00. It worked out for us and we were literally happy campers.