six months in houston--help me make the most of it? (The Woodlands: renting, house)

[suz1023]

In addition to seeking out the farmers' markets in the area, I'd like to explore some other facets of your friendly city while here.

Volunteering at the zoo was the first thing I checked out, but there's a waiting list--darn it!

So I've got a few other things in mind, and would really appreciate some feedback as to where to find them or which to avoid if possible.

First, it seems a no brainer to look for somewhere to learn to speak Spanish, and I'd also like to learn to teach English as a second language too.
As an animal lover, I'm very open to working with them, especially horses and cats.
I'd also like to look into a commercial drivers' license for myself, maybe there is a particularly good school in the area?
My bike could use a workout---where are some bike paths which do not include road riding with motor vehicles?
Which community colleges are worth a look, in case I decide to take up underwater basket weaving or
scuba lessons?


Though I know I can't afford all of the fun stuff there is to learn and do here, I still want to check it all out!

thanks very much,
s.

[crono_clone]

Hmm darn, it's too bad you just missed our Theater District Open House last weekend. That's the best time to check out all our arts (theater, opera, ballet, and symphony) with free shows and major discounts on season tickets. Here's a link to them anyway if you're interested in checking out a few shows: Downtown Houston

You might also like volunteering with our various arts organizations and museums. Try the Houston Arts Alliance or the Museum District.

Our most popular bike trail is around Memorial Park. Buffalo Bayou Park also has a good trail but they're still undergoing construction in a lot of areas. There are a lot of rides in the area as well -- there's Critical Mass and I think Bike Barn holds weekly rides at their location. If you're interested in volunteering for an organization, check out BikeHouston.org

[PedroMartinez]

A popular destination in Houston:

[annals]

If you are interested in animal well-being, a great place to volunteer is the Wildlife Center of Texas:

Wildlife Center of Texas

My boss volunteers there several hours a week and loves it.

[txdemo]

Here's another wildlife rehab center: TWRC Wildlife Center | Caring for Urban Wildlife since 1979

[Cabot]

There are many animal shelters in the area that need volunteers. Google 'Animal Shelters Houston' and it will bring up the list. The Houston SPCA also rescues large animals so try them
Volunteer - Houston SPCA

[bu2]

bikes
Braes Bayou and Buffalo Bayou have long bike trails.
There are others as well, but those are probably the longest.

If you are in the north, The Woodlands has an extensive set of trails. If you are in the Southeast, there are some trails in Clear Lake City.

[ej35401]

6 months starting from now? You'll miss the rodeo. Too bad.

[suz1023]

great links, thanks.
I'm in the southwest corner near the nrg stadium---is it a safe area for bike riding and walking?
btw what is this neighborhood called?

[Keyan]

Originally Posted by suz1023

great links, thanks.
I'm in the southwest corner near the nrg stadium---is it a safe area for bike riding and walking?
btw what is this neighborhood called?

its okay, not the best area, but you can go north of that on kirby and it gets alot better.

and i feel ya on volunteering at the zoo, its actually a really fun place to work if you can get in. good luck