Meet a Houston Mom | Meet Catherine Landis of Oat What Fun | West University Moms

Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in Houston?

I am from Houston! I graduated from Episcopal High School, went to TCU, lived in San Antonio for a while, and am so excited to be back in my hometown!

Child(ren) and Age(s)? 

William (8) , Margaret (6) , Charles (2)

One thing people would be surprised to know about you…

I am adventurous and love to travel! I did Semester At Sea in college, and ever since I am always up for an adventure and exploring new places.

Favorite local activities to do in Houston? 

We love going to Levy Park, The Houston Arboretum, Nature Discovery Center in Bellaire, and exploring all the wonderful parks Houston has to offer!

Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world? Please share! 

I am the founder of Oat What Fun. I make play dough and play sand from organic oats. All of my products are all natural and safer for children and the environment. I was previously a preschool director, and I was inspired to create Oat What Fun after my family switched to natural living and I could not find any natural play products. You can learn more on my website www.oatwhatfun.com and follow me on Instagram @oatwhatfun

How has the Houston community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?

The Houston community is amazing. I have felt so much support from other small businesses from day 1 of launching my business. Houston has so many talented mom-owned businesses, and I had no idea I would be entering such a supportive, welcoming community. I would not be where I am today without the support of the Houston community!

What is the best advice for juggling mommyhood and running a business (or volunteering, working, etc)?

This is something that has taken me a long time to embrace, but ask for help. We cannot do it all. Whether it is help with business, home, or kids- ask for it! It makes a huge difference to not be juggling it all. This does not mean you need to hire a ton of help. Think about family and friends who might be willing to help and all they are waiting for is for you to ask. It is a gamechanger!!

What would you tell the old “You” before you had kids?

Do not forget to take care of yourself! You cannot take care of others or run a business if you do not take care of yourself.

Funniest shortcut/routine for helping you through parenthood?

When life gets crazy and everyone is in meltdown mode, crank up the music and have a dance party!

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