Saturday, August 30, 2014

::Cantinflas, La Pelicula:: #Cantinflas


::Momma of Dos:: { This is not a compensated post. I received a free ticket to the press screening of Cantinflas and an invitation to interview Oscar Jaenada in collaboration with Latina Bloggers Connect. The opinions expressed are my own. }



Cuando era niña me acuerdo que lo que nos mantenía apegados a mi Abuelita era su amor por el cine Mexicano. Ella se sabe todas las películas del cine Mexicano y Americano de los años 30 y 40. Su conocimiento del cine Mexicano es algo que siempre ha compartido con nosotros. Por eso cuando me invitaron a ver la primicia de la película de Cantinflas, no espere y me apunte!

Al igual que muchas familias mexicanas,  Cantinflas era y es un nombre reconocido y muy querido en nuestra casa. Su historia como comediante y actor en México al igual que sus películas son inigualables. La pelicula  nos da más detalles sobre la vida privada de la estrella querida de México. Tambien nos muestra cómo fue el  inicio de Mario Moreno al cine México y el talento que se encontraba en el estilo de entretenimiento de "las carpas" en los años 30 en la ciudad de México.
 
No cabe duda que el personaje de Cantinflas fue unico y alguien especial para Mario Moreno quien nacio muy humilde y crecio el Tepito.

Su trayectoria fue admirable, claro que en su vida personal tuvo tropiezos pero a pesar de todo era humano. Su sencillez y manera tan inconfundible de hacer reír y entretener con sus "Cantinfladas" es lo que más se recuerda ahora. El actor Oscar Jaenada ha capturado la esencia del fallecido actor y su personaje tan querido en la película nueva, Cantinflas the Movie. Su parecido físico a Mario Moreno es algo que hace que Cantinflas vuelva a la vida.

Lo que me encanto también fue que la película tiene muchos actores populares y grandes del cine Mexicano como Rafa Amaya, Barbara Mori, Otto Sirgo, Joaquín Cosio y muchos más. Al igual que otros comediantes de México como Adal Ramones. Es un orgullo como mexicana que estos personajes sean introducidos al cine Americano. Porque al igual que en la vida real de Cantinflas; yo pienso que Hollywood subestima a los actores increíblemente talentosos que se desarrollan en la Cinematografía de México.

El actor Oscar Jaenda interpreto de maravilla a Mario Moreno. Y yo creo que con esta película se ha brindado un lindo homenaje al el gran actor, improvisaste y comediante que era Mario Moreno “Cantinflas”. La película muestra el lado humano del actor quien se sucumbió a las tentaciones del mundo de los artistas y quien sufrió en sus relaciones personales y matrimonió. Fue antes que nada humanosiempre puede haber tenido éxitos también hubo fracasos en su vida.

La película demuestra que hubo una falta de credibilidad y apoyo en Hollywood, quizás todavía la hay para artistas Mexicanos. Su poca fe en él como un actor "Mexicano" y querer menospreciarlo y darle papeles insignificantes cuando él muy bien podría tomar el papel principal en cualquier película. Y fue así en la película de Around the World in 80 Days, por la cual Cantinflas gano un Golden Globe.

Aparte de poder ver la película tuve la oportunidad de entrevistar a el Actor Oscar Jaenada aquí en Houston en la sala de conferencias del hermoso Hotel Granduca. Aqui estan algunas de las preguntas que le hice sobre la película y los obstáculos que tuvo para completar este proyecto de ser Cantinflas:









Yo: Cual fue el reto más grande que tuviste al aprender a ser "Cantinflas"?

Oscar Jaenada: Bueno lo más difícil para mí no fue mucho Cantinflas si no Mario Moreno. Ser Cantinflas fue ver películas, contrate a una instructora de baile, aprendí a imitar/colocar su voz.... era trabajo, disciplina....para mí el reto fue encontrar a Mario Moreno, porque sobre Mario Moreno "la persona" había muy poco. Fue buscar entrevistas y documentos y hablar con personas quien podían darme información sobre el... eso fue mi reto.


Lily: Que te dejo Mario Moreno y Cantinflas en lo personal?

Oscar Jaenada: En varias entrevistas que encontré de Mario Moreno le preguntaban quién es Cantinflas?... y él decía….."México". Yo creo que eso es lo que me dejo esta experiencia yo me llevo a México! Yo vaya me siento Mexicano por haber podido interpretar a Cantinflas.


Yo: Con quien te identificas más con Mario Moreno o con Cantinflas?

Oscar Jaenada: Solo una vez e tendió que interpretar a un actor antes de ahora, y es una cosa maravillosa porque estás hablando de tu misa profesión, de tu mismo estilo de vida, de tu misma dirección! En el caso de Mario Moreno me pasa lo mismo, conocer al artista, tenía mucha atracción aprender sobre el actor y sobre su personaje que mantuvo durante tanto tiempo… y fue impresionante su calidad que tenía como actor!


Lily: En algún momento tuviste miedo de no poder personificar a Cantinflas a nivel de quién era el?

Osacar Jaenada: La seguridad absoluta no la tienes pero la confianza en sí mismo sí. Tenía experiencia y confianza pero fue un poco más difícil porque fueron dos personajes fue un reto, nunca dude que lo podía hacer y que iba a poner todo de mi parte, y cuando uno pone todo de su parte raramente te puede salir mal.




Friday, August 29, 2014

::San Antonio:: Festival People en Espanol #FestivalPeople

::Momma Disclosure:: {This is not a compensated post. I was invited to a People en Espanol Luncheon and will receive a gift. All statements expressed below are my own personal opinion.}


::Logo:: Property of People en Espanol


What will you be doing this Labor Day weekend?

If you are in San Antonio or plan on making your way there; you should really consider attending the Festival People en Espanol! There will be great line-up of Latin artists, family activities and inspiration!! And, guess what it's FREE!!!!

With also a great concert Saturday night by Becky G. & Zendaya for tickets go to Ticketmaster: http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0C004CCCDEA5A3DB

::What::
Festival People en Espanol

::When::
Saturday August 30th
&
Sunday August 31st

::Where::
 Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Miercoles de Foodie! #elpolloloco

::Momma Disclosure:: { This is not a compensated post. I received an invitation for a blogger tasting event and for the grand opening. All opinions and statements are my own personal opinion.}

Last week El Pollo Loco had a special tasting event for bloggers, I wasn't able to make it but I will NOT miss their Grand Opening in Sugarland this October [4528 Hwy 6 South (coming Soon) , Sugar Land, TX 77478]! I am so excited and ready to taste all of the awesome dishes:






My fellow Momma friend and Houston Latina Blogger, Karen of We are the Carrasco's did go....


I cannot wait to try their tasty homemade Mexican food! Mole, salsas, quesadillas...OH MY! Their menu just looks so amazing, I can't wait to taste the crazy and uhm #houstonwehaveapollo

Everything just looks so fresh and tasty!! Their guacamole, roasted corn as a side and those enchiladas. These will be on my to taste list for sure when the new location opens in Sugarland this October!

El Pollo Loco and beyond! 
And, don't' worry you don't live near Sugarland El Pollo Loco plans on opening the following locations to serve more of the Houston area! Yum!!

• Copperfield – Highway 6 & West Rd.
• Katy – S. Mason Rd. & Provincial Blvd.
• Humble – FM 1960 & Whitaker Rd.
• Spring – Kuykendahl & Springbrook Garden Lane

Not only will you be able to enjoy the deliciousness in their great new dine-in area but you can also order in their drive-thru to go, for quick and convenient dinners and you can enjoy in the comfort of your own home!

El Pollo Loco is also hiring!! 

"El Pollo Loco is actively recruiting for new management and crew level positions to support the Houston-area restaurant locations. The company will be hiring hundreds of full- and part-time crew members over the next several months and each restaurant will employ approximately 40 people. El Pollo Loco offers a range of benefits to eligible crew members. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply at ElPolloLoco.com/Houston."

::About El Pollo Loco::
El Pollo Loco (Nasdaq: LOCO) is the nation’s leading fire-grilled chicken restaurant chain renowned for its masterfully citrus-marinated and fire-grilled chicken and handcrafted entrees using fresh ingredients inspired by authentic Mexican recipes. With more than 400 company-owned and franchised restaurants in Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas and Utah, El Pollo Loco will expand its presence in key markets targeting growth of eight to 10 percent per year through a combination of company and existing and new franchisee development. Some say the lengths we go to create fresh, delicious food are crazy.

We say it’s Crazy You Can Taste. 

Visit us on our website at ElPolloLoco.com. 

Like them on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/ElPolloLoco
Follow them on Twitter: @ElPolloLoco
Subscribe: http://www.youtube.com/user/OfficialElPolloLoco

HOPE YOU JOIN US!!! I will be there!!! 

Monday, August 25, 2014

Case of the Mondays ::Back to School Edition::

Today was the first day of school for many! 


While my children are not in public school, which for this Momma is santiy on this very unexpectly emotional Monday morning, they still had exciting changes today. My little man started Pre-School in daycare, he is officially in the "big kids class". My little Mama started in the 3/4 year olds class she was in the 2/3 year old class until now. 

I didn't think I would be emotional but here is the thing, for the last year and half Camila and Santiago have been in the same group of toddlers and their days were pretty much on the same schedule. With Santi moving to the Pre-K class he will no longer have lunch or recess with my baby! They will both have to depend on their own strengths and courage to go through the day without one another. Santi is a very big brother who loves and protects his Sister when he isn't trying to get her out of his face. 

I think this will serve as an experience of growth and appreciation for one another. I hope. My Hubby and I have given them both very firm and supportive talks about starting this new stage of their lives and I hope that they will not only make brave decisions but also stand up for themselves and be strong in their beliefs. A bit much for a 3 and almost 5 year old? Maybe but my Hubby and I are both the eldest in our families and we have learned from struggles and mishaps and know the direction in which we wish to shape our children's independence as well as their courage and bravery. 

This world, no matter what age can be cruel and while we are teaching them to see the good in everyone and everything we also don't want them to grow up close-minded or naive to the harms of the outside world. I know that may sound a bit intense but until now our children have developed very unique personalities and they are never afraid to be themselves. I want that to continue. 

Everyday a new lesson. Everyday growth.

Happy New School Year!!




What do you want your children to learn this school year?

Friday, August 22, 2014

:: Movie Fix:: #MommaApproved

::TMNT::
Did you grow up in the 90's? I kinda did, okay, I totally did! This past weekend I had a total flashback to about 8th grade when this came out:




We took our kids to watch the new movie this past weekend, really more so my son because my daughter is not a good movie-goer; she uses the bathroom about 4 times and talks the entire time. In the end I think my Husband and I enjoyed it more than they did! It was funny and such a great way to introduce a “classic” to a new generation! Cowabunga baby!!! 

We will definitely be buying the DVD, favorite scene anything Mikey was involved in he is HILARIOUS! Especially the elevator scene.... M.C. Mikey! Very family friendly. 

Have you seen it? What did you think? 

::When the Game Stands Tall:: This movie comes out today!!! I was invited to see it but wasn't able to make it! Hope to catch it soon, looks really good and so inspiring! I would think great beginning of the school year story for any football family out there.  "Inspired by a true story, When the Game Stands Tall tell the journey of legendary football coach Bob Ladouceur (Jim Caviezel), who took a high school football team from obscurity to a 151-game winning streak that shattered all records for any American sport."



::Cantinflas::  Comes out next Friday August 29th. I was invited to a pre-screening last week for this movie in association with Latina Bloggers Connect.

As a child I grew up watching Cantinflas, so I was very excited to watch this movie.  I thought it was great! Oscar Jaenada does a wonderful job of portraying such an amazingly talented and beloved Mexican actor/comedian. I think the movie captured the essence of who Mario Moreno was. I definitely LOVE the exposure this movie will give all of the upcoming Mexican actors. {FULL MOVIE REVIEW AND INTERVIEW WITH ACTOR OSCAR JAENADA NEXT FRIDAY!}



::Movies that we are looking forward ::

September:

::THE BOX TROLLS::  !!!

My son caught the commercial of this during another movie and he has been obsessed ever since! We can’t wait. Best part is it comes out during his Birthday month so he is so looking forward to turning 5! September 26th is it's release date. 



October:

::The Book of Life::

This movie caught my eye on Facebook... I think it will be a great movie to help further explain "El Dia de Los Muertos" to my children. We visit the Dia de Los Muertos Altars every year here in Houston so this will be perfect for our yearly lesson! 

This movie is going to be filled with amazing star voices such as; Channing Tatum, Zoe Saldana, Diego Luna and Christina Applegate. It is scheduled to be released on October 17, 2014.


November:

::The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1::
Set to release November 21st, who isn't ready for another Katniss butt kicking adventure!? I know I am!



What about you, what are you watching in the theaters this weekend!!??

Thursday, August 21, 2014

Is your lunch Lola approved? #lolatalks #ad

::Momma Disclosure:: {This is not a compensated post. I was gifted an Oscar Mayer cutting board, a gift card and coupons to purchase the Oscar Mayer Deli meats. All statements below and opinions are my own and are true and honest.}









The first day of school has already come for many but for most next week is their first day! My children are in daycare so we go to school year-round, some days coming up with a good and healthy lunch becomes a challenge without being so repetitive. Que le daras a tus ninos para comer despues de la escuela, or pack for their lunch on the first day of school?

Whatever it is, I would say it better be Lola approved! Who is Lola you may ask? Surely you have seen her on the new and very clever  Oscar Mayer commercials as  la abuela que todo lo dice! Her transparent way of being is enlightening and truthful! Nothing wrong with a little truth. She is becoming a popular guest in our home, I love her commercials and let me tell you she reminds me very much of my very openly spoken Mexican Abuelita!

These days between late night meetings, afternoon soccer practice and oh yes more recently plumbing problems in my house we are constantly seeking a quick and easy lunch or dinner for my family! The deli style meats from Oscar Mayer are my favorite to make tasty homemade sandwiches for a quick and easy lunch for my kids to take to school or to enjoy after a long day of learning and activities.

These sandwiches would also make for a great pot-luck dish to take to work or for your next Book Club get together! The freshness of the deli style cut meats and their delicious taste gets me an A+ in the kitchen every time!  Did I mention how affordable they are and how that to us is Hubby Approved? For a family of 4 who is always on a budget my Husband loves the deal with freshness and tasty deli meats from Oscar Mayer!

On this day since we were having problems with our kitchen plumbing we needed a easy, light cooking alternative. I took the awesome Oscar Mayer recipes for these dos sandwiches and gave them my own Mexican Momma twist here is what we prepared and what you will need to recreate in your home:



::Ingredients::


Sandwich for the kids:

-Wheat Buns

-A couple of lettuce pieces cut into thin slices

-About 3 to 4 slices of the Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

-Kraft Tuscan House Italian dressing



Prepare:

-Cut wheat buns in half, place in toaster or oven until toasted

-I sliced the lettuce very thin and placed it in a bowl and mixed in about a spoonful of the Italian dressing, I mixed the two

-Once my bread was toasted I added the lettuce with the dressing on bottom half of bun, then I added slice of Kraft Singles cheese {not shown above}, then I added the turkey deli meat on top. And done!



Sandwich of the grown-ups:

-Wheat Sesame seed buns

-Slices of Avocado

-Thin slices of cucumber

-A can of chipotle pepper in adobo sauce

-Thin slices of Jalapenos {Only a few depending on how spicy you want your sandwich}

-About 6 slices of the Fresh Smoked Ham



Prepare:

-Cut wheat buns in half, place in toaster or oven until toasted

-Once bread was toasted I added a slice of Kraft Singles cheese and about 3 slices of the Smoked Ham.

-Then I added my thin slices of cucumbers about 3 medium size slices very thin, my thin sliced jalapenos about 2 or 3, some slices of avocado about 3 or 4, then on top I added a little of the chipotle sauce and peppers, and to top it off I added some more ham!

  


While deep in afterschool conversation my kids enjoyed their delicious sandwiches! My Son suggested we add a pickle to his dinner, I paired their plate with carrots and then a pickle and for the adults some spicy chips!  









Visit mioscarmayer.com for more information on various product offerings.  You can also follow Lola on Facebook at Facebook.com/LolaTalks and Oscar Mayer on Twitter at @OscarMayer.

About Kraft Foods Group

Kraft Foods Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: KRFT) is one of North America’s largest consumer packaged food and beverage companies, with annual revenues of more than $18 billion.  With the spirit of a startup and the soul of a powerhouse, Kraft has an unrivaled portfolio of products in the beverages, cheese, refrigerated meals and grocery categories.  The company’s iconic brands include Kraft, Capri Sun, Jell-O, Kool-Aid, Lunchables, Maxwell House, Oscar Mayer, Philadelphia, Planters and Velveeta. Kraft’s 22,500 employees in the U.S. and Canada have a passion for making the foods and beverages people love.  Kraft is a member of the Standard & Poor’s 500 and the NASDAQ-100 indices.  For more information, visit www.kraftfoodsgroup.com andwww.facebook.com/kraft.

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

::8 Years and Counting:: A Marriage Reflection

For many of you who know us, you should know that Ricardo and I have grown-up together. We were teens when we met. 15 years later and after 8 years of marriage, 2 toddlers, and a lots of good and bad we are still here. Together. In love. In our own way. My Hubby is not your typical romantic who remembers the small things the way I do. For a long time, I really disliked him for it. But, then I slowly began to realize who he is...



He is above all a thoughtful and determined provider for his family, organized and mindful of what we can and cannot afford.

He is a happy father who LOVES his children unconditionally.

He loves me and cares for me.

He tries every day to be better person.

He brings me flowers when I am mad. It counts. A lot.

He accepts me and my crazy ideas but he doesn't always agree with me.

He is my Husband, a Father, a Brother, a Son, a Brother-in-Law and a Son-in-Law as well as a friend to many.

He is an intelligent man with his own plan, trying to focus on his goals.

His laugh is contagious.



He is the love of my life. My one and only. My always and forever. NO matter how much we argue and say things...we are still together. Making it through the struggles of everyday.

Marriage is not easy. Living with another person for years and years is not easy. It's work. Everyday a new day. Everyday a new challenge. We work at our marriage, some days are good, some are bad and others are great. On the worse days we give each other space, we hear each other out but we never run away.

Marriage has been a blessing, a life changing experience and a life time commitment. I don't plan on giving up and I am sure and blessed that he will not give up either.

People will see us and judge us, as individuals for what we are not or what we don't do, or what we lack or what they think we are. But, in the end Him and I know each other, what we have been through and where we are going. Nothing else matters. Ever.

The goal is to make it and make it good. Our vision are two children. They will see us, they will follow us, they will know what and who we are, they are watching us and for them, we will do our best to be great. For them, for us and for each other as individuals.



I say it all the time. Our lives are not perfect, nor do we claim it or pretend to be that way. Our lives are together and together we make it work. Some days we are happy, others we are sad and some days we are very, very mad but always together.

We try every day to make the best of what we have. We don’t have it all. We might not have the best but we have love…every day.

Ricardo, I love you. I don’t tell you enough how much I appreciate you and admire you, for your strength, your courage and your determination. I love you…..until death do us part. Happy 8th year wedding anniversary, and happy 15 year anniversary of being together.

Friday, August 15, 2014

::Friday Letters:: are back!!

::Friday Letters::





Dear Friday, THANK YOU FOR BEING HERE! Can I get an AMEN! ::NO really:: I decided on Monday that I would start my Friday Letters again and for some reason Friday took forever to get here!! Longest week ever!! Hellooooo Friday!!!

Dear Hubby, Thank you for your support this week. And, every week. Even though I gripe and complain. And, blah and ahhh. Oh yeah and Grrrrrrrr and GRRRRRR all week long. I don’t mean it. Ever. You are awesome. You love me. You support my crazy last minute ideas and this here blog and you don’t judge me. Except for when I leave the milk open and when I do the whole laughing thing online like this… haha. Ha.

Dear Kids, I might say you are pain in my butt all week but I love you. You are a bit of a pain but it comes with the whole…”Santiago/Camila, I am your Momma“ thing. I love you more than words. Everything I do, I do it with our future in mind, your wellbeing and your college fund. Just sayin’. You are kind of expensive, BUT you are worth it and I pray you are smart. Just sayin’!!

Dear Summer, WOOOOOOHHHH! You have been BUSY but a TRUE blessing! Every experience has been taken in, embraced and written about on my blog or social media sites. I know people are tired of me but that’s ok. I have a purpose. I have a goal. I am driven. My vision becomes clear with every step. My motivation and inspiration grows with every new opportunity given. Thank you Summer you have been extra GOOD to me, my PayPal account thanks you! ::wink wink::

Dear Life, don’t allow me to reach the top and if I do knock me back down, bring me back to my roots, remind me of why I started this and WHO I started this for. Allow me to remain humble but proud of my accomplishments and limit my cockiness so that people don’t hate me. And, if they do hate me, oh well, I can’t please everyone. Just sayin’! At the end of the day solo hay un camino y ese camino es para adelante!!

Dear Friends, Family, Acquaintances and New Friends and Business Relationships, THANK YOU for believing, for supporting, for taking a risk with me. Hugs and positive vibes to you all!!

Dear Universe, BRING IT ON! ::closes eyes tightly and waits to be hit by the universe:: Ha. I am thinking it all up in a dream and then putting it out there in the universe and being brave and having the courage to take off. And, believing in myself! I will take you on. Some days I know I will fall flat on my face with my words, action and personality but other days I hope to conquer you, learn and continue to grow!


Happy Friday Ya’ll!!!!!!!!!!!!


What’s on the books for your Friday??

Thursday, August 14, 2014

{La Pulga} #northsidehouston


So, let me keep it real for you. And, I mean real.

My parents are Mexican. So am I.

Ever since I can remember,especially from my memories living here in Houston, my parents have never been "fancy eaters". We have always been simple. And, yes we have always enjoyed the Pulga {or Flea Market}.

Here in Houston there is no doubt that one of the most aged flea markets is the "Airline Flea Market" which has many other names or references but that's how I know it. La Pulga de la Airline.





It's unique Mexican style Tianguis setup and authentic food, music and atmosphere really makes me feel comfortable and not quite in Mexico but at least close to it.

I have always loved Houston for this very reason, no matter how far we are from the Mexican border we somehow have managed to recreate many Mexican classics in a very "American" city. Places like the Mercado and the Panaderia are also some of my favorites also interestingly enough located on Airline.




Northside Houston is where I grew up, so I was no stranger to these places. Now that I am a adult with children of my own, we opted for living a bit outside of the city and in a more "rural" location. But, that doesn't keep us from our favorite places in town. We visit at least 2 or 3 times a month or as often as we visit my Mom and Dad at their home, which sometimes is every weekend.



My kids have been exposed to all types of food, places and people and they too  are no strangers to these where-abouts. We love it because while it's not fully authentic in location it's very similar and teaches our kids a lot about different Mexican traditions and really a lot about how my Hubby and I grew up.  


What about you? What are some favorite places that you feel are authentic to your roots and that you want your children to grow up with?







Wednesday, August 13, 2014

::August:: #morethanamonth

::August::


It's  not only the month I met my Husband in 1999, even then he wasn't just some guy who wanted to date me and called me every other day from a payphone, he was different. Could I tell you that he would now be the same man who I married and had dos children with? No. Probably not. At 18 life for me was uncertain. My immediate family wasn't as stable as a family would want, to think that one day my dad could walk me down the aisle and that he would later be around to see me give birth to his grandchildren. It was complicated.



It's also the month that 6 years later in 2005, my Hubby would  propose to me on the same day we met August 13th...only after I was being nosy, as usual and found my engagement ring in the glove compartment of his 2000-something Jetta. It was still a special moment 6 years in the making. 


A year later in 2006, on a rainy Houston day we got married. August 19th.


3 years after that, in August of 2009, we were a month a away from having our first child. A son born September 16th. We thought then we were complete... 



Imagine our surprise when almost a year later, once more in August, while we were away on an Internship trip with my Hubby I would find  out I was pregnant again, this time  with my daughter, Camila. She was born in March of 2011. Now we feel complete but we have no idea what more the universe has in store for us. 

And, we are waiting and ready for whatever that may be.....

Oh yeah, did I mention that it is also my Hubby's Birthday month, this year the big 3-5!! 




 
Without even thinking about it, August has so much significance in our lives. It continues to bring blessings and positive outcomes for our little family of 4.  

What  month, is more than just a month for you? 

Tuesday, August 12, 2014

::Date-Night Tuesday:: #makeupmonday

If you know me, you know that I am not much of a make-up kinda Momma. At all. Ever. I am more of a "let's get dressed and out the door before we regret this" kinda person. When I first had my children I would ruin my possible days of being out and about by stressing over how "perfect" we all had to look. Reality quickly set in as toddler-land grew and these days, we get it done, no matter what we look like. I realized that my kids and I will never please anyone with our "perfect" appearances. Therefore, we are who are and we attempt to step out in style every once in a while but for the most part we are a normal, everyday Mexican looking family. We are okay with this, really! 

This past Friday the Hubby and I decided to have date-night for a friends 50th birthday dinner. My Momma was going to come over after work and help us out with the kids. She is the best Mexican GranMa ever, she did my laundry and cleaned my kitchen by the time we got back. She arrived at my house that night and I had not had a chance to get the kids dinner, so I ran out to the grocery store. In thinking of getting ready for that night I remembered that I have a 3 year old daughter who thinks she works for M-A-C at the mall. Needless to say, I no longer own eye shadow brushes, lipstick or mascara. 

While at the grocery store that night I decided to buy some new make-up, yes grocery store! Kroger to be exact, I know some fancy make-up lady is pulling her hair out right now. But, I think I did pretty good and I only paid about $14. I am a pretty practical Momma and very low-maintenance. I think this is the first mascara and lipstick I buy in about 3 years.



I bought the following:

Eyeshadow Brushes (Kroger brand) $5.99
Mascara (Cover Girl) $3.99
Lipstick/Lipgloss (Cover Girl) $3.49




and this was the result; probably NOT the best picture of me that night but it's all I have:



What about you? Where do you shop for make-up and what does your make-up bag look like?


Thursday, August 7, 2014

W2W Conference #w2wempowered #iwokeuplikethis

::Momma Disclosure:: {This is not a compensated post. I was invited to attend the Woman 2 Woman Empowerment Conference here in Houston by Total Beauty Ladies Events. All statements below and opinions are my own and are true and honest.}

When it comes to people, places and things; I am constantly seeking to be inspired, motivated and moved to action. In the same fashion I aspire to inspire, motivate and move others into action. Sometimes I succeed. Other times I realize, it’s just not up to me! If the person receiving is not receptive or open to change the way I see it, then they will remain and move at their own pace and I move on.

Destiny:
This past weekend I attended the Woman 2 Woman Empowerment Conference for the first time after connecting through YES, social medial with the amazing Shunte, and let me tell you amazing does not cover the entire description of who Shunte Davis-Gamble is! I am so happy that our paths crossed at this very moment in our lives. We have quickly gained an on-line and now in-person friendship, that I know will go far. Plus her personality just makes it so much easier to love her! 

Purpose:


If you know me, you know that I take it all in. No matter how interested or interesting I am still evaluating, dissecting and embracing the moment. Last week was a busy one for me. I wasn't sure if I would be "in the mood" for Saturday morning. But, seeing Shunte posts on FB and her daily enthusiasm, really pushed me out of bed and into the conference that morning. I am beyond glad that I made it.

I arrived and didn't know anyone, but felt comfortable. As I walked in I met Shunte, her smile, her warm and welcoming embrace and her words... Was it fun!?!? {She was asking me about the Beyonce and Jay-Z concert, I won the tickets through her group and the conference!} Immediately I felt amazing! I felt as if I belonged. 

I found a table in the breakfast area and yes, quickly made connections and friends. Shunte came in introduced herself...with her signature "HEY YAAAA'LLLL!!" She is a born natural. Her speaking and presence, so gentle yet so admirable and notable!

Then we transitioned into our first workshop, were we created our name tags and paper-bags to fill with daily affirmations for one another. A great exercise for a room filled with strong, confident Women. Mind you I didn't know Shunte personally before this day, when she came in and started to explain our task she stated that she was Teacher by day. It was at that point that everything made sense, it's evident in her actions that she was born to lead a room filled with people who are eager and willing to learn.

Who is Shunte, she is a petite woman with SO much personality, so much character and so much heart and passion. As she walked around explaining how we should label ourselves and our bags she was patient and concise about what she wanted us to do. Name our selves based on an adjective that best describes us. So easy, yet so difficult. Mine became Cheerful Connie. The ladies around me quickly became identifiable...Classy, Sexy, and Mighty.... these were just a few adjectives used. I loved them all.



Speakers:
And, as if one wonderful woman with a whole lot of power wasn't enough, my world quickly brighten as I had one of my personal "meet and greet goals" met.

I am big on volunteer work here in the Houston area. Since having my children I have limited it to a few events and organization a year. One that I do yearly is the HLSR, as a part of a committee we are often asked to make time to appear either on TV or at events. Well I usually opt for TV, and one place that we visit every year is the Debra Duncan show here in Houston. Every time I go I am in awe of the functions and how it all gets put together, mostly because of one special lady. She is bright and precise and very professional. To my surprise she also knows Shunte, so I was ecstatic when I recognized her as she got organized by the podium. Who is she?!?!



Alexis Herron, one of my personal favorites. Seeing her outside of TV land and hearing her speak was definitely the cherry on top for that morning. Her "I" affirmations of who she is and who we are as women; strong, confident and powerful, allowed me to realize that I had not fallen into my seat that morning by chance but by grace and yes...by God. She spoke to us about, reaffirming who we want to be and being who we say we are! She played THE song... you know... FLAWLESS... I woke up like this. And, by the end of her speech, I felt not only empowered and yes flawless but refreshed and happy to be who I am! If you have not heard her speak or you do not know her, I invite you to find her online and follow her!  I didn't miss the opportunity to tell her that I am a huge fan of her...... and I know that I met her for a reason....



Shana Naylor, the Real Single Mom's Club. As a blogger I am often added to groups or peoples personal pages and I become connected with different people. When I added Shana I knew she was a Realtor and we had Shunte in common I did my quick research and then added her to my FB page. So, when she came across the table at breakfast that morning handing out her card, I was happy to meet her in person. Then I realized she too was one of the speakers. And, even though at this point, I knew who she was and what she looked like in person, I didn't know her story. She spoke of divorce and how she gained an education with each relationship loss, which I think should be her book {#authorstatus Shana}. A story of triumph as a Single Momma out of what could not have turned out so well. Her ability to thrive despite her circumstances which for many Single Momma's would be inspirational to know how she did it. Seeing her daughter a soon to be college student, placed me in awe of their story.



Vendors, Awards and Panel ::During Lunch::
We enjoyed a fantastic and tasty lunch from Dinner for Two Catering. During lunch this set of ladies composed our discussion panel;

Dr. Shiree A. Berry, Shalanda Turner-Engineer & Fashion Blogger, Arnaecia Alridge-Marketing Entreprenuer, & the funny Rayla a Comedian and Business Owner.

Their insight, personalities and attitude towards life was wonderful. They did so well with one another and complimented each-other as they answered all of our questions. During this hour several ladies were recognized for their outstanding work in the community. It was great to be among the honorees for Woman on the Rise award, I am humbled and thankful! Then we mingled where I met Missy G., one of  the cute fashion bloggers in the group! We spoke to the vendors and took samples of products! My favorite booth was that of Origami Owl headed by Ms. LaMeka Washington. Then.....the dancing started and that's when the real fun began!



I just want to congratulate not just Shunte for her outstanding work leading this conference but also her parents, for supporting her. Above all for believing in their daughter and her vision. As a blogger I know what it's like to follow a path and a vision that very few are willing to walk along side you and that less understand... I loved this conference and what it stands for in the Houston Community!