{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?

::Seeking::

A while back I set out to find my "Dream Job", because despite what my situation is right now, I have faith that, that place is still out there for me. I have since found a job. A good job but not what I would consider ideal. I know, "Connie you are so picky and such a non-conformist!" Trust me, I often question my own credibility. I wonder if maybe it's true, it's not the environment but rather me, who has a problem. I am never happy, so my Hubby says.

Is that such a bad thing? 

I mean really. I have been to so many places and  I have come so far. I went to college. Should be, 'nuff said. But, then there is this long history of paid work and un-paid work or volunteering. I mean. Not to toot my own horn, but I have been told that my background is pretty darn impressive and I am proud of that. As a Woman, as a Mexican-American and now as a Momma; I am very proud of my education and work history. Even my un-successful time as a Stay-at-Home-Momma which I failed at miserably, but that's a whole other post in itself. Trust me when I say..having kids and staying home is NOT for everyone! Yes, it has it's rewards and pro's but still not for everyone.

So, in further seeking I continue on this path of applications and interviews. And, I am once again haunted by that question; where do you see yourself in 5 years? Which to me translates into what is the perfect job for you and what do you want from this current situation? As one person put it; "I want to sit on a beach and drink margarita's all day and get paid for it." Really, come on, who the heck wouldn't but since that may or may not be an option for me I am not only determined but involved in seeking that perfect job, that perfect place. Just the other day I had an interview; when the manager spoke to me, she had LIFE.  When someone has true passion and purpose, you can see it in their face through their determination. You can hear it in their voice through their story and their words. And, they inspire you to do more and motivate you to live beyond what you think is normal.

That is where I see myself in 5 years. I challenge myself to live beyond what I think is normal and fitting not only for my well-being, financial stability and mental growth but what I deem a position that my children can look up to and be proud of. Yes, they should and can be proud of my accomplishments until now but I am not a conformist remember. I don't like to settle. I never have. If I did, I wouldn't have left a small town in 1999, to become a city girl. If I did I would have allowed the stereotypes and what-if's to consume me.  If I settled I wouldn't be a home-owner and drive an SUV. {Not bragging, just sayin'... Si se puede!} And, because I have SO much more to prove not to anyone but myself, I seek.

That passion. That job. And, that determination.

What about you? Are you a constant seeker? I know I am.

{Blogging?} Que es Eso?

It's what I feel like the last couple of months if it weren't for my deadlines over at  Houston Mom's Blog and Houston Latina Bloggers ,I probably wouldn't be writing at all.

It's been busy and now it's cold so I have excuses. Ha.

{It's funny but when tough times come not many are around, it helps you appreciate the silence and those who are willing to not only listen but help when help is needed. The last few weeks have been difficult because you know Life is that way sometimes. I don't like to complain {but I do, I am human right? Definitely try to change this...daily.}, I don't like to "over-share" my troubles {as funny as that may sound, considering I have a blog and am all over all the social media sites.} and I don't tend to dwell {at least not anymore} on people, situations or thoughts.}

These days, what happened today. Well it pretty much stays there. My children and my Hubby need me on a day to day basis. They hear me out and I move on.

With that said. Life is busy and complicated some days. I can't promise much but I will say this...feel free to look around, check out my Facebook page I am there daily! We have a neat daily post going on right now; our November Thankful countdown to Thanksgiving where we share what we are thankful for on a daily basis.

I also have the following sites where you can follow me and keep up to date on what is going on with us:

Pintrest:http://pinterest.com/mommaofdos/
Twitter:https://twitter.com/MommaofDosTX
Instagram:@mommaofdos


{ I don't believe life was meant to be easy, if not what fun would that be...every day can be a challenge but overcoming those challenges are not only adventures but definitely worth it. A learning experience in every moment good or bad.}

~Just sayin'

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS {Meca}

{Momma Disclosure: This is not a sponsored or paid post. All thoughts expressed are my own beliefs and honest opinion.} 

Houston is filled with so many vibrant cultures and traditions. I of coarse love the Mexican {Hispanic/Latino} traditions. One that I want my children to learn about is El Dia de Los Muertos. It's not only a great way to learn more about our family history but also appreciate life as a whole. 

El Dia de los Muertos is traditionally celebrated by placing items at the deceased family members grave site or tomb. Not only bringing food offerings that the family member liked but also those things that you believe he or she would enjoy on this day. The altars are created with festive colors, fresh fruits and homemade dishes as well as pictures and personal items that belonged to the deceased; as a way to remember the life that this person lead while they were still among us. The belief is that on November 2nd your loved ones spirit returns to sit and enjoy those items brought to their grave site. 

It's difficult now to show my children this exact replica since most my family is buried in Reynosa, Tamaulipas and Cuernavaca, Morelos. I hope that one day they can accompany me to Mexico where we can fully celebrate life and honor those who have left our lives but still live deep within our hearts. 

On this day I remember not only one but several Woman who have some how impacted my life. From my father's family; my Grandmother Soccorro who passed away a couple of week before my 14th birthday, my Tia Lucy {My Dad's Sister} who passed away when I was a Senior in H.S., and my Tia Angelica {even her name means Angel} who passed away when I was 21. From my Mom's family; my Great Grandmother whom I was ultimately named after Maria del Consuelo and my Tia Nieves both whom passed away long before I was born and my Tia Lola our most recent loss she was a amazing woman of great faith and great impact in her family and community. Along with, my Great Grandfather Titos who passed away at 99 years old and several uncles.

From my Husband's family and someone that my kids will learn a lot about is his Grandfather, Don Victor, who passed away 9 months before we found out we would have our first baby. My Husband was very close to his Grandfather and he is someone who was very important to him. 

Next year I think we will create an altar. My children are more aware of their surroundings these days and the questions flow like clock-work. I know they will learn from the experience and enjoy creating an altar. In the mean time for the second year in a row we visited Meca for their annual Altar Exhibit. The colors, the items brought forth, the history and lost loved ones remembered just fill me with knowledge of how deep and rich our culture is. As well as how fragile and short life can be. 

Meca will also have their Calavera Rendezvous Fundraiser this Friday November 1st from 7 to 11pm and then their Dia de Los Muertos Festival on Saturday November 2nd and Sunday November 3rd this event is free and open to the public! Great way to explore Houston and find out more about El Dia de Los Muertos' history. Please visit their website for more information on all of the upcoming festivities. 

www.Meca-Houston.org

Early {New} Year Re-solutions

So, you thought 2013 would be a year full of purpose and direction and it's now October and you can't seem to see your vision. But, why? No worries, re-direct and get it together!

I had many goals for this year. Sure most of them were accomplished and maybe slightly re-directed but honestly sometimes life is life and it just doesn't happen how you envisioned. Well, now is the time to start re-thinking those goals for the rest of this year. And yes, why not for 2014? Trust me, it will be here before we know it. It’s never too early to start thinking about what we want for ourselves.

 

A few ways that I plan on getting back on track are:

Re-Organizing~ I started my year as a Stay@HomeMomma and then converted back to being a WorkingOutsidetheHomeMomma so my every day has been flipped up-side down! It's been almost 5 months and I think I am finally finding a new balance. Schedules are falling into place. Energy and motivation are finally back. My best advice; don't take on too much and when you feel overwhelmed take a break! 

Re-Thinking~ I am going to go over my goals and re-think, re-evaluate and re-prioritize what I feel needs to get done to accomplish some of my personal, home and blogging goals! I think everything in life can be re-written no need to get flustered or upset...just re-think it! 

Take Action~ After I am done re-organizing myself and re-thinking what and how things will be done the rest of the year and in 2014; then I will definitely be set to TAKE ACTION! I want to not only be a person of words but also of actions! 

What about you? Have you thought about way to start over and start planning for next year?!

Raising Bi-Cultural Children {Toddlers Mexicanos}

I think that when most people think of Bi-Cultural children you look for them to have parents with two different races or nationalities. It's not the case in our home. Both my Husband and I are born and raised Texans. I was born in Brenham and he was born here in Houston. 

The difference is that both of us have parents that were born in Mexico and came to the U.S. many years ago to work. 

From September 15th thru October 15th Hispanics all over the U.S. celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. http://hispanicheritagemonth.gov/ Being of Mexican descendant,  I not only celebrate U.S. holidays but I also celebrate many Mexican holidays. Such as, Mexico's Independence day which is September 16th, not to be confused with 5 de Mayo which is when Mexico won the Battle of Puebla. 

Here in Houston there are several places that you can go to help your children learn more about and celebrate the Hispanic culture. Places like the Houston Library have family friendly events that are free and open to the public, http://www.houstonlibrary.org/hhm-events . And, the Miller Outdoor Theater which has presentations such as Traditional Folkloric dance presentation called Mexicanisimo; http://milleroutdoortheatre.com/events/464/

There are also places that have events year round such as Talento Biligue de Houston http://www.talentobilingue.org/ and MECCA http://meca-houston.org/. Both places on the top of my list to visit in the next few months as the Day of Dead {El Dia de Los Muertos} approaches. 

I believe in embracing my roots and teaching my children to do the same; we celebrate a variety of holidays in our home which will help them learn not only about our America culture but also about our Mexican background.  

{Friday Update!} #BEconference

Happy Friday Everyone!!!!

Hope you enjoyed our posts this week the lovely ladies... Sybil and Darlene are really good friends and they are always so nice to share and join me on my Blog adventures!

As you may know I am at the Blog Elevated Conference today!!!! Focused and ready to learn and take it all in. So, yes....stay tuned to lots of fun recap posts next week! Follow me on Twitter {@MommaofDosTX} so that you can see what all the hoopla is about and maybe next year you will join us....



Last year I attended my first conference and I urge all Bloggers to attend at least one Conference per year, even if it's local because trust me  you will learn SO much and meet SO many great people!  I can't wait to come back next week and share all of my new experiences with you. Also, watch for my upcoming post over at Houston Moms Blog! I have a pretty great local restaurant review coming up, pretty excited about it!

Hope you enjoy your Friday and have a great weekend!

See you back here next week......

{Inspired} Momma with a Mission~Part Dos

{Bella & Darlene's Story continued.....}

Even though Bella was delivered via emergency c-section, we thought the worst part was over. Relief overflowed as I sat waiting in the recovery room waiting to come off of the anesthesia. I remember feeling doozy but at the same time so alive and high, just really genuinely high on life! 

The highest high I had ever felt in my life. 

As I laid there by myself waiting for my husband or baby to join my side, I laid there and tried to let everything sink in and all that was happening around me.  

And then, my husband came into the recovery room to join me and told me something I could never forget and took more than just my breath away. 

“The doctor says Bella has Down Syndrome,” is what Alex said. 

At that very moment, we went from feeling the utmost high to the lowest of all lows. We both just cried… and cried some more… We didn't know how to deal with having a special needs child. We were both 21-years old and naive as can be. We thought everything was going to be perfect. We already had huge plans for our daughter. The moment we became parents our top priority changed. There was a new person who meant more to us now than ourselves. The only other kind of person who conquered our heart, the #1 spot and that was our child, Bella Mia… 

We were aware that she would entail a little extra special attention, a little extra love, nevertheless, the important thing is that she has a little extra instilled in herself. A little extra enthusiasm to life, a little extra innocence, a little extra charm and of course a little extra chromosome of the 21^st pair that inspires so much fear in parents-to-be. 

Fast forward five years later… 

Raising a child with Down syndrome has brought significant changes to our life as well as immense perspective. Bella has helped us see there’s an infinitely more to life than intelligence, beauty and what we perceive perfection to be. I don’t know anyone else who holds as much love as Bella does. She is truly a gift from God. She has inspired me to not be fearful and chase after what I believe in. I now know that Bella was a huge part of God’s plan. Even though she cannot speak I hear it, I feel it and I see it. I hear her tell me she loves me through the noises she makes, I feel it with the hugs she gives me and I even see it in the twinkle of her eyes. 

Bella is a Kindergartener who enjoys going to school on the bus every morning and participating in circle time. Although she is non-verbal and has a really hard time communicating, she still shows the most love. She has always been a humongous cuddle bug. And, she will surprise you when she steals your iPhone, swipes it on, finds YouTube and will even get Elmo playing. Hahahaha. 

I started blogging to document some important milestones. And, it honestly took off from there. Since I got into reading other mom blogs, I noticed I never came across special needs moms or special needs parenting. So, I took it from there. I saw a need and told myself I would passionately seek it because I can’t be the only person out there looking for this type of connection, relation and therapy. 

As touchy as it may be, it truly is therapeutic for me to write about this stuff. What started off as a support group on Facebook that I titled, “A Little Xtra” evolved into a website with a blog sharing my experience as a mom raising a special needs child. And then a powerful podcast emerged all about the special needs community, which has now become a movement. I make no money doing this. I actually lose money. But it’s not about the money.

It’s about filling the void and spreading awareness because one flicker of a light switch in someone else’s thoughts can trigger a dark mind to be bright. You never know when that “light-bulb” moment of inspiration can happen in someone. I hope to be able to bring various topics to the table so that my audience doesn't feel alone. And so that others who may not know much about living with special needs can gain some valuable perspective and motivate them to do more with their abilities, not disabilities. 

And so friends, whether you’re religious, spiritual or scientific, it doesn't matter because we still can relate on many other levels. I tend to live by several principles, the main one being The Golden Rule,

“Do unto others as you would want others to do unto you.” 

It means so much to me because I believe what goes around, comes around.  And, I don’t know, I just like people. I challenge myself to be as open-minded as I can be, so that I may be prone to understanding new ways of life that I may benefit from or better yet; help someone else benefit from. And as negative as this motto sounds, I always remind myself that things could always be worse and to find the hope in everything because hope keeps you going. No matter how severe of a situation you are dealing with, I feel it’s important to remind yourself why you do what you do. 

As I mentioned before, I know Bella was given to me for a reason. Everybody has a calling in life, we all are made for something. Your real job in life is to figure out what that is and get to it! We are what we think and what we do. I will always be grateful for the cards that have been dealt to me. But I’m especially grateful that I allowed myself the chance to recognize it with a tolerant mind. There is no greater love for my children and I will forever in my heart do what I can for my babies. 

{About Darlene}

Please contact me if you’d like to share your story. You may reach me anytime @Darlasworld86 on every social media site out there.

To follow our journey with “A Little Xtra” please follow us @alittlextra21 on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, You Tube, Google +, Vine, Soundcloud, etc.

(Ay! This is turning into a paragraph on it’s own! Lol)

www.alittlextra.org

{Inspired} Momma with a Mission

Have you ever had to write about yourself?

As easy as it sounds, it’s not very easy.  I know once I get started, I won’t be able to stop but it’s always the getting started part that gets me stuck! Bare with me as I spill my heart out and let you in on what I’m all about. So… Hi there! I’m Darlene. I was born on Groundhog’s Day back in 1986, which makes me 27-and a half years old. Born and raised in Southern California and still here… (writers block occurring, uh-oh…)

Okay, so… What else? Well… I’m a lot of things so I’ll start with my most important and go from there. As corny as this sounds, I was able to marry my best friend from high school. It’s definitely been a blessing because I always thought I’d be the type to never get married or have kids. I envisioned myself as being this extremely successful, independent woman that didn’t have to worry about anyone else but herself. And then, just like that… BOOM! 

I fell in love! Hahaha. 

Totally turned my life around. 

I always tell Alex, he was the only exception. He was the only guy I would instantly dismiss my selfish dreams for without a thought. And, I’m very glad I did because there’s no one out there that could fill his spot. No one. We had been friends all through out high school and I would tell him about my boyfriends, he’d tell me about his girlfriends, we’d talk about our problems, complain about homework, talk all night long about serious stuff and just all the other things you talk about with your best friend. But, what really drew us closer was all that we shared in common, which was our taste in music and humor. I knew I was crazy about him a year before we ever stepped beyond friendship, but he had his own thing going on at the moment and I wasn't going to dare tell him I liked him until it was the right time. Low and behold, our Senior year was approaching it's end, we were talking on the phone while we played our latest downloaded playlist, which happened to be a mix of R&B Slow jams, mainly lovey-dovey music (all obvious! lol). 

Suddenly, the entire mood totally changed and I could sense the conversation was steering somewhere new for us. We finally mustered up the courage to tell each other how we felt over AIM (AOL Instant Messenger). I remember sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for him to respond. Hahaha. From that moment on, we were crazy about each other, inseparable, head over heels in love… Everything moved fast, we told each other we loved one another the night we shared our first kiss, we got to experience our Senor Prom together and enjoyed life after high school, going out, exploring our independence, living together, going to college, turning life into adventures… and then the biggest adventure approached us~ Parenthood! BOOM! (There goes that boom again.) 

This time it was an extremely exciting boom! The day I found out I was pregnant, it was like a light switch turned on in my heart that I had never turned on before. It was a very exciting day filled with nervous jitters and happiness.

We were way into it. Each week we’d read up on our daughter’s developmental stage and what was forming than. Month-by-month, we’d take pictures and get more excited as the bump grew, started prepping our home for our baby girl that was soon to arrive. Life was going perfect for us... 

Or so we thought, with our naive sense, we never even thought about complications being a possibility, so you know what was coming next… BOOM! BOOM!! BOOM!!! 

Emergency C-Section, overly tensed nerves and 100% pure fright, and then life at that particular moment really threw us a curve-ball. More like, a curve-ball that went too curvy and ended up hitting us. And now this time, the BOOM hit us where it would leave us, in pain and forever sore. 

Our lives would forever change.

{Come back tomorrow to read the rest of Darlene's Story.....}

{Guest Blogger} Sybil

{Sleeping in Goggles: The Beauty of a Child's Imagination}

Like many nights before, the kids, hubby and I were all getting ready for bed. We were brushing our teeth, putting on our pajamas, preparing the pillows and blankets for our nightly rest. While checking in to make sure the kids were almost ready to go to sleep, I saw my oldest sitting in bed, trying to put on some water goggles my mother had bought her the day before.

"Ixchel, what are you doing with those?" I asked.

"I want to wear them," she answered.

At this point it was getting late and I brushed this nonsense aside, took the goggles from her and hung them on the headboard.

"Ixchel, you can't wear those to bed. Goggles are for the water. Anyways, they are going to bother you at night. I'm going to hang them right here so you don't lose them!"

"Okay, Mami," she replied.

I went on with the nightly routine and, after I was finally ready to kiss my babies goodnight, a smile came across my face when I saw my beautiful Leah Ixchel laying in bed, sleeping with her goggles on.

At first I chuckled at the sight of my little girl wearing those things in bed. But then I paused and I really took in the sight before me. It was magical! It brought thoughts of fantasy, adventure, exploration and imagination to my mind! I wondered whether my little girl was off on a scuba diving expedition or maybe she was in an airplane flying high in the sky.

When I saw her laying there, wearing those goggles, I was glad she hadn't listened to me. I didn't want to squash her sense of wonder, her sense of imagination. I want to nurture that and be the one who supports her in all her endeavors (be they imaginary or not). As a matter of fact, I wish I could bring back that childhood innocence I once had in me.

Many times we get caught up in everyday life: going to work, running errands, paying bills... just being practical, being adults! We might as well be on auto pilot, seeing that sometimes we can't distinguish one day from another because the days are all too similar. And just like we can fall victim to routine, our kids can be subject to it too: do your homework, do your chores, do this, do that!

So here's what I want to do. I want to build forts out of blankets and chairs and camp out in the living room, I want to fashion pirate swords out of cardboard and go searching for treasure, or maybe use a makeshift spaceship to travel across space and discover new planets.

Seeing how the adult world can keep me busy and I'll probably forget how inspired I was, I need to make sure to tell the kiddos my plan because I'm sure they'll make sure that I don't forget!

{About Sybil}

Sybil is an aspiring Houston Latina blogger. When not hesitating to write for herself, you will find her writing and producing for a local Spanish television station’s Community Affairs Department, where she has been since August 2003. Sybil graduated in May 2003 from the University of St. Thomas with a Bachelor’s in Communications and Spanish, minor in Theology.  Sybil is the mother of three beautiful children and wife of Francisco Sánchez.

You can read more from her at www.sybilblog.wordpress.com and follow her on Twitter @sybil_sanchez, Instagram: @sybil_sanchez and LinkedIn: Sybil Moncivais Sanchez.

{Vacation Mode} Summer 2013

Do you often find that coming back from vacation or getting back into a routine after a long time away from it to be a little well, difficult?!

So, we got back from vacation almost 3 weeks ago and we still couldn't manage to get it together;until this weekend! I think the 3 day weekend allowed for that extra time needed to adjust. We are still working on schedules, between being on vacation and being sick timing is off.



Here are FIVE things that just had me feeling overwhelmed and well, a little off:

1) Laundry; I could't manage to get it under control with Dos toddlers who are constantly changing and between the Hubby and I and our work clothes and home clothes. I had to finally just wash, wash, wash...and then fold and put it all away in 2 days! It took a lot  but it's finally done!

2) Dishes; we often find ourselves using disposable dishes and still constantly filling the dishwasher or hand washing dishes. Again, I got home one afternoon and washed dishes until I couldn't wash dishes anymore...I did a double dose; ran the dish washer and hand washed as may dishes as I could! Finally getting the job done.

3) Unpacking! Yes, it had been almost 3 weeks and our suitcases were still sitting in our bedroom with some of our stuff still in them. The day{s} that I did laundry I finished emptying them and put them back in the garage! Until our next little getaway....

4) Getting Organized! So, last week I heard some good advice and I can't get it out of my head; Do one thing tonight that will make your morning easier! Last night, I set aside the kids clothes for today and I made sure that the kitchen and living room were clean. It's not something I usually get to do because I run off to bath time and then bed time, usually falling asleep before I can get organized. But, I think this is something I need to keep going.

5) Schedules; being a Blogger {and working outside the home} a schedule is really a blurred line... I Blog when my kids fall asleep but it's getting them to bed while my light is still on and the clickity-clack of my keyboard is going off that's a challenge. Usually we try to be in bed between 9 and 10:30pm. It's a little late but it works for us. Thankfully when the lights go out the kids fall asleep but it's those afternoon/nights when our schedule is super busy or I have too may things to do for the next day that our times are off but we try.

What kind of things keep you organized and going, or ready for the next day?

In our home we take it one day at a time because every day brings a new challenge... but we try to  be as prepared as possible! Un dia a la vez....  

"Sun in the Closet"

It's the best expression I have heard in a while....

I heard it this weekend as a good friend assessed my current job and abilities.

"Really Connie? It's like putting the Sun in the closet."

I couldn't help but smile and think....

It's true. You know those moments of shade or maybe even darkness in your life...when the Sun is stuck in the closet?

There come moments in life when we don't have all the answers, when we don't know what direction is best, and when we just don't shine the way we used to...

I think Dr. Seuss said it best in "Oh, the places you'll Go!" when he stated....

"And when you're in a Slump,
you're not in for much fun.
Un-slumping yourself
is not easily done."

{Yes, I totally just opened the book and looked for this line....}

Not sure what kind of a place I am in but what ever it is, it's not my usual place.

Maybe I am in that place right before the door is ready to open and the Sun is peeking through waiting for the perfect moment to shine bright again and say... "HERE I AM!"

Maybe it's a moment of change and transformation, that I am not quite aware of...or that isn't very clear.

What ever it is, it's a weird place and I am ready for the Sun to shine once more outside the closet....just don't know how to get it going again.

If motivation, and inspiration surround me, then what is stopping me?

No idea.

But, I am ready to let the Sun out of the closet and let it SHINE! Shine. SHINE! Shine.

{::meme credit:: created by: memegenerator.net}

Inspired. {Traveling Hubby}

{::Momma Note:: This is a series that I created in hopes of inspiring other Momma's in Houston to share their stories and connect with Momma's just like them. I have known Karen for about 2 years now, her and her family NEVER cease to amaze me. Their faith and what God has done and continues to do for them, just reminds me how GREAT life is and how awesome it is to count our Blessings and be happy! Enjoy!!}

Hello! 

My Name is Karen. 

I am from Houston. I am Salvadorian American. I am married and have 3 beautiful kids Noah (5) Emma (3) Aaron (1) and One the way. Yes, I am a busy mom!

My husband and I have been married for 8 years. We married at 18 and three years later started having kids. You know once you start the fun doesn't stop. My husband was born with a retinal disease. It’s a degenerative retinal disease and according to doctors he will eventually lose his eye sight completely. We decided to make the most of our lives and have kids early so he could enjoy every moment before his vision worsened.

He started at the bottom working in a warehouse counting nuts and bolts. Little by little he moved his way up. Every new position, every promotion is such a victory to us because we know the odds we stand against. He got a promotion as an engineering draftsmen and I cannot explain how proud I was of him. How far he had come despite the circumstances. Then shortly after that he was offered an awesome position as a Sales/Engineering coordinator for Mexico operations. I’m his number one fan and was ecstatic about the new position. Then I realized that coordinating for Mexico operations probably meant traveling to Mexico!! I wasn't too sure about that aspect of the job but nothing was mentioned so I figured maybe I was wrong. 

He was only two weeks into the new position, when he tells me He has to go to Mexico for two weeks!! Not days but weeks!! I’m pregnant with the fourth and at that time I was in major morning sickness mode! More like all day sickness. I tried not to panic but it was hard not to when hubby and I are joined at the hip! Well, the day came and he was off for two weeks. That first day was the longest day of my life! I did not know what to do with myself. Nightfall was the worst, the kids were constantly asking for him and when was he going to come home. The two weeks did not fly by. Thank goodness for face time! I really think that helped the kids cope. They got to see him every night and tell him about their day. If not I think they would have felt it way more. It was the highlight of my day.  

As our routine goes I kept us busy and tried to not be home around the time he usually came home because it made evenings hard and long. We enjoyed doing the things we usually don’t get to do. We visited friends and family all over the city. We got to discover new parks. We learned that the library is a great place to spend many hours. The pool became our oasis. I was able to bond with my kids more than ever. It was hard by the end of the two weeks since it was just me with the kids 24 hrs. a day. No little breaks here and there, but I am thankful I had so many friends checking up on me. Cheering me on and welcoming us to their homes especially on the weekends when I felt the loneliest. Every day I received a text from many friends making sure I was ok. Especially the ones with traveling hubbys! 

The biggest challenge is the loneliness and distance. Knowing that at 5 o clock he won’t be coming through our front door ready to hear our stories. The biggest blessing is my husband being able to experience things that we never imagined were going to be possible. My children being able to see how amazing their dad is. How strong their mom is. And the souvenirs are pretty sweet too! As of now He will be traveling maybe one more time before the end of the year. For another two weeks. Rumor has it next year will be a busy year, lots of traveling. I know I can do it all over again. God provided me with so much strength the first time and I know he will continue to do so. I think it will get easier. 

For someone just starting this journey as a wife of a traveling hubby I would say, you can do it! Keep busy and enjoy it! Discover new things around you. Time will pass. It’s OK to get lonely and cry. I did all the time, but most importantly is to have a great support system. Our Motto in our home is “we walk by faith, not by sight” I think this verse has really narrated our lives from the beginning. 

Faith will take you to promised lands. We are loving every minute of our new adventure.

{If you wish to contact Karen and learn more about her family please email her at kdcarrasco3@gmail.com}

{Back-to-School} #staples

{Momma Disclosure: I did not receive compensation for this post but I did receive Staples products in exchange for this review from Staples. The statements below are both my true and honest opinions.}

I still remember it like it was yesterday; the first day of school! Summer vacation is over. You get to see all your friends again and meet all your new teachers. Your stomach is in a knot, your brand new outfit and shoes stand out. The most important part; well at least for me it was, I was a bit of a nerd girl...the backpack filled with school supplies. You remember? The brand new wide ruled notebooks, your trapper-keeper, and of course your number 2 pencils. It was a fun time, these days kids are fully equipped with so many new gadgets and trends and how can they not be with all the new school supplies that Staples carries.

Staples was generous enough to send me samples of all the new gear for heading back to school this year.

I immediately took care of using it all.

Here is what we got:

A. Studio C Neon Zip It Notebook
B. Staples Flexible Calculator {Which is so cute and I am totally taking to work!}
C. Neon Tube Pencil Pouch
D. Martha Stewart Home Office with Avery No-Iron Clothing Labels, 1/2"X1 3/4",24 Pack {LOVE!!!!!}
E. Staples Fashion Portfolios
F. Martha Stewart Home Office with Avery Message Board, Petal
G. Staples BETTER binder, Screen Print

Some of the awesome ways that Staples is helping give back as you spend is with the REWARD-A-CLASSROOM program; when parents shop for students they receive rewards for the teach of their choice!

Another deal that I would love to take advantage of is; the Binder Recycle program, you get $2 off a new binder when you bring in your old binder during the back-to-school season!

Staples also offers weekly back-to-school deals, some as low as a penny just check out their weekly add at: www.staples.com/weeklyad



Here is how we used it:

I quickly filled the binder and folder with the kids daily daycare/school work. I filled my pouch with Cami's hair ties, they get lost all the time. I used our Martha Stewart labels on the extra clothes that we send to daycare in case the kids have an accident. The Zip It notebook I used for all the extra Momma business cards that I hand out, and  like I said I will be taking the calculator to work for my daily number crunching. I also set up our nifty bulletin board to start pinning important school work and notes.





My kids are not yet of school age but they do attend a daycare. Organization is key in my house and I am always trying to find useful ways to keep our home under control. Staples helped me with this!

{Buenos Dias} Mornin'!

When my children wake up. They wake up! Out of bed and into breakfast. 

This morning was a quiet one. 

They had breakfast and I watered my plants. I often forget and I definitely don't have a green thumb but thanks to my Dad and a good friend, today my garden grows. 

What about you? What was are your Saturday mornings about?

{Friday Letters}

Dear Friday, 

why HELLO! So glad you are here!!

Dear Life, 

Thank you for the amazing Blessings that you bring my family and I everyday...we know that at times we treat you bad, we curse you and we even "dislike" you but you know what....we embrace you. We embrace the place we are in right now and even though it's not exactly what we expected, we work hard everyday to reach a new goal and new levels. We are Blessed and we thank you not only for allowing us to grow but for all the amazing opportunities you give us day in and day out to start over....and maybe get things right tomorrow.  

Dear ME, Yes me! 

Don't forget that we are all here for a reason and even though your purpose isn't as clear or as executed as you wish...it will come...your day will come. Be strong, keep the faith and MOVE forward...you are stronger than most and you have survived a lot...you can make it through this.

Dear Hubby, 

It's been a crazy year, soon we will have all kind of celebrations but in advanced....Thank you !! No matter how difficult things have gotten, you put up with my BLAH-NESS and we move forward...together. I don't say it enough..I appreciate you. I love you and I really can't live without you. 

Dear Minions {also known as Cami and Santi}, 

You are the most beautiful Blessings in my life, not sure where my life would be had you not come along. I love you more and more everyday and no matter how much we fight and how many tantrums you throw or how much mess you make or how many times you miss the toilet...I will always love you more than anything ever. Love you Dos. 

Dear Momma Readers, 

In case you missed it... I made a "BIG" announcement this morning.... 

I am officially the newest Contributor for the HOUSTON MOMS BLOG!!!!! If you have not "liked" their Facebook fan page, please do so, SO much FUN to come!!!! The site launches in September so watch for this Momma!!!! I will be sharing more about the group as the month goes by but for now go, PLEASE, and check out HOUSTON MOMS BLOG Facebook page!!!! 

{Sidetracked} Mes de Agosto

It's August! {Hola Agosto!}

I am excited. I think I have said it a million times today but I honestly believe it; August is going to be a good month! 

A lot of fun activities scheduled. As everyone prepares to go "back" to school we just have a continuance of the school year. My kids are in daycare and they go to school, ALL the time. I know some kids would probably cringe but it's true, especially since this Momma got a new job back in May. 

Which is why we have been a little {or a lot} sidetracked. 

I mean between just now getting back on a schedule or routine again, all the daycare adjustments and work training; it's been hectic. Oh and did I mention the sicks? In July we were sick. All of us, for a while. I think we are finally back on track though. 

Which is difficult considering that for a while now I have not been one to follow strict schedules and routines simply because the organized chaos works best for us. I know that children need some structure and believe me we have structure, we just don't like to get stuck in the same routine or schedule everyday...I think it's my un-diagnosed ADHD. I can't sit still and I can't do the same thing over and over. I have tried. And, really I have been there and done that, and for some reason since I had the kids the less scheduling the better and things just seem to fall into place for us. Not saying we don't plan anything because we do but we just don't plan everything. 

What was I saying? You see sidetracked. 

It happens that quick. But, August will be my month to regain some control, some structure and some scheduling. I am exited, and happy. Cause, have I told you? I have a big announcement tomorrow. I can't wait! Agh! 

HOPE  YOU WILL JOIN ME, OH AND TELL YOUR AMIGAS {&AMIGOS} ABOUT IT. It's going to be fun! And, if you don't follow us PLEASE DO:

::FACEBOOK MOMMA::

::TWITTER MOMMA::

::PINTREST MOMMA::

Borrón y Cuenta Nueva!

You know what my favorite part about life is? Our human ability to recreate it.

The ability to start over. Clear out the past and move on. I know that I have had many chances to start over and why not start over in my 30's. I turned 32 last month and you know what? It's time to start over. The beauty of 2nd, 3rd and 4th chances is they are all yours!



The other day I finally got my copy of Start by Jon Acuff and ironically enough I have not started but just the cover alone has inspired so many new feelings!

So, today. I start over. And, since I am a person of exact circumstances and timing, I will start my book when I feel it's right.

The energy is almost in that place where the ruts and blah-ness are gone and you just can't live in that cloud anymore. For me it was this week and more so today!

What about you? Today is Friday, July 19th, will you hit the START button and start over?

{Ford Summer Spectacular} #FordEspanol

{Momma Disclosure: This is not a compensated post. Informational post only.}

There is no doubt that Summer is known for it's "Blockbuster" films and the Ford Motor Company has created a series which portrays these epic Summer films but with a twist. The star line-up is none other than the motor companies very own, vehicles.  The creativity of this series definitely caught my attention. When I first saw one of the commercials on T.V., it honestly kept me glued to the screen waiting to see what movie it was. When I realized it was a Ford commercial I thought, how clever. 

The Ford Summer Spectacular was previewed at the Miami Beach Cinemateque. The premiere attendees; composed of Ford representatives and other members of the media were given the red-carpet treatment and were even interviewed by top celebrity and lifestyle Bloggers. They enjoyed a private screening and a unique behind the scenes glimpse of the filming of Ford's newest advertising campaign. Their  "blockbuster movie-like commercials" where filmed in Los Angeles and it's surrounding areas. 

The short films where directed by Kyle Cooper, who is a member of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Science. Cooper was also recognized as one of the top 50 "Biggest and Best thinkers" from the last 20 years of advertising and consumer culture by Creativity Magazine. 

Not only is the Summer Spectacular directed by well known talent the films also showcase a Hispanic International actor and host, Cristián de la Fuente. Cristian has been chosen as one of People magazine’s “50 Most Beautiful,” TV Guide’s sexiest man and twice named Cosmo’s Man of the Year. The former Dancing with the Stars performer appears in two of the Spanish language campaigns commercials.

The unique campaign runs from now through September 3rd. My favorite has been the recreation of Twilight, especially in Spanish. Which clip is your favorite?

My #CascadePlatinum #sponsored

{Momma Disclosure: I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Cascade. I received a product sample to facilitate my review and a promotional item as a thank you for participating.}

One of the least favorite chores in our home is washing dishes. We are always trying to figure out shortcuts or something that will work better and faster than the last time. Which is why when we received the new Cascade Platinum Pacs I was excited. I will admit, I wasn't sure that such tiny pacs would get the job done.

I was pleased to see all of my dishes looking clean and shiny after the  first time using it. I also didn't have to deal with the residue that regular dish detergents leave behind. 

Usually we have to rinse very dirty dishes with soap and water before putting them in the dishwasher. With the Cascade Platinum Pacs, I rinsed all my dishes once with warm water only and then put them in the dishwasher. The results were great. I definitely recommend the Cascade Platinum Pacs for your daily dish washing routine.

The Cascade Platinum Pacs definitely deliver the most powerful cleaning action due to their advanced triple action recipe. I immediately noticed the new spot-free sparkle that my old dishes gained. The pacs are affordable and lasted twice as long as our powdered detergent usually does. 

I can't wait to try some of the other scents and products such as:
{Product information provided by Mom Central Consulting}
• Cascade© Complete© Pacs
• Cascade © ActionPacs™ with Dawn® Grease Fighting Power
• Cascade© with the scent of Gain® ActionPacs™
• Cascade © ActionPacs™ Destinations: Mediterranean Lavender and Thai Dragon Fruit scents

For great tips on dish washing and the importance of presentation during your meal time visit the Gail Simmons by Cascade YouTube Channel:

Please be sure to visit the Cascade website and Facebook page for special promotions and offers:

• Cascade Website: http://bit.ly/16Te3N5
• Cascade Facebook page:http://on.fb.me/10Y8RQQ
• #MyPlatinum Instagram:http://tinyurl.com/PlatBlog