::38 Birthday Wishes::

Every year I try to do something on social media or my blog for my birthday month.... this month, this year, this life have been hectic... but I wrote out a list of 38 birthday wishes.....

For my 38th year of life, I wish the following...

1. "Blessings for the best, most in alignment year of life to date." (SO MUCH YES!)
2. I wish to pick up my Bible more times this year than ever before. 
3. I wish for my children to be safe, protected, and healthy. 
4. I wish to be more organized and present as a human being. 
5. I wish to be a more attentive and responsive as a woman to myself. 
6. To continue to surround myself with women, and people who are in similar seasons and have similar goals.  
7. To be a blessing to others. 
8.  I wish to grow more this new year of life- Emotionally, Spiritually, Mentally and in Strength.
9. I am wishing for a new renewed sense of self and self-awareness so that I can continuously admit to my mistakes and correct my actions. 
10. To learn a new skill that will allow me to grow professionally. 
11. To receive and accept all the new blessings coming in my life. 
12. To live abundantly in all the things that I need to survive, especially in love. 
13. I want to wish for further peace; inner and around me. 
14. I wish to pick-up new mediation habits. 
15. I wish to be ever present for those people who truly need me. 
16. To be happy and smile no matter what comes my way. 
17. To bring peace and joy to others. 
18. I wish to be strong and uplifting in the hard times. 
19. I wish to stop complaining about the things, I know I can't change, and take more action. 
20. I wish for a very healthy year. 
21. I wish to bring out the best in others and allow them to fulfill their fullest potential! 
22. To travel more. 
23. To truly and purposefully rest. 
24. To finish reading all the books I've started. 
25. I wish to start doing yoga again and try hot yoga. 
26. I wish to further recognize the people who have truly made a difference in my life. 
27. To continue to eat better and take care of ME. 
28. To take more times out of my day to breathe and reflect and truly be thankful for where I am. 
29. To advance in my career and be at peace with my career choices and path. 
30. I want to set bigger goals and new action items for myself. (Can you say America Ninja Warrior, MAYBE.) 
31. I wish to continue to reach my goals and dream BIGGER every day. 
32. I wish to build a strong community around me who are growing and successful so that I can grow and succeed with them. 
33. I wish to do more volunteer work this year. 
34. I wish to spend more time with friends. Especially friends who I have not seen in a while. 
35. I wish to be better at managing my money. 
36. I wish to turn my passion into my biggest asset. 
37. I wish to find myself and happiness at the same intersection. 
38. I wish to re-create who I am and thrive..... 
    

This is 38 ya'll! 

Connie 2.0 Experience

Brene Brown talks about the power of vulnerability. Being your most authentic self by recognizing connectivity and how shame can truly shape us. I want to talk about the power in "silence and timing". No one ever tells you how much shame and guilt is felt when you make the choice to walk away from someone. You are the one making the choice why is it still so hard and complicated? Well, first of all, another human being is involved. Feelings, time spent together, doubts about making the right choices. In my case, two littles. :: insert months of silence and waiting for the right time::

How often do we get a redo at life? How often do we get to start over and do things differently? To reinvent you? To revolutionize yourself and give yourself an upgrade to a new self?? Not often. Sometimes the potential loss is a great opportunity. A couple months ago, in April actually, I felt this kind of deep sentiment of "a redo at life".

I attended Mom 2.0 in Austin for the first time. I will admit. It’s been a while since I’ve been to a conference and really felt anything like this. A rebirth if you will. One of the presenters said "We didn’t get here by aiming low." And in my mind, all I could think is we didn’t get here by coincidence either. We were all in the exact moment we were meant to be at.

A few days before the conference I wasn’t sure I’d make it. Did I have the money to go? Was my mind in the right place? Why was I going? Did I really need to go? Without answers to any of those questions, I left Houston. I started my road trip by telling myself that I should go to Austin and enjoy my time away, regardless of how I felt. Something good must come of it I thought. And, that it did.

Feeling emotionally drained and exhausted I arrived a Wednesday afternoon connected with my roommate. An amazing Latina from Florida. And, tried to shift my mindset.

That night we headed out to our first event of the week and immediately my social sensors tingled. I was home. This is my place ya’ll. Not Austin. Not this conference. But this space, a place where women connect or reconnect, a space where we were all once strangers but thanks to the WWW we are now connected, a space where you can’t hide behind the keyboard and our insecurities cause guess what we are here IN REAL LIFE (IRL) y como dicen, a todo color.

The first set of encounters on that first night changed my mood and brightened my outlook.

I had a full itinerary for Thursday but again I wasn’t expecting much. Just being honest. Sometimes this is how I feel. Good but eh, we’ll see....

Thursday at the conference did not disappoint....It included a beautiful and serene breakfast sponsored by Dove where moms shared their birth stories good and bad. It was uplifting and a reminder that I’m not alone on this Mommahood journey.... or the Womanhood, Relationship journey. 

I went on to attend a diversity and inclusion panel which happened to have been moderated and lead by a Houston mom! It immediately reminded me why empowering Houston Latina women has become my passion. We’ve filled a gap in a niche that we didn’t even know how or if we could and would fill but now exist in all ways and forms. I’m proud of us and what we’ve accomplished in truly such a short time.

Then there was Brene Brown. :: insert the heavens opening up and angels singing here :: 

The words that came to mind as I took notes that afternoon at her talk were:

Magic
Sincere
Strong
Intelligent
Honest
Authentic

Real
Raw

Texan

Female

Voice

Power

Connection

Relateable 

She answered questions about how she got where she is today, you know the "breakdown", I mean spiritual awakening, how she felt about it all, that infamous Youtube video, her new documentary and how she walked away from working with Bo-prah. She reinforced my feelings of wanting to one day speak at TEDTalks and how she placed it in the Universe which I have done...just now....  

She reminded us to "stay focused and you will get there." It's hard sometimes to think of the amount of time you have to invest in your goals to accomplish them. But, you must stay on your path... She reminded us that NO is important, because "every time you say yes to something, you are saying no to something you don't know exist yet."  And, that the measure of how well you are doing is how many people you are pissing off. 

She's such a powerful thought leader making a great social impact as a  researcher-storyteller, or you know magic pixie! 

This trip was definitely a good one and I obviously came back very inspired by it. 

::Powerful Women::

To be a powerful woman. A powerful Latina woman. What does that mean? What does that encompass? How did your strength grow? How do you become this woman? Oh, the questions are endless that I ask myself all the time, especially these days. What does that mean Connie? 

....you've labeled yourself a Powerful Latina?

When you give yourself a label, you kind of have to live up to it right? Right? You have to own it. You have to embrace it and be confident in your walk. 

For so many years I had no clue who I was, who I was becoming and who was being created inside of me. I didn't know of my sense of self and "power". I didn't know the depth of my heart and soul. The power that was being built. The confidence, and how intimidating it can be. I know many, many powerful women. I am surrounded by them daily. Most I am not intimidated by but I have great respect and admiration for them, I aspire to be more like them. 

These days I know that...I am an intense person. I am a passionate person. I don't like the word no, I keep going once I've heard it. I know what I want and who I want in my life. I try to be assertive and make decision head-on. It has not come easy, my upbringing was hard. I didn't have the most smooth teenage years. I dealt with helping my parents with my three younger siblings, working many hours Senior year in High school to help pay for my graduation and enduring my parent's relationship issues. It wasn't until my early 20's that those things started to catch up with me.

Depression would loom but I tried to be the happy, go-lucky, goodie-goodie 20-something year old that everyone had known for years. Little did I know that at 37 those things would all catch up to me. 

Both in a good and bad way. We cannot hide or run from those inner-"demons", we must confront them, beat them and overcome. 

While I knew exactly what I had survived and how I made the absolute best of it all, I didn't realize how much growth and strength had also happened. I also went through this 19-year relationship (7 years of dating and 12 of marriage) which taught me SO much about my own drive, capabilities and again that strength that we all need to overcome struggles and obstacles.

I realize now how much I push others to reach their potential. How much I push myself to strive for bigger and better. It's draining and a lot of work. But, I did it, continue to and truly have no desire to change it. I want to be the best version of me that I can possibly be EVERY SINGLE DAY. Is that wrong? I don't know. But, I am also an idealist and dreamer, I see SO much potential in others, and expect them to have the same self-drive, motivation and passion that I have for myself. Is that wrong? I don't think so. 

I didn't know being "powerful" came with a price. I didn't realize that I was outgrowing my partner and that I was no longer that 18-year-old girl who thought changing the world and making an impact was, in fact, possible but had NO clue what it meant or how or where to even begin. The impact has come in the form of living my journey and constantly sharing who I am. In the most real and raw form. 

Unfiltered and direct. 

The evolution of who we want to become sneaks up on us and is more clear sometimes to the outside world than ourselves. It's just a matter of gathering clarity and truly running with who you have become. 

By no means does this mean my life is perfect, especially not now, it's not. I still navigate through many feelings and problems daily. I just don't know how to give up, ever. And, won't.

:: Weekend Snapshots:: Link-Up with 3twentysix

Beautiful weekends are usually very productive for us, this weekend was no exception. My kids started little league last week, so now we have a full week of practice every week for about 3 months. Sharing with you today a little of how productive our Saturday was, and linking up with @3twentysix. 

Typically I wake up early on Saturday. I don't mind it because it gives me an extra 30 to 45 minutes before the kids wake up to get some things accomplished until the chaos hits again.  This Saturday I woke up, finished doing the dishes, started a washer and dryer load of laundry, and cleaned up the living room. Then the kids woke up, showered, we went to buy kolaches and headed to the ballpark all before 10 am. 

We didn't stop there. Ricardo's Aunt is a hairdresser and obviously, we trust her with our hair, especially Camila's. She has had a run-in with at home self-haircuts, more than once.  I was letting her hair grow out but she wanted to cut it before her 5th birthday this month. The cut was short and an instant mega Diva was created. She was only a super Diva before Saturday. Brother got a haircut too and couldn't miss out on the diva action.  Not only did Cam get a new look, she also got new shoes, you know to complete the Diva feeling. 

After haircuts, my Husband wanted us to go see the Ostrich and Camel races at the Sam Houston Race Park if you have not been to the race track I recommend it. Very family friendly, good food, great fun and adult drinks -lots of adult drinks. We had fun, the kids always enjoy the races, until their favorites lose. Camila doesn't take losing to lightly. We don't like to lose. 

Santiago was uber excited because this weekend they had food trucks, him and I binged watched the Great Food truck race one weekend and when we arrived he was thrilled! He said "MOM, this is a challenge!!! A food truck challenge!!" And, it was, we couldn't decide what to eat, the kids went with pizza and my Hubby got us a Brazilian sandwich and fries from the Churrasco Truck. Everything was good! And, don't forget the adult drinks, Margaritas for sure!  

I even got the cutest ostriches for the kids! It was a good Saturday for us all. Filled with lots of fun, some tears, and minimal tantrums- for the parents that is!   

We also stayed busy on Sunday when we attended a family birthday party, visited my in-laws and ate some crawfish at our new favorite local restaurant, Crawfish N'More.  Phew! 

What did you do this weekend??

::A 2015 Vision::

I think people read my blog, view my social media updates and can maybe forget that I have an 8-5 PM job which is NOT social media, marketing or PR related. A job that I have honestly worked hard to obtain and maintain. I received a college degree in 2005 and 10 years later I still don't feel like I have put my degree to good use despite becoming an Assistant Supervisor in one of the busiest Elections departments in the US. I assisted in running the 3rd largest county in the U.S. That among many other accomplishments in my career. A career that for 3 months after each pregnancy and 7 months in 2012-2013 I put on hold for my family. A career that I don't mind having, that I enjoy and love. I love being a working Momma. Not many can tell you that. I love my family and children as well. With each job comes a new level of work life balance. But, that doesn't mean that I don't like to grow, learn and achieve. 

I rarely speak about my 8-5pm, and it took 4 years for me to discuss the fact that I worked for Harris County Elections here on my blog. This will probably be the only post "directly" about my job in hopefully the next 5 years or so. 

Here is why. In January after several conversation with a good friend, speaking to a life coach and spending the previous 30 days doing a 30 days of Affirmation challenge; I decided changes needed to be made. I also put some real thought into what I needed to do for my family and myself.  Making the decision that this year, I needed to step it up and move on to the next level. Because I know I can. 

I came into work on the first day of 2015, cleared my current cubicle and decided that I would not be in this desk past March or April. I gave myself a clear vision of leaving that cubicle and then worked hard every day towards making my job a good, happy, healthy environment for myself. I decided that if I had worked hard in the last year and a half I would work harder in the next 4 months. Working towards a new position, either in my current company or else where. 

While this blog and my writing and social media communities are my passion, I love having this "double-life". I might complain that I am exhausted and never have much time for anything but I truly thrive from it. 

So the vision. I pray. A lot. Daily. With my kids, alone, at my desk, in my car... I asked for God to provide a new place for me where I can further grow, explore new opportunities and have the same or better level of flexibility that I have now. Have I obtained that? Well. 3 weeks ago a co-worker announced her very unforeseen resignation. A week later, I thought, I should apply for this job. The same week I inquired with my boss, the other departments managers, and applied to HR. The following Monday I received an interview and yesterday. I started my new job. Same company, different department. I envisioned it in January. Set my mind to it and then did those things needed to succeed and of course seized the perfect opportunity. 

Why am I sharing this? The mindset, the intent, the prayers. Good karma. Wishing others well. Are all a very powerful thing. I don't know what you believe in. But, I  do know that having a good positive outlook as well as seeking spiritual peace and acceptance can take you places. I know that having goodwill for others and not being jealous of their journey but instead seeking your own, will have good "karma like" results. I am constantly motivated by female CEO's, by Women Bloggers, by good all-around hard working sacrificing people. I seek to be motivated and create my own journey and story. Will I one day be a CEO who blogs? Maybe or maybe not but either way; it's my vision and my journey that really matters.

Learning to create opportunities based on your given talents, your learned skills and the purpose that drives us all, is what my vision is about.

What do I see for 2015? Good things. Better surroundings. And, as Walter Mercado would say...mucho, mucho Amor!

Let me also add to my vision a Husband, who constantly pushes me to do more and be my best because he knows that as young Hispanic parents we can do so much more! That paired with two little children who are always so patient and look up to me and my every move. I am inspired and motivated most by them. My vision for 2015 is not complete yet. But, I feel satisfied so far.

One of my other goals was to seek more local blogging opportunities. Because of this new job, I will probably be forced to seek more local events and blogging opportunities. Something I feel is really needed for local Latino Bloggers.

::My Electronic Vision Board with lots of good resources:: 

         Follow Connie's board ::Vision Board 2015:: on Pinterest.  

Now you tell me, it's almost April... what is your 2015 vision and how will you create your positive happy space?

::Picture Me Saturday:: Christmas Edition

This week was my son and daughter's Christmas Program at school. We had so much fun! My son was Joseph and we are always so proud of how he is not shy and owns his part. He remembers his lines and the teachers always love his personality and attitude towards it all. My daughter danced with her ballet class but I only took video which I want to learn editing for before I post them. 

Sharing a few of our pictures from that day... 

::Queridos Hijos:: #LessonsLearned

::Dear Children:: 

If you’re a Momma or are around children then you know that moment in the movie “The Croods” were Grug decides to throw his family over the cliff into the light knowing that he would disappear into the darkness. It’s an intense moment; as a parent making life changing and difficult decisions that may or may not ultimately benefit your family as a whole, is a challenge.

It’s what we do though and sometimes we have to make these difficult decisions even if our family members don’t understand why. In the end we know they are necessary for us to move forward to evolve and grow! As a Momma I make these decisions daily maybe right now, not as difficult as those made by Grug but I make decisions none-the-less. The decisions are sometimes filled with fears and doubt of what the outcome may be but they are always made with the best intentions at heart.  

I know that one day as my children you will probably “hate me” for not allowing you to go out and do some random activity with your friends  but trust me “es por tu bien”. And, I pray that when you achieve and accomplish you will be able to see the light and understand why as parents we make the choices that we make.

I love you so intensely everyday more and more!

Love, 

Momma

Picture Credit; Obtained from http://www.fanpop.com/

::Wordless Wednesday:: #mommaofdos

These Dos.... 

{Easter 2014} 

Mis amores... 

{Friday Letters} Week Dos ♥

{I made my own Friday Letters Icon!}

Dear Week,
Where the heck did you go?? No really it was Monday yesterday and today everyones all "the world is ending!" Dude, what'd you do to us?!
Haha.
See ya'maybe....

Dear Friday Letter,
I wrote you down  on paper, even if Ariana laughs at me, reason being.... my kids were on the computer and I needed to write my letters! And, guess what?? Week 2 of remembering to write you so, yay me! 
See ya soon!

Dear Hubby,
You went out last night. I don't say this much but you deserve a break from Major Crazy and her 2 Cadets Chaos and Mini-Drama. And, I don't say this enough, THANK YOU because you not only work hard every day to provide for us but you do it with love and without complaint. I love you. Also, Thank you for letting me have my own mini-break this week and letting me have dinner with my Momma friends as well.
Te amo.

Dear YouTube,
Some days you're a life saver, others your a bad choice of unrelated clips with little description as to what the next 10 minutes will entail or end in! Must remind myself to give you different settings....because my kids are learning to use this computer and yea, it's kinda crazy what they can get into... i.e. going from Angry Bird cartoons to 2 girls dancing "hit me baby one time"?? Wow. Never again. At least it was PG and you got Santi's attention for a whole 5 minutes...

Dear Santi,
This week you did an amazing job at yet another school program performance. This time we all were there to witness it; Your Daddy, Cami, Gran-Ma Chelo, Tio David and good friend Elizabeth. We all sat in the audience watching you with joy, cheering you on, your biggest fan like always...Cami...she loved seeing you sing and jingle those bells with all your might. You are amazing. We love you and I think you are a star in the making or at least a really cute boy who comes out in school programs!! After it was all said and done, you cried because we all had to leave and you stayed behind..but I didn't want you to miss your first school Christmas party! 
We love you my beautiful little man more than words can describe,
Yo Momma 

Dear Cami,
This week you made us laugh as you farted on command, you made us all sit on the edge of seats as you walked on the edge of yours, and you made me sad because you were sick.{Fever and vomit.} Through it all you have no fear. You are strong and your are silly just like your Daddy cause everyone knows Momma's don't fart. I pray that God gives you never ending fearless strength and health. That God protects your silly heart so that you can be a woman of marvelous faith and live a joyous life!
We love you my sweet baby more than words can describe,
Yo  Momma

Dear God,
Today marks a week since the most horrible incident in Newton, CT. I pray that you bring comfort and peace to all the aching Momma and Daddy hearts and to all those families mourning the loss of an Angel in their lives. May your love heal their pain and restore their faith in humanity and in sense of security, because I know mine has been shattered and only prayer can bring it back. In Jesus Name.
Amen.