::Building Your Blog Tribe:: Do's & Don'ts

{All pictures are from my Momma of Dos, blogging 101 class last week... #BlogVisionTribe}

I've been blogging for nine years, like before it was "in" to blog, I blogged. It's a story I often tell in my Blogging 101 workshop. In 2008, I went from writing blogs on Myspace to Wordpress. Then in 2009, I moved over to the Blogger platform. Momma of Dos has been around for some time. And it always surprises me to think back and look at how far I have come.  Some of the only reasons I have made it this far are due to the guidance and friendships that I made early on in my blogging career.

By 2014, my blogging journey took on a life of its own called the Houston Latina Bloggers {HLB}. It was important to me to start building a tribe and create a space where I could turn around and help new bloggers. My goal was to provide all the resources that weren’t available in the blogging space years ago and pass on the knowledge that I had gained. Co-founding HLB was a labor of love and continues to be. The women who helped me shaped the group into what it is today have played an integral part of the blogging resources HLB is now able to offer its members. HLB could not have grown and succeeded without the women who supported my efforts, offered their guidance, and worked hard alongside me to get the group up and going. In 2015, we kicked off an active group and created our own #LATINATRIBE. 

The group continues to grow and evolve; and after nearly two years of work, our vision is beginning to take shape. It has taken consistent work, dedication, and time. As the group grows, our process takes on new shapes and dynamics. New bloggers have new and innovative ideas which have brought HLB to the forefront of the blogging community. And through all the sacrifice and difficulties, the rewards have been worth it. 

In return, I have learned a lot. These days I share my experiences with women who attend my Blogging 101 class.

Here are some things I have learned you should and shouldn't do!

Do-

1) Provide Support & Guidance.

Sharing contacts, advice and giving likes and comments on social media may all seem like common courtesy for a tribe who is also doing the same for you. Right? Well, even if you don't receive the same amount of support, you show your support anyway. Why? Because at the end of the day you want to do all you can to help and know that you did your best.  It's probably one of our biggest rules in the group. It’s important. VERY.

You cannot be a taker and not give back. Or not give because you fear others will take too much. It's life. Things aren't fair. I tend to overshare but that's just me. You have to when you have years of knowledge. I must. I was once a new blogger and had no clue what to do. If it weren't for ladies like Alba of Independent Mami who ALWAYS offers great resources and is just a giving person, I would not have made it in the blogging world.

Which at the end of the day is just as cut-throat as any other business. **So don't be fooled. It is a serious income-providing business for many. Competition is bound to happen.  You just have to know when to give in.  

2) Build a personal relationship with those in your tribe.

You cannot be in-it to win-it if you don't have close personal friends in your tribe. Just like in life, you need the love and true friendship of like-minded women, mommas, writers, creatives and entrepreneurs who can have your back. The only way to know who does is by truly learning about the women in your tribe-who they are, their families and what drives them. This way you can form a true lasting connection or partnership with them.

3) Trust.

There are some levels of trust that need to be had when dealing with new people. I understand we all have different life experiences and our ability to trust is not as easy to some as it is to others. I trust too much, too fast, sometimes. I trust based on feeling or vibe. With that said, some people just click, or connect instantly and others may not. All is good though, some instant connections might not be long-lasting and some that take longer to connect, sometimes result in some of the best friendships or working relationships. I think it's like this with life in general.

4) Give Credit where credit is due.

You didn't do this on your own; if you did, kudos but, more than likely you didn't do this on your own. Had I not met certain bloggers early on, I probably would not have made it. The set of bloggers that I met in 2012 at my first LATISM conference were pivotal. I will be forever grateful for the role they have played in my journey. It is important to me to credit and give shout-outs especially to those content creators who share this space with me.

5) Be nice.

It's common courtesy, right? Being nice to people, although we won't always agree or connect with everyone but being respectful of others, their ideas and their content is just common sense. You don't want to burn bridges at any point that might be helpful or a resource just because you don't agree with others. I am not saying don't voice your opinion or be yourself.

Simply treat others how you would like to be treated. TRUST me, I know it’s easier said than done. I am not perfect. I've rolled my eyes when people start talking when I have strong conflicting feelings. You don't have to get along with everyone in the blogosphere. That's normal. With that said, just be a nice person and continuously courteous, simple rule.

And, in no way am I saying to be fake. If you do not agree with a group or how they think and you don't think you ever will, well then remove yourself from that situation. It's very easy.  Much like in life, if it doesn’t grow you, let it go.

Don't-

1) Make Assumptions.

Communicate. Communication is highly important with online relationships. I would say if you don't understand something, or feel like something needs to be cleared up, Speak up. I'm one who can personally say that because I shut down, I have lost friendships over miscommunication. So, if you have to call or meet in person to clear the air and talk things out, do it! Don't assume that a certain tone or emotion is attached to words. Talk it out and know if your feelings are being validated. Again, if the situation at the end of the day is not what you expected, you have every right to walk away. but give it a chance. I would suggest talking, listening, and communicating.

Again, if things are not clear, talk about it, with time and patience.

2) Be overly-guarded of your space.

I get it. We all have insecurities and or a certain space that we like to protect. But in this business, if you don't share and put yourself out there, well then you won't grow. Most bloggers live and dream to have exposure, to be well known, I know I do! That won't happen if you are always in your own guarded and secret space. Some of us are super shy. Again, that's life, you can't grow if you keep to yourself and never share. You must let go of that guarded space and be yourself, people will love your open and honest content.

3) Use People.

Of course, we all know this right. I know a lot of bloggers in different groups complain about people who only come into their lives for a connection or contact. And, I get it, it's not right. I think that as long as you give credit and are respectful toward one another, sharing contacts and connections is acceptable.

In HLB, we want all the bloggers to grow so sharing is encouraged and applauded. I may not know all the ladies personally but we are part of the same community and at the end of the day I want them to grow. Their success is HLB’s success.

You don't want to be known as the person who never shares other bloggers’ posts, or likes, or comments but comes to the party when opportunities are being shared. It looks bad and although HLB doesn’t have a set rule on this, we do encounter these situations sometimes. People get upset and don’t want to share if they feel used. So show your tribe some love.

4) Be jealous- there’s enough to go around for everyone.

It's a natural thing to be jealous or have a feeling of being left out of something if you share too much. Don't be. I know it might not seem like it but trust that there is enough work for everyone. We are all content creators but our styles, perspective and experiences are vastly different. Don't worry about there not being enough opportunities. I've learned that the more you stay in your lane and do your own thing, the more opportunities will come your way.

Just trust me on this one. There is always enough. Don't worry about everyone else and what they are doing. Focus on you and you will not have time to look around and be jealous. No need. No time.

5) Be fake.

That's all. Don't. Be yourself. People can see straight through you if you're fake. Plus, the things that aren't true and perfect about you will come out when people see you in person and realize that your online life is just a front. You don't want to ruin your brand like that. We are human not perfect or picture ready 24/7. So be real guys.

SPONSORS FOR MY BLOGGING 101 CLASS HELD ON WEDNESDAY AUGUST 9TH:

Location: ONLY LOVE REMAINS by ISABEL SHAW

SWEET TREATS: Madre T Sweets by Maria Tolentino 

{Houston Area Women's Center} #stoptheviolence

Many may not know this about me but I have witnessed violence in the home first hand. {I don't plan on giving out details, when it happened I told many people in hopes that it would ease the pain, I went to church, I spoke to my Boyfriend-He is now my Husband, I wrote about it, I cried about it, I thought about dying at my own hands over it. It was not the best time in my life but I also don't want to harm those whom I love with details or remembering what was. I lived through it. I survived and so did she.}

I was going to post about this regardless but with what happened on Friday I decided to make it a mini-series on my Blog. #stoptheviolence

Domestic Violence of any form is a difficult and tramautizing experience. Trust me. I have been there. In the dark with the thought of, what if I just stop breathing, it will stop the pain. After years of it and fed up, I was grown and after feeling powerless at one point in my life, I had suddenly gained strenght, wisdom, age and courage. Courgae that was built after years of horrifiying stories, first hand accounts, and one call to the HAWC. I stood in a room, with the adrelanie rush and telling my story of intervention, prevention and attempting to save a life. I then found myself in a waiting room on Montrose. Could this be real? ME. I was living this. With a loved one. So much pain. So many terrify events. The emotional. The physical. The abuse on so many levels. The pain on a level I never knew I could reach.

After days, weeks and months of healing...now years... the pain, empowerment. The memories, my strength and my courage. I will never, NEVER allow this to happen to a loved one EVER. Again.

Which is why I am here now. Telling you that if you are suffering ANY kind of abuse you too can overcome, survive and heal.

3 weeks ago I was invited to attend the taping of Great Day Houston. I sat in the audience and a first hand account of what live TV is like. It was exciting and an awesome opportunity. But, I wasn't sure if anyone else was there for the same reason that I was. I had survived violence in the home. I was there to assist in representing the Houston Area Women's Center, we wore red. The color of pain and hope when you live through and survive what I have see, heard and lived. I felt honored. Humbled. And, an amazingly overwhelming feeling to have been able to put YEARS of violence behind me. Years of silence in the open. It's a freeing sitiuation.










I am here today to ask you to donate and help in any way possible for an extremenly good cause. One that saved my life and that of my loved ones. One that has restored my faith in life, love and marriage.

I thank the Houston Area Women's Center for one day holding our hand and giving us hope.

I thank Frida for the opportunity and allowing me to be a part of something so great and simple as to sit and represent a cause and for a place that one day harvested safety and new hope for those of us who have lost it.

Go to the following links to help the HAWC::HERE:: and ::HERE::
Go to the following link to learn more about Frida ::HERE::

If you need help getting out of a violent situation and are scared to move forward know that the person hurting you will never hurt you if you stop giving them the power to do so. ::CLICK HERE FOR HELP::

Prayers for those in pain.

Momma Disclosure: This is not a compensated OR sponsored post. This is however a subject that is very near and dear to my heart which is why I chose to share it.  The above statements are both true and actual experiences.

Beliefs and Curanderas..... #maldeojo

{Disclaimer: Yes, I am Catholic. While I am Catholic I don't have a limited or closed minded view about religion, faith and seeking God in your own manner and beliefs. I would NEVER attempt to make others think, believe or pray the way I do. So, please be kind with your thoughts and words. I believe in Jesus, the Father and the Holy Spirit as well as the, the Virgin Mary & the Virgen de Guadalupe and all the Saints.}

I am not usually a "disclaimer" type of person. I am who I am, my faith is my own and I really don't believe in making others convert or thinking like me ever. We are all entitled to our own feelings, thoughts and beliefs.





With that said.

The other day I caught myself trying to "sweep" my son with an egg, you know how the Curanderas do or in my case my Momma does. My Son was not in the mood for anything and he had maybe the worse freak out moment while I was attempting to bathe him. I asked him if he was OK, I checked him to see if he was hurt and moments after the episode and without knowing what to think I started to pray with fervor over my son.

I usually pray with or over my children before bed or in the morning but this day, it was a different kind of prayer and I had no idea how or what but I felt like I needed to take action. Trust me it wasn't anything medical because I know my son and he was fine. Had I felt that he had to go to the Hospital I would have taken him. I am a fairly new Momma but I know my children well and I tend to trust my instincts pretty well.

I then thought of finding him an amuleto, in particular the ojo de venado bracelet to protect him from el mal de ojo and  evil spirits. Was I going over board or just being a Momma and thinking of everything I can do for my child? I don't know but he has not had an episode since and I have been lighting my candles and praying over my home every night. It brings me peace. As prayer usually does.

My Momma usually likes to bathe them and then pray over them with the egg...it gives her peace of mind... I don't mind it and as long as what we do is pray...I never see anything wrong with it. Am I weird? Maybe. Am I Mexican? For sure.

How about you? Your Momma or Abuelita ever try to do any special ritual for you or your kids?   

{On Letting Yourself Go...} #embracingwhoiam

First off...Luke Bryan... love.

Yesterday, I wrote about my constant battle with weight and my self-love and confidence.

These days, I stay home. I am usually in jeans, chanclas, or tennis shoes, a t-shirt.... hair pulled back..no make-up and a smile. I love my life. I love my children. I love my Husband. But, some days, I don't feel like dressing up and feeling fabulous BUT I realize the importance of it.

Que,que?

I know who I am and what I look like on a daily basis and I value the importance of self-image and looking good for yourself and for your Hubby. I have some pretty amazing women in my life and as I looked through my Facebook the other day I saw so many beautiful girls and thought...I can be as put together as them...I just have to make the time and the effort. It's important and I realize it now more than ever.

Being at home with kids all day can make me a very grumpy Momma like person. I don't want that for myself..or my family and especially not my children and Hubby. I love them too much so I should show myself some love and not just feel fit and healthy but LOOK fit and healthy.

Trust me it's a constant up and down feeling and it's not always easy for me.

I try.

I will continue to seek that place where I can just be me and be happy but I don't want to settle for anything less than my best. I loved this past weekend. I got to dress up and go out with my Hubby. I felt amazing. I felt great.

The song above just made me ask myself the question...DO I? And, I know I do, I just need to be more consistent with it all!

So many middle aged emotions tugging at my heart this week.... oh the woes of being 31... 32 in June! It's been a ride and I am ready to take it to the next level!

{Embracing Who I am} #weightbattle

Who am I?

I am a 31 year old Momma of Dos. 31. Not 21, not 18. 31. 





When I first met my Husband I was 18, a size 12 and had no children. I have always battled with my weight though. I have been a size 2 at my smallest when I was about 23 or 24....and I have been a size 18 at 9 months pregnant and 200lbs. These days I am at 175. Size 14 or so. My goal these days is NEVER to look, or be "hot". I want to be healthy and comfortable with myself and who I am not my weight or what society thinks I should look like. I want to be happy and feel good.

As a woman it's a difficult situation. The emotional baggage that comes with constant weight battle is deep. The fears and the disappointment take a toll mentally, emotionally, and physically. I give up constantly, the meltdowns and breakouts get real. Then I regain my confidence and strength to move on.

This weekend we had my Husband's Company Christmas Party. I am not scared to admit that there were women there who looked amazing and are probably really great people as well. But, my confidence runs low sometimes and without the constant reassurance that my Husband provides about not only my capability to be and about the way  I look I am not sure I would ever recover... but I have and I do.





I love who I am. But, I am human and insecurities in me do exist. Some days or nights I am not as confident about myself and who I am as I used to be when I was 21 or 18. It takes work. A lot of work. It takes confident boosters and kind words and patience from my Husband's part. It's takes a little prayer and constant brain fight on my part. I am NOT a super young girl anymore but that doesn't mean I don't want to be fit and sexy. It just means that the reasoning and motivation behind my weight lose should be, I think, driven by some pretty well thought out and reasonable motives.

So, today I am proclaiming that my motives to be fit, healthy and yes...sometimes sexy are:

So that I can run and not get tired of running around in the yard with my  kids.
So that I can be healthy and live a long life with my children and Hubby.
So that I can feel happy and comfortable in my own skin.
So that I can love who I am and embrace my body and figure as it is. 
So that I can try on a dress and not feel like I should choke the girl in the dressing room next me who keeps telling her mom how "big" the size 6 dress fits her! {Just sayin'...keepin' it real. Trust me I said a prayer and contained myself!}
So that I can embrace who I am and who I have become.
So that no one else can define what I "should" look like or WHO I should look like.

I am me. I will NEVER look like any other "young hottie", I will always look like me. A grown woman with two amazingly beautiful children and a great guy next to me who supports me no matter how crazy jealous wife {being totally real here} I get on him. I am beyond Blessed and who I am and how I feel should reflect that. Everyday.

{On Relaxing} :)

It's difficult!

I am constantly telling my kids. Relax, deep breath, calm down. Truth is. They can't. They get it from their Momma. {You know you totally turned into a rapper for about a minute there but NO really they do!}

I am the weirdest most non-conformist person I know. I am constantly seeking the next big thing. My next big idea, project or move! Pero porque? Why can't I just relax, deep breath and stay calm! Since I have been at home I have napped a total of 2 times! 2 TIMES IN 2 WEEKS! The reason for me staying home was to rest, relax and enjoy. Instead I am doing, thinking and exciting! Then it happens the dizziness and shakes come back..I am constantly over-whelming myself... I need to learn to relax... so I forced myself to nap during this post and it's been about 4 days since I started it...Ha!

Anyway. On relaxing. I try. It's hard but I get it; we need to calm down and move slowly sometimes... 

I am learning. 

I am praying. 

I promise, I am relaxing....My Hubby is helping me learn that, things don't always have to be perfect or run at a 110 miles per hour.....so we went to the beach 2 weekends ago.. it helped me take it easy... and slow.down... what's to come? I have NO idea. But, I have faith that what ever it is..I will get there...slowly but surely...

 
God is here with me...with us...and my little family....

"Don't worry about tomorrow..God is already there...." {A plaque in my kitchen....} 

I am trying to follow  His way and take His guidance.. but sometimes.... I just can't relax enough to hear Him!  So, for today.... deep breath::calm down:: and relax:: God is taking care of it for you....

Amen?! Yes! Amen. {Click below for reassurance}

::BIBLE GATEWAY::

{Decision Made} Final Feliz

{A few weeks ago while sitting at my desk at work; I lost my breath, saw bright lights flash in my eyes and felt that if I closed my eyes I may never open them again. All I know is that I asked for help. I was taken to the ladies room to lay down and minutes later I asked them to call 9-1-1. I remember breathing deeply, attempting to stay calm someone praying over me and then voices asking questions. I was given oxygen and an IV. Minutes later I was in the ER seemingly OK and able to move about. I sat there in a haze for hours... 5 to be exact. I was told that I had, had a panic attack and was treated for dizziness and fatigue.}

Wow. Me. A panic attack... impossible.

In the days to follow I made a decision that would impact many and that would hopefully help others.

Today that decision is being lived.

As of Friday October 5th I have officially left my Full-time Outside the Home job to become....

A Momma without a job who happens to stay home... Hmmmmm. A Stay-at-Home Momma!!!! Can this be real.... 3 years and 3 weeks later... Trust me I have NO idea what to do with myself. What kind of routine I want to build or even how long I can do this for.... All I know is that I am open to LIFE. To GOD in it. And to what ever new adventure He will bring our way...

Not good that it took a panic attack to keep me home but I am moving on..moving past it and growing stronger from it and because of it. Life will indeed be different but I pray that we can make it through this new chapter in our family's life...

I have so many plans and ideas swirling around in this Momma head of mine. I hope that you will stick around with the crazy woman who writes about being well... a little crazy but a lot dedicated!

My kids are loving it and my house is clean for the first time in weeks..now if I can just convince my Hubby that we can totally afford adding an office to my house... it would be awesome... Ha. I won't push it.

I know this. If you are overwhelmed. Please ask for help. What I have gone through was very real and very scary. I have so many great people in my life but still I think I can do it all on my own and trust me I have God by side the whole time but when it comes to this world, as women, as Momma's, we tend to take on a bit much at times... Me, I am making it through this and life will be back to  normal soon, I hope.

Oh yes, did I mention? I AM A STAY@HOMEMOMMA! {Very Blessed!}

{Mid-Life Crisis} or Not...

I know who I am...

Cheesy beyond repair
Faithful without doubt
A little over confident
Dramatic; Fo'sho'
Talkie and Loved
Impatient
A Momma of Dos and Wife to One
Blessed
Loud and outspoken
Truthful and Bold
An Overthinker {this is getting better with age...}
A true friend
Gosspiy {workin' on it..LOTS!}
Loved
Forgiven
A hopeless romantic
An optimist with a dark side
Emo' at times
 Happy
A fatty girl who loves food {did I say LOVES food...cause I do}
a Dreamer of BIG HUGE dreams!
Someone with a Past {at times very sad}
A survivor at best
a Sharer
A storyteller
a  writer
a creator of crafts
A dancer at heart
giver
caregiver
provider
supporter
A Daughter
A Sister
a mover and shaker....
I make it happen...
no matter how hard it is to stand...I do
I am a defender of those people, places and situations that I think need me
I face reality and stand up for what I believe in.
I voice it all and leave nothing at rest
I am a pusher
I am a critic
I know I can be a nag
 A Believer
Jesus Follwer
Bible Reader

Trust me. 
I know who I am.


I am not sure what all my brain, heart and soul have been going through lately  but I do know that God has been hard at work...for months now... the clouds are clearing though and everything that was murky and dark are now looking bright and clear!
At least I think so....

How can it be that at 31 I still feel...lost? Am I am not where I want to be? Does life have more for me? Maybe I should stop while I am ahead....

But, seriously. If I feel this way at 31, I definitely don't want to feel lost at 41.
I would want to have my life in place by the time I am 40 and my kids are older...
I don't mean perfect.
I just mean, well adjusted and settled....stable and established.
Happy and fulfilled.

I know.
Trust me, I know how Blessed I am.
I have TWO amazing children.
I have an awesome Husband. I have a great family and a good job.
What else do you want Connie?
You can't have the world...I know this.
I don't want to loose myself because I am constantly seeking better....
I simply want life to be LIFE but better... Ha.

No pues no quieres nada!

Yo se que....el que quiere azul celeste que le cueste...
but how much is it ?
Cause I am more than sure that I have paid it in full and then some!
Ha.

Or maybe not but it sure does feel like it....

Officially. Fat.

NO JOKE. 

In May I lost about 8 or 9 pounds and OH.BOY.TRUST.ME. Have I found them!

I know that I say this a lot but tonight as I stuff my face with Ben & Jerry's Chocolate Fudge Brownie and read about Clean Diets and look at pictures of slim beautiful 20-something year olds...I told myself.

"THIS IS IT."

I can't continue down this path of body-self-destruction. It's unhealthy and honestly I feel uncomfortable.

The excuse that I work 12 hours a day, have two toddlers and a ton of clothes to wash; just don't fly anymore around here!

I need to get my Big Momma Booty in shape! Pronto!!
  
Good-bye Chocolate Fudge Brownie. I will catch you on the flip side and when you see me again, which you won't for a really, really long time, I will be looking good! Now take that and double fudge it!

Ok. A bit dramatic. But, you get the point!

I just know I can do it. My prayers have not been where they should be and I am going to take this time to get back on track! Focus has been lost and time is a wasting!!!!!

Join me if you will and let me know what your biggest weight loss GOAL is for the rest of the year!

Share your diets or exercising tips here!

{M.I.A.} on the B.L.O.G

One of my biggest challenges {motivations} for 2012 is fueled by "that" word... you know the one.... the "C" word...

Cha-Cha-CHHHHANGE.

Change requires a lot of different steps {& personal effort}. I think.

First off, you have to realize what it is you want to change {one thing at a time cause it doesn't happen over night and if you put too much on your plate... you will end up overwhelmed. Just sayin'}

Once you know you want to change something you are fully admitting and taking responsibility for that "issue" in your life, that "trouble spot" if you will {these spots sometimes hinder your life in big ways and you don't even know it}.

Moving On.

You then put thought into the change; device a plan...an outline, goals, to-do list in order to accomplish this change. Example: I am fat. {I am. Not being mean just real!} I know I am fat. I accept it. I want to eat better and exercise {definitely has NOT happened BY.THE.WAY.} My plan: I will buy more fruits and veggies and create a whole new eating schedule and meal plans. I will replace all evil with good. {Like drink lots of water instead of Dr. Pepper all day! Just sayin'...} I will in addition make it an absolute point to exercise at least TWICE  a week {cause we don't want to get overwhelmed ::wink wink::}.

So, once I have thought about it and said, "hmmm this is what I will do." I then put my words in action. Make it happen. Do what I said I would do...but then, I am set back..placed right back at step one..thinking..mediating. Deciding that what I am doing is really good for me, that it's what I really want...in all, talking it over with not only yourself but God {and your Bestie, she will have some real insight!}. I know what I want to do, but what will come from it, aside from a killer bod, I mean...health and  inner strength! What will I do to make my change last, how will I keep up with what I have learned and continue to apply it in my everyday life? What does it really mean to me? Who is here for support? {Support and prayer to me is a big part of all my current changes..more so prayer...}

It's this time, this mediation time that requires...well time. Hence the M.I.A. I am finding myself going back to what I said I would do more this year...and yes..I have fallen off the bandwagon a bit but I don't care and I don't want to give up! I insist that change, CHANGE is what God has placed in my heart! Deeply rooted and planted...waiting to be watered and fertilized for TRUE growth that will endure and overcome... any stormy day!

But, no worries... I will overcome and move on... move forward and attempt to keep up...2012 is the YEAR!

I can feel it....

{Falling Off} Means getting back up again....

I was all like "YEAH! I'm gonna do this. This year I will be a Supa'Star Blogger and Blog everyday and post pictures every day!" then I was all like, "Yeah, I got to go back to work, I am super tired and I don't feel like posting today!" {Whoa!}

Ha.

Well, I have fallen off the whole 365 project for about a week or so but you know what, that's OK, there is no "Blogger-Police" who is gonna give me a huge Blogger-Ticket cause I have not been keeping up with my non-New Years Resolution list. If there is, don't tell him/her where I am! Ha.

There is beauty in falling flat on your face. {Yes, I said it. I am Human. I make mistakes but...} There is no affect or effect on others, only on yourself. And, you know what? All you can do is get back up again...literally dust yourself off and keep moving FORWARD. How sad would it be if I fell on my face and remained there? I mean. How heartbreaking for me. How disappointing for me. The best thing about starting a new year is being a new you. I am done with dwelling on things, situations, people, me, everything. I am moving on.

Well after that little heart wrenching moment, let me continue with this.

I have some small projects this week...

• I have Photoshop on my computer. I have never used it. {Now is when you can yell at me.} I need to learn how to use it. So, this week I will do as much research as need be to learn. 

• I am also on a mission to print pictures, book a Birthday session for Cami's {First Birthday portraits!} and get pictures framed. We shall see how that goes! 

• There is LOTS brewing in the Gomez household most of which I wish to keep to myself... {No, I am not pregnant...but we have been talking about Numero TRES a lot, but future...future... } I am just constantly praying for God to give us guidance and peace in all of our choices in 2012. 

• I have started to plan Cami's first birthday and praying about Ricardo's graduation party. Fun. Fun. 

I have gotten, I think, a lot of my chest in the last few weeks..mostly in talking to my Sister and my Hubby.... this weekend with my Sis-in-Law and a few good friends.. I think peace will be achievable in 2012. Finally.

Well Happy Monday to All!

{BLOG-cation!}

This Summer has been busy! More like BU-SYYYYY!

Because well, it has been.... one whirlwind after another....and it's not getting any better...

Here is the story:

Our home consist of....

My Hubby; a Full-time student, trying to finish school ASAP, he will ONLY be 1 class away from graduation after this December, but in the mean time, he is taking FIVE classes, YES FIVE! Oh did I mention he also has to work to partly assist in supporting our home? Well he does. He is an intern and doesn't make much but still goes to work EVERY.SINGLE.DAY. He is very professional and hates missing work! But, did I mention the FIVE classes, well yes that's the Hubby.

Then there is ME. I recently received a promotion at work, YAAAY! I know right!? Only that it was one of those one day to the next kind of a thing where you really just... GO! Don't look back and think about it later...well I am in the thinking stage, NOW. You see for 3 years I prayed almost every day for doors to open and nothing...now 3 years and 2 kiddos later...they open... SO wide, it's been amazing! An answered prayer... so again...I am thinking. My new job keeps me well, BUSY. And, did I mention I have 2 kiddos and a Hubby who works and goes to school FULL-time. Oh yes, and then, there is this place I love to go, it's called Church. For about 2 months now I have been going to the chapel on Friday nights just because and to a Prayer and Worship workshop on Tuesday nights, for Faith. Then there is this LOVELY Blog that I just LOVE, LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE to keep. And well, I have been a bit overwhelmed to say the least...but no worries..I love it all!

{As I look back on my Blog History..I have Blogged almost everyday the last 3 months, uhm, and to that I say, HOW ABOUT A LITTLE  BLOG-CATION!?!?! But, worry and fear quickly sink in and I wonder...what if I lose readers, what if my current readers get tired of waiting....and then God speaks...Connie...todo a su tiempo...and right now..is a time to pause... to wait and to listen! Not for too long but just long enough!}

Then there are the two VERY busy, super active, Momma {& Daddy} Love wanting kiddos...my FINALLY 2 year old son and my beautiful 6 month old daughter! Surely you will miss them but when I come back I will have TONS of new Momma topics to discuss and post about! That will definitely be a part of my Blog-cation! {Need to get all my notes and thoughts in order!}My children are doing amazing...no worries...all love and patience...for that day when their Momma can finally be a Stay-at-Home Momma! I have realized that, that {along with being my own boss}is my true calling but in the mean time I have to help in supporting my family by working an everyday 8 to 5 {or later, HA!} job! One day I pray that my dream of staying at home with my kids will happen! God knows why, and He definitely knows WHEN! All in His timing Connie. All in His timing.

And, don't worry..I usually provide some oldies but goodies!


If you want to know more about the birth of my two children click HERE:HERE:HERE: AND HERE.

If you want to read some Every-day's by Momma click HERE:HERE:HERE:HERE.

And who can forget all of the AMAZING Momma's who most recently taught me SO MUCH MORE ABOUT BEING A MOM, A WOMAN AND FRIEND! FOR THEM CLICK HERE! 

I WILL BE BACK SHORTLY...TRUST ME! 

In the mean time..if you want to reach me...you can email me at: mommaofdos@gmail.com

Thank YOU for being here!!! 

 

Some updated pictures of my Heart! 

 

 

{Jessica M.} ♥

{Momma Love Series}

I am really excited about this post. 

It comes from an old friend from one of my very first jobs...

I worked with Jess at Texas Children's Hospital here in Houston. 

 I never thought I would keep long lasting friendships with such amazing women
but God has been great to me! 

 Jessica is one of those Momma's that continuously inspires me to be not just a momma..

but a MOMMA! 

Might I add, she has the most handsome little boys ever!!

Enjoy!!! 

{Guest Blogger} 

I’m Jessica Meza, a.k.a Momma.  I have two boys.  My oldest son, Gabriel, just became a teenager over the summer.  And my youngest son, Julian, is 7 years old.  I have always been a “working” mother.  I’m not gonna lie, part of me enjoys working outside the home since I’m not the best at keeping house…so I try not to complain too often.  Currently I’m working as a Realtor, and part time as an office assistant at a psychiatrist’s office, and trying to create a new bakery- JJ’s Cupcakery, with my BFF.  Yup, I’m busy!  Amazingly, I still have time to enjoy my crafts: photography, scrapbooking, crocheting, sewing, and reading.

 

The year I turned 23, two wonderful things happened.  First, I became pregnant for the first time.  Second, I gave birth to a sweet and beautiful baby boy.  This first pregnancy was completely unplanned, but I prepared myself through one of my favorite activities, reading.  The pregnancy itself took some getting used to.  My body was being difficult, and didn’t want to keep any food down for several months.  During this time period, I actually lost weight.  Once I was able to eat and keep my food down, my weight stabilized and luckily I had no other problems.  

On July 29th, I woke up about 6 a.m. with what I thought was a stomach ache.  I headed for the bathroom but was unsuccessful.  I returned to bed, only to be awoken by more stomach pain and then I finally realized that I was experiencing contractions.  Later that day I arrived at Memorial Hermann Hospital.  I settled in and received my epidural. Then I waited.  As the afternoon became evening, my contractions became even stronger.  I requested another epidural, but it was too late! The baby was coming and I had to push.  I know the pain was intense since the epidural had mostly worn off.  I struggled with the pain for a while, but finally at 8:13 p.m. Gabriel was born.  

It wasn’t difficult to adjust to my new life as a mother.  Gabriel was an excellent baby.  He had a good temperament and even began sleeping through the night at 4 weeks!  I don’t recall many specific details from that first year, but he was the first grandkid on both sides of the family so he was spoiled with love and many, many toys! 

My second pregnancy was planned and went along just fine.  I only suffered through a little morning sickness in the beginning.  This time I was working and worked until the day before the baby was born.  I left work on Friday, after having contractions for most of the day.  That night at about 11pm I was admitted to the Methodist Hospital.  This time I was feeling strong contractions before I was given the epidural.  My legs were shaking uncontrollably from the pain.  It wasn’t long after I received the epidural that I was in full labor.  This time the medicine was working great and the labor was easy for me.  I felt fully alert and was able to push without any pain.  Julian was born on February 7^th at 7 a.m. and weighed 7 pounds.  

Julian is my “little one”, and I love him, but I don’t recall having all these white hairs before he was born!  It was TWO years before I was able to get a full night’s sleep…I was just exhausted.  And the tantrums!  I had never even thought that I would have a child that would throw such horrifically loud, screaming fits, throwing himself on the floor, crying, throwing up, will this EVER end tantrums.  I’m actually smiling as I remember them, as if I find them funny, but I have the white hairs to prove they were real and not figments of my imagination.  Well at least he grew out of it (mostly).  

I love so many things about my boys.  I love how they are the same and how they are different.  I love watching them have fun, hearing them laugh, and snuggling with them.  I love being their mom.

Contact and Follow Jessica :

https://www.facebook.com/pages/JJs-Cupcakery/124232780970936

{Jazmin ♥} En Español

Momma Love ~En Español~

Esta niña es un encanto!!! 

Me da mucho gusto ser su Amiga. 

Es una verdadera inspiracion. 

Tan joven y talentosa. 

La conosco hace apenas un año. 

Nuestros niños son del mismo mes, del mismo año...y casi casi del mimo dia!! 

Lo que es mas curioso todavia....su papa y mi mama crecieron juntos...en un pueblo pequeño de Mexico... afuera de Cuernavaca Morelos...ese lugar es MI PASION...Temixco!!! 

Tenemos tanto en comun yo y Jaz... y espero le de todo su Amor... 

como ella se los da a todos quienes la conocen! 

Disfruten!!!

{Guest Blogger}

Mi Nombre es Jazmin,

Me gusta decorar, dibujar, escuchar música y pasar tiempo con mi familia.

Soy Mujer, Madre, Hija, Esposa, Ama de Casa y Estudiante de Cinematografía

Mi Blog: Querida… [http://queridamujer.blogspot.com/]

Por ahora solo tengo 1 Niño.

Y como me gusta decirle es Bebo.

Bueno mi historia es tannnnnnn larga, pero la tratare de hacer lo más corta posible. Me case a muy temprana edad [tenía 18 años] con mi marido y bueno en el transcurso de los primero 2 años no me embarazaba. Tuve muchos momentos de lágrimas porque lo único que yo eh querido tanto en mi vida era ser Madre y ser la madre que no tuve, Al ir al Doctor descubrí que tenía (SOP) Síndrome de Ovario Poliquístico y tuve que tener tratamiento de infertilidad para ayudarme a concebir a una hermosa creatura. Me acuerdo antes de tener mi primera cita con el doctor fui a la iglesia a pedirle a Dios y a llevarle un flor a La Virgen De Guadalupe y a ambos pedirle que si para tener a mi Bebe me tenía que dar toda las molestias que pasa una mujer embarazada que me las diera. Porque lo único que quería era ser Madre. 

Esperábamos con tanta ilusión a nuestro Bebe, que decidimos que fuera sorpresa su sexo. Como mi Marido y yo decíamos “Hay muy pocas sorpresas en esta vida”. Y bueno tuve lo que pedí, todo dolor que pudiera existir me dio, pero con gusto y sin tanto reclamo lo afronte. El simple hecho de saber que mi Marido y yo creamos un ser y yo con amor lo estaba ayudando desarrollarse ha sido el regalo más bonito que Dios me ha dado. Cada dolor de espalda, vomito, nausea que pasaba por lo menos yo se las agradecía a Dios. No me asustaba en lo más mínimo con cada cosa diferente que sentía o notaba cambiar porque leía mucho acerca de que tenía que sentir una mujer en cada semana del embarazo. En ese sentido nunca me asuste y asumí todo como tenía que pasar. La semana que era la cual me tenía que aliviar fui a mi última cita con el Ginecólogo y de ahí me mandaron directo al hospital a indujeron el parto. Estaba muy hinchada ya a este punto que lo único que yo quería era ya aliviarme y conocer a mí Bebe. Y bueno entre Lunes en la tarde sin ni un dolor alguno, era más agoto físico que nada. El parto fue un poco largo pero no sufrí tanto como lo hacen ver en los programas de televisión donde salen los partos de mujeres. Los dolores lo me comenzaron a intensificarse alrededor del Martes de en la tarde [dicen que las contracciones son más intensas cuando el parto es inducido a comparación de tener contracciones naturales] y no tuve el epidural para calmar el dolor. 

Casi todo el parto fue como lo pensé excepto la parte cuando en vez de hacerme respirar para pujar él bebe me hacían respirar para mantenerlo a dentro y esperar al doctor q llegara. Mas chistoso era cuando llego nomas empuje tres veces y salió todo. Porque yo reclamándole a las enfermeras que ya estaba lista para empujar y ellas no me creían y ya una viene a chequearme y todo el cuarto en alboroto a prepararse porque la cabeza del Bebe ya se miraba. El doctor llego enseguida y en el momento que me toco pujar fue un “pedazo de paste”, a mi sentir fue la parte más fácil. No me costó nada de trabajo y fue el alivio más grande cuando salen por completo. Al salir su cabeza completa, él solito comenzó a llorar con tanto sentimiento que me hizo llorar. Salió por completo al 3cer pujido y con tanta ansiedad le pregunto a mi esposo que era ¿niño o niña? Y me dice mi Tía que “Niño”, la emoción de ambos mi esposo eh yo era inmensa. Deseábamos que fuera un niño y bueno yo sentía que iba a ser niño. Creo que tenía como 3 meses y soñé un niño güero, largo y grande y mi abuela lo estaba conociendo por primera vez y lo cargaba y me decía que mejor yo lo cargara por estaba muy grande y pesado. 

Y cuando lo mire por primera vez eso es lo que mire un niño güero, largo grandote con las manos y pies más grandes que yo haiga visto un Bebe con. Mi Bebo así nació grandote midiendo 20 ½ in y pesando 7 lb 8.8 oz. Yo por lo menos lo esperaba más pesado, porque yo fui una beba grande pesando 10lb. Pero bueno mientras lo limpiarlo seguía llorando con tanto sentimiento hasta que mi Tía lo cargo y comenzó a hablar con él y luego que yo ya pude cargarlo me lo dio y ya él estaba totalmente tranquilo. Yo en ese momento era la mujer más feliz. Nació una semana antes de mis 21 años...

Al día siguiente cuando mi Bebo y yo estábamos solos me puse a hablar con él y a decirle que él era todo lo que esperaba. Y como yo ya lo conocía en sueños, le cuento cuando estaba embarazada y lo soñé. Él me quería mirar pero tenía ojos japoneses, tan chiquitos como los míos que parecía costarle abrirlos. Recuerdo que todos los que iban a verlos decían que si apenas había nacido porque se miraba tan grande y tenía unos pies y manos tan grandes que en mi familia no se había visto desde que yo había nacido.

Mi Primer Año como Mama.

El primer año ha sido lo que esperaba y lo que no esperaba. Agradecí y recibí la poca ayuda que fue solo para bañarlo. No pude dar pecho como esperaba porque nunca me vino la leche. Pero de todo lo más importante no me se enfermó al extremo de tener una infección de oídos, noches en la sala de emergencia nada por ese estilo gracias a Dios. Solo como 4 veces le dio gripa y ha sido muy valiente para las vacunas. Hasta el día de hoy solo una vez le llego a dar calentura después de las vacunas. Ha sido un bueno niño para dormir. Al Mes y medio comenzó a dormir toda la noche.

Él ha sido nuestra motivación más GRANDE, la razón de nuestro existir el fruto de nuestro amor. El para mi es el milagro más grande que Dios me pudo dar. Tenerlo en mi vida ah sido todo lo que soñé. Lo único que no espere es lo que no te puedes esperar; reacciones, emociones, sentimientos. Con cada mes que pasaba mirarlo crecer le agradecía a Dios por darme esta dicha tan grande de cumplirme el sueño de ser la Madre que no tuvimos mi hermana y yo.

Amo a Mi Bebo ♥

Comunique y Siga a Jazmin:

http://queridamujer.blogspot.com/

{PattyU} ♥

Momma Love Series

Our second Momma Love Blogger is a young lady who I met not too long ago thru her Sister who just so happens to be one of my most Amazing Momma friends! Patty is her younger Sister. I love Sisters. I love my own so much that I love younger Sisters all around! Patty is a very talented young lady with the CUTEST little Man EVER.

Enjoy!!!

{Guest Blogger}

[PattyU] Patricia Umanzor, MOMMA of uno [Elijah O’Dell Heath ], full time worker in the oilfield industry, wife to Eric Umanzor for a year this month, September. I make hair bows and I am an amateur photographer!

[PattyU] of Pattypics Photography & Patti’s Bowtique

How old you were when you first became a Momma?

[PattyU]Pregnant at 18, Momma at 19.

Was  it expected?

[PattyU] not at all!

Did your pregnancy go well?

[PattyU] overall my pregnancy went well I only got nauseas 2 times! And besides that I was very very active!

Was your pregnancy what you expected?

[PattyU]not at all, I actually was still playing soccer for 2 months and I didn’t find out I was pregnant until I was 14 weeks prego. Elijah didn’t come up on my pregnancy test. I took a total of 10 pregnancy test from august until November, and even did blood work and he didn’t come up on any test until November 11th 2008.

Did your delivery  go well?

[PattyU]did it, my son basically walked out of me, I actually went to my weekly check up on a Friday, may 8 2009. I was 38 weeks and I wanted to tell my doctor if we could aim for having my son the next weekend. My apt was at 10 and the doctor didn’t see me until 11ish. I was all ready to to find out the status and if we could have the baby next week, the dr checks and then he said have you felt any pain or anything, I told him no im just ready for this baby to get out. He chuckled and said well your wish is granted your in labor. WHATTTT LABOR, NO I CANT BE I HAVE TO GO TO THE MALL (I KNOW HOW DUMB TO SAY THAT) I was already 4cm dilated. The doctor couldn’t believe I had no idea I was in labor. So he said you have no time go directly to the hospital this baby is coming today. I took a deep breath and said okay I guess he can come today. So I left and drove myself to the hospital lol. I called my mom and sister and they were freaking out. I got to the hospital and started to fill out all the paper work I finally got a room around 2ish. I was just watching Hannah Montana on their tv and talking to the nurses family started getting there. Long story short I had Elijah at 4ish, yupp not 3 hrs into being there I had Elijah J.

Was your delivery what you expected?

[PattyU] no I was very scared, I thought I was going to be in so much pain, I thought I was going to scream, cry, curse, faint, but nope I had him like a pro!

How was your first year as a Momma?

[PattyU] not what I expected! I was a teen mom and lost out of my mind. After I had Elijah I got PPD (postpartum depression) I was a mess. After 3 months it slowly wore off and I started to enjoy motherhood the best I could. I had a lot of help from my mom and sister. I was very blessed to have my mom that basically supported Elijah and I. Elijah’s 1st year was basically the year of ups and downs. I thought his dad would take a bigger role in his life than he did but I came to realize that as long as Elijah has a loving mother than he isn’t losing out in anything. I surely had to grow up and mature myself a lot sooner but I wouldn’t trade him nor being a mother for anything in the world!

Was it all that you expected?

[PattyU]Not at all, I sound so clique and like one of the girls on teen mom but I really thought his dad would take a bigger role, that Elijah would sleep all night. But once you have a baby you realize it isn’t all rainbows and butterflies. I also didn’t expect to fall in love like I did. He was perfect to me!

Contact and Follow Patty:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pattis-Bowtique/125781247494867
http://pattypicsphotography.blogspot.com/
http://twitter.com/#!/Patti_nic25

{30 About 30}

[I've never been scared of numbers. Like 30. I embrace it. I love it. It means a lot. Age represents time well spent, wisdom and lessons learned. I love 30!]

{30 About Me}

The list they uh'continue!

Ha. Ha.

I hope I am not boring you! Let me know if I do....no really let me know. {Ha.}


{30 Things you should know about me!}




1. I don’t like Mayo...it’s a long story.


2. I love to EAT. {Anything and everything…except MAYO!}


3. I am not a fan of cats.


4. I had 2 birds once, and unknowingly killed them with Clorox fumes…but I said they committed suicide. {Shhhh. Ha.}

5. I have 2 brothers and a sister!


6. I have 6 God-Daughters {Cindy, Lorena, Gloria(Zuri),Melisa, Suzie and Becca} (I keep in touch with all of them or try at least)},  and a God-Son {Alan Yahir}


7. I secretly love to be alone!


8. I talk a lot…NO REALLY…A LOT.


9. I’ve never been to Vegas….


10. I would love to live anywhere other than HOUSTON!


11. I really don’t want to grow up! Ha.


12. I think I AM A TOYS R’ US KID! Ha.


13. I LOVE to stay up late and talk to my Husband about anything and everything…..


14. I love TV but have very little time to watch it.


15. The last Novela I saw was “Mañana es para Siempre”


16. I love Christian music but totally dance to Bachata and Salsa while I drive!


17. I haven’t gone out to a “club” in over 2 years!


18. I don’t hate people but I do hate actions. {Some people are so inconsiderate}


19. I am Catholic but I am not perfect!


20. I love taking pictures but need a new camera.


21. I am no longer scared to die. {I used to be. And, other than leaving my family and amazing husband and children behind, the actual thought of death...no longer scares me.}


22. I love MOVIES!


23. I laugh reallllyyy loud..and it used to be louder but when Ricardo and I were dating he told me I laughed really loud and it made him nervous so I stopped laughing loudly because it made me self-conscious. {Darn it.}


24. My favorite animal in the world is the elephant...but I know nothing about them! {Maybe I should learn}


25. I love Butterflies, ever since I was about 13.


26. My favorite color is {PINK}.


27. I haven’t bought new jeans in almost a year!


28. I dream of spending days and nights on an island somewhere far away with my children and hubby….relaxing and forgetting about the “real world”


29. The “Real World” was the first reality show I was addicted to.


30. I am not an addict…just saying…