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. 

:: 3 things to know Before attending a Conference:: #LATISM15

                               ::Momma Disclosure:: This is a compensated post. All statements are my true and honest opinion. 

                                                All pictures taken by:  Andy Ramirez  http://www.andyphotographer.com/

Last week, as you all may know, I attended LATISM. It's one of many conferences I have been to. You would think that I know what I am doing, right? Well, as I left DC Friday night the shoulda, coulda, woulda was starting to settle in. Thinking about the many more connections I could have made and how much more I should have prepared for the conference. Immediately made mental notes as to what I should do differently next time. Because, there are always other opportunities to make good connections. Here are ::three:: things I think are important to know, before you attend your next networking event or conference.

1) Review the agenda 

One thing I like to do is review the agenda before the event. It will give you information about times, location and what will be discussed. The amount of information can be overwhelming, but being prepared helps ease the stress. I try to remain on a single track and attended the sessions I know  will be interesting to me. But,  I also like to attended sessions a bit out of my scope and learn something new. Before you attend your next event, review the agenda. Know the times and where your sessions are located so you can plan accordingly and select topics not only that you know but those you can learn something new from.

2) Make a list of companies, brands or contacts you want to connect with at the event

Most events have group pages on Facebook where they disseminate information or list their sponsors on their websites. It is smart to review the list carefully. Know who you want to connect with and more importantly make sure that the brand fits your blog. I understand wanting to connect with big companies and brand names but at the the end of the day, if it doesn't fit your blog, the partnership really won't last. I was able to connect with a couple of personal blog contacts, I have followed certain blogs for years and wanted to meet some of the ladies behind those blogs. I did also make great new connections with brands who want to work with Latina's in Houston. Having a defined brand and knowing what you are seeking long-term is very important. Some brands knew me because of my time in the business. And, I connected with others because I knew exactly what I wanted to say to them. Being prepared is important, in all instances.

3) Relax and Enjoy

Being unprepared causes for a lot of missed time and running around. Which is why being organized and knowledgeable before the event is important. And, at the end of the day, yes, you gain valuable lessons, important contacts and great new partnerships. But, if you didn't have fun and enjoy your time, it becomes point less. You don't want to be burned out during an event or conference the frustration can show and you can miss a good opportunity to interact with others. If you want to have a good productive time at a conference you need balance. Know what you want to achieve and who you want to connect with but also have fun and relax. The real you is more authentic when you are having fun.

::Wordless Wednesday:: Kinda... #LATISM15

::Momma Disclosure:: This is a compensated post. All statements are my true and honest opinion. 

If you know me, then you know that I can't possibly be wordless. Especially on a Wednesday. Ha. 

Last week I went on an amazing adventure, brought upon by an opportunity. LATISM is a conference that has gradually grown into a very well known and recognized organization. The organizers really do work hard to create a welcoming atmosphere and positive space for sharing. I am happy to have joined them this year and honored to have been selected as a Top Latino Digital Influencers. 

The experience is unique and if you have not attended you can research them here. I have been waiting to attend again since 2012, this year the opportunity was just right. It's one of the conferences on my Blog Conference Bucket List. 

Here is a sneak peek into that experience {full recaps later this week}:

::Blogalicious:: Conference Recap

{::Momma Disclosure:: This is not a compensated post. I was invited to Blogalicious by Texas Latino Bloggers. All opinions expressed are my own personal opinions.}

Friday morning, I boarded the Mega-Bus in Katy, Texas near Houston and headed out to San Antonio! My second trip by myself , since my children were born and maybe since I have been married. It's always exciting at first and soon after I start to miss the chaos I leave behind. I was so excited about the Mega-bus that I never took a picture. It was a good experience, I booked my trip for $15.00. The bus was clean and comfy, the trip took about 2 1/2 hours. {For more pictures find me on Instagram @mommaofdos !}

I arrived in San Antonio and was greeted by my friends Alba & Michelle at the bus stop. We walked a couple of blocks to the Westin on the Riverwalk where I hit the ground running! I started with lunch and went on to attend afternoon sessions and to meet all of the amazing sponsors.

Later that night I had the opportunity to attend a dinner sponsored by Tylenol and their #smilingitforward #ad campaign, please visit their website for details. The campaign will donate $1.00 for every smiling photo of our children that we upload on their site. The funds are donated to the Children's Health Fund. During the dinner we discussed our own concerns or questions about our families and children's health. It was so informative and a great way to learn more about what other Momma's think about different health issues in the Latino community. This was also a wonderful opportunity to meet and chat will all of the Latina bloggers at the event. We then broke away into a smaller group and set out on a mini-girls night out! It didn't last long we were exhausted but it was so much fun!

Saturday morning; I took the challenge of waking up early {at 6:30 a.m.} and joined some of the other amazing bloggers  from Blogalicious for a Photo-walk on the Riverwalk! It was very informative our Photography guru was Candace her pictures and perspective are very unique. She gave some great tips which allowed us to capture our early morning site-seeing. If you want to see some of the images captured follow us on Instagram {@mommaofdos} under the hashtag #begreatb6pics.

That afternoon I was able to attend sessions given by some of my personal favorites including a very inspirational lunch about embracing your failures and learning from them given by Kathy Cano-Murillo of Crafty Chica. {I wish I had a glitter font, she deserves to have a sparkly name!} She spoke about eliminating self-doubt and "throwing away the inner sergeant whistle". When I attend this kind of session I feel re-energized, inspired and motivated. It's a wonderful feel-good session filled with so many emotions. Kathy never disappoints, when she speaks she is sure to motivate you to do more! Who can say no to her positive energy and always smiling face!  

I also attended Pintrest/Facebook Engagement sessions both equally important for gaining traffic to my little ol'blog. In all, the sessions were great and I walked away rich in information.    

Personally I have learned something new at every conference that I attend and they have all helped build my blog in positive new ways!

What I gain at each conference:

::Connections:: Real life and in-person. It's just so different once you meet all of the amazing writers, photographers and inspiration speakers in person and can actually talk to them! 

::Perspective:: I usually come away with a new perspective in so many different areas of life and blogging. Everything just seems to shift into a positive and hopeful direction. 

::New Tips Acquired:: I am not a newbie blogger but I learn something new everyday! 

::A Mini-Girls Getaway:: The past few conference have just felt like fun little girlfriend getaways and it's so relaxing and a great way to relieve some daily stress for this Momma of Dos. 

::Inspiration/Motivation:: Every writer and person at the conference adds a little to my spirit and motivation. I am always so inspired when I listen to other's story, their struggles and how they have overcome all obstacles to be where they are. 

{TOMORROW :: HUGE PICTURE POST!}

Pre-Conference Jitters #beblogalicious #begreatb6

                                                     http://beblogalicious.com/conference/

I know. I am not a newbie. But, this is really the first year that I get invited to "so many" different conferences and that I am able to attend. Therefore, most the conferences I attend are new to me. Even Blog Elevated which I attended last year, but this year the venue was new, there were so many new people and opportunities! 

When I first got invited to Blogalicious, I thought, "Oh sure, no biggie. Just another conference." But then, I registered and was added into the Facebook group. And, OH.MY.WOW. Within a day I realized how huge this will be and how awesome it is that I am ending this year's conference run with Blogalicious! I can just feel that it will be another amazing experience to share and learn from. 

After I had my major "O.M.W!" moment my next thought was; what am I going to wear?!?! Haha. Such a girl.  Here are a few looks and outfits from the conferences I have attended so far this year...

Also, it's midnight on Thursday and I am not yet finished packing! I leave tomorrow morning...if you want to follow my little adventure and conference wardrobe follow me on:

::Facebook:: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Momma-of-Dos/167499493284586

::Pintrest:: http://pinterest.com/mommaofdos/

::Twitter:: https://twitter.com/MommaofDosTX

::Instagram:: http://instagram.com/mommaofdos

       

::Time Change~Seasons:: #motivationalmonday

http://conference.beblogalicious.com

Our lives have many seasons of change, growth and just everyday life filled experiences.

This year I am definitely thankful to have not only a full-time job but also that my blog has been filled with work and opportunity. It’s been one of the biggest seasons for me and this little here journey of sharing and pouring my heart out. 

After almost 7 years of working, writing, and attempting to take my blog to the next level, it’s happened.

But, funny thing is, now that I am living this season. I want something different. Something more “personally” fulfilling. Just can’t quite put my keyboard on what it is yet… and I know, people would probably think; what else do you want? But, trust me, I know there is more out there, I just have to keep working towards the goal of turning my passion into something that everyone can see and will want to be a part of!

I have figured out that too much hustle and bustle is not the perfect fit for my family. Yet, I keep doing it anyway. I told myself in June that the Ford conference was the last conference I would attend in 2014. But, here I am in October and getting ready to go to my second conference since June.  

I told myself I would take a break from October to November for about a month, but guess what? October is gone and I worked more than I did in September. Now November is here and all I can think is, why would I take a break now?

While I know that extensive traveling is not exactly what I want for myself and my family life, I do love it. I love the adventure of it all and this month my little family will join me in the travel to one of my conferences. That’s a blessing for sure.

I have in recent years lacked in my planning, so these days we tend to do a lot of “spur of the moment” type things. I think Blogging can be a combination of both being prepared and then just taking it one day at a time. Which is why I feel it has worked me and I have been able to get through this season and prepare for what is to come... 

And, as this season comes to an end and I feel a new one coming in… while the fears and doubt fill my mind and clutter my heart. I am ready. I want this place to be filled with so much more and I am want to make it all happen.

Are you going through a new season right now? How will you handle it?

W2W Conference #w2wempowered #iwokeuplikethis

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

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

Destiny:

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

Purpose:

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

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

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

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

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

Speakers:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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