:: Making Shifts and Creating Change as Moms:: #HoustonMommieSeries

::GIVEAWAY POST::

As Momma's we often feel like we are not making an impact but trust me, there is so much we can do to create shifts and change. We start with our home, creating a safe, healthy and happy place for our children and family. We start with ourselves, making sure that our needs are met, that we are well rested and that we are minds are well taken care of. We start with our circle of supportive, positive and like-mind Momma's.

Making a shift and creating change, comes from within and our surroundings. I have been for months now, working on myself, my inner peace and really prioritizing my goals, my health and thinking about my finances. I hope to be able to write a little more in the month to come and fill you in. If you follow me on Instagram, Facebook and Snapchat (@realmommaofdos) then you know, LOTS has been going on. 

I joined a new project with a wonderful group of women, who I admire and am inspired by. You can find more details on our Facaebook page, Livin'Latina Live. 

There is always something special to me about partnering with local organizations and supporting local women, I am all for it! Which is why today, I am bringing you a giveaway for the following series, The Mommie Series! It can help YOU create that shift you are looking for! Gain knowledge in the following areas; Family, Health, Finance, and Fashion with some amazing panelist and speakers. Led by an incredible team of local Mombassadors!  You will also find a WONDERFUL group filled with local connections, a new network and support system. 

See details below AND enter to win!!! Tell your friends, it ends Sunday! 

Misti Pace-Krahl, is the founder of The Mommie Series.

The Mommie Series is a quarterly educational series for women based on family, health, finance, and fashion.  Their success has been featured on CultureMap, 002 Magazine, Tidbits, Houston Chronicle, Houston Woman Magazine and spotlighted on KRPC Channel 2. The Mommie Series has been called one of the best Girls’ Night Out providing a full “Edu-tainment.” You can also find them at - The Mommie Series.

 Fall Edition is on Wednesday, August 9th at Native Citizen. 

NOW ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A SET OF TICKETS FOR YOU AND FRIEND TO JOIN THIS AWESOME GROUP OF MOMMA'S!

If you enter and don't win you can still obtain a ticket with a 20% discount, use code "momma"

Website link to tickets:  http://www.themommieseries.com/the-mommie-series

Direct Ticket Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-edition-of-the-mommie-series-tickets-36089843694

Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/848502805298611/

(Please select "going")

www.TheMommieSeries.com


2 Tickets to ONE lucky follower

a Rafflecopter giveaway

::Mommy Trade:: Mom's Night Out Event, May 16th in Houston #ad

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

As Momma's, there are certain features that we seek when joining online groups some important ones are; feeling secure and trusting the group, sense of community and how easy it is to navigate their website. Which is why I am loving Mommy Trade! It combines all the convenience of being able to buy, sell, or trade your used baby items with a sense of community and safety. I know that when I had my children, this could have been very helpful. I would give up on trying to have garage sales and would end up throwing items out or just giving them all away. Mommy Trade makes the process of selling these items and making money, simple! 

For all the details on how you can sign up and cost visit their site here, they are very affordable: http://mommytrade.com/mommy-trade-about-us/

On May 16th, you will be able to meet the group face to face as they will have their first-year celebration with a Mom's Night Out. Where you can network with other Momma's, engage with local Momma entrepreneurs and participate in a lot of fun giveaways! 

You will be able to win a few Momma of Dos goodies as well- Social Media consulting and Blogging 101 consultation, for moms with small businesses or looking to work from home. You must attend the event to win! To enter, tell them Momma of Dos sent you! 

**Mommy Trade-Mom's Night Out Event**

Join us for our Moms Night out hosted by MommyTrade.com! Meet our local moms and have a fun-filled night out! 

$5 at door or show ticket

We have an exclusive venue just for Moms Night Out and can't wait for you to join us!

Your $5 Ticket includes:

* 1 Drink Ticket

* Apps (First Come First Serve)

* Enter all Giveaways (via smartphone)

* Shop until YOU drop at all of our fun and mom-friendly businesses! 

* Happy Hour Pricing on Drinks

* Mommy Trade - Cake (Yum)

* Access to exclusive Moms Night dinner menu (special pricing) Dinner is NOT included in $5 ticket. Ordering options will be posted on the Events page.

This venue will hold 200 local mommies so invite your friends and let's enjoy this fun and relaxing mommy night out!

http://www.crescentmoonwinebar.com/home

https://www.facebook.com/crescentmoonwinebar

(Moms Only) We will be looking at your Facebook profile to see if you are a mommy. 

If you are a local business and would like info about sponsorship or a Table contact us at support@mommytrade.com

*This is our official 1-year anniversary celebration and we hope you can join us in celebrating!

Please RSVP via Facebook!

Tickets for Sale!

http://bit.ly/1NNEftR

::CHI Houston Latina Bloggers Event Recap::

::Momma Disclosure:: This is a sponsored post in collaboration with Farouk Systems & Lopez Marketing. All opinions and statements are my own. 

When I used to think of CHI, I thought of, obviously;  my curly "untamable" mane, a long-standing reputation and great smelling products. Now, when I think about it, I think about community, a commitment to quality and reinvention that fits the time. Houston Latina Bloggers were invited to take a tour and learn all about Farouk Systems as well as meet the CEO of CHI, Basim Shami, son of Farouk Shami. I didn't know how inspiring the moment would be but I truly felt an instant connection with the brand's purpose and future goals.

The facility aside from being fully equipped to produce high-end, eco-friendly products is also almost fully staffed by Latinos. That alone makes me feel a wonderful sense of belonging. Farouk Systems recognizes the hard work and dedication of the Latino community which led to the company cutting any ties to Donald Trump, which is definitely admirable. That paired with Farouk systems involvement in education created a new-found inspiration to continue to support the company and their products. 

Not only was I in awe of their efficient production line, their passion for education and the Latino community but also their constant commitment to creating new products. Their upcoming lines promise to be different and just as great as everything they produce now. We received a sneak peek at these products, how they plan to bring them out over the next year or so and how each product was created. Wish I could share more but I can't so follow CHI and their social media sites for all the upcoming reveals and products lines. 

CHI En Espanol Twitter 

CHI En Espanol IG

CHI En Espanol FB

The event was filled with so much information, so many goodies, a great lunch and, of course, silly moments where we were able to see the behind the scenes of all things CHI. It was an amazing experience and am happy that our group was selected to attend. I have since opened all my products and began exploring items that I didn't know they had such as the tea tree oil products. As well as items I have never tried like the dry shampoo, which is my new favorite item. You can read all about these items on their site: 

DRY SHAMPOO

TEA TREE OIL

BIOSILK

::Houston Events/Giveaways with HLB Members:: #HLBNetwork

Join local Latina Blogger Sharon of the Bitchy Business Briefs THIS SATURDAY, February 6th!! American Heart Association - Houston will be at Macy's, Total Go RED Makeover from 2-4 pm inside Memorial City Mall located at 900 Gessner Road, Houston, Texas 77024. 

Bring your girlfriends and when you turn in your event passport you will be entered into a drawing for $250.00 Macy's gift card. 

#GoRedHouston #LatinasGoRed 

Follow Sharon:
Blog: http://www.thebitchybusinessbriefs.com/#!blank/cx97
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBiitchyBusinessBriefs
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SharonLeeZapata
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebitchybusinessbriefs/

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Myself and fellow co-founder of Houston Latina Bloggers, Jihane have been invited to speak on the Careers in Media: Print and Digital panel for Career Day on Saturday, February 13 at the George R. Brown Convention Center. I will be speaking about my experience as a writer/blogger who has also written for magazines and newspapers. 

As a blogger/writer I have great respect for everyone in the field and take so much pride in not only what I do but also teaching young Hispanics in our community how they too can reach their goals.

Students from 6th to the 12th grade can learn about what it takes to get into the print industry, how digital media is complimenting and transforming print media. What positions are available in these two fields and what you can do to be a part of it. 

Join us as we join many other local faces and voices of television and radio! It promises to be a great learning experience; see all the details at: www.hispanic-forum.org

::More about Jihane::

    {Jihane is on the far left in the dark blue shirt. Picture  by Alex Montoya of D'mont Photography} 

My name is Jihane. I am a British Latina, vegetarian(ish), mother of one, multicultural, tree hugger blogger. I blog about organic, natural, sustainable, cruelty-free and vegetarian topics and products, as well as the challenges of raising a vegetarian child in Texas. 

I moved to Houston 5 years ago all the way from Newcastle upon Tyne, England!  

I started blogging  back in 2011, during that time I was doing a Masters in Communications at the University of St Thomas and thought a blog would help me with my writing skills. Blogging, not only did help me become a better writer but it also helped me become better at networking, media pitching and PR. Soon enough I was part of Latism Houston Chapter and the Houston Association of Hispanic Media Professionals. 

I am now the proud co-founder of Houston Latina Bloggers; an idea that started after Connie, Ariana and I meet at Blog Elevated 3 years ago. We believe in the power of our voice, the voice of the modern, hard working, passionate and caring Latinas not only in Houston but around the world. It was this vision that drove us together and that continues to move us forward with this project. I look forward to working with all of you and finding out more about the Latinas that move Htown! 

Follow Jihane: 

Twitter & IG: @onixJihane  

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Onixjhealthyliving 

Blog: www.onixj.wordpress.com

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Our very own HLB Social Media Director will have her first ever workshop! It will be an Instagram 101 class which will have great content to help grow and promote your brand. Great for new bloggers or small business owners. The class will be February 20th and is $35.00, a perfect investment of long term results! You can RSVP HERE! 

Follow Ariana:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/a_shankasaurus/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/3twentysix

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/3twentysix/?fref=ts

Blog: http://www.3twentysix.com/

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::Giveaways::

If you follow Nikki a beautiful Latina and her blog over at Lipstick and Brunch, then you know she has a great giveaway on her right now! For all you looking to create some unique wall art with Minted. She has a perfectly crafted post over on her site, where you can learn more about her newest Valentine's Day giveaway. 

    {Photo Credit: Nikki of Lipstick and Brunch}

::More about Nicole::

My name is Nicole (most people call me Nikki) and I built a career working in women's and food magazines as a professional photographer and beauty writer. This blog is my curated space in the cyber-universe where you'll find my travels & foodie moments, frugal fashion finds that will make you look expensive, celebrity sightings and event coverage and my make-up obsession translated into beauty subscriptions, hauls and reviews. Be inspired. Live happily. Smile in the face of adversity. Be bold and never give up!

Follow Nicole:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lipstickandbrunch/?fref=ts

Blog: http://lipstickandbrunch.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lipstickandbrunch/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LipstickBrunch

::Houston Latina Bloggers::

CHI Espanol currently has a giveaway on their site and HLB members are helping promote it. 

This contest is only open to those within the USA. The link to register is: http://gvwy.io/cmbxpnx 

Deadline to register is Feb 19th!! You are your BFF will have the opportunity to win; Shampoo, Conditioner, hair spray, a CHI bag and styling iron.                                                                   

Top 5 Items Bloggers need for Networking/Social Media Events #HLBNetwork

Top 5 Items Bloggers need for Networking/Social Media Events:

Attending your first Blogger networking event can be rather intimidating. Learning the essentials that every Blogger should bring to any social media or networking event is important. I quickly learned what those were and to this day I pack my bag with the same items. If you have seen me at conferences you will know that I always end up with more bags than I come in with but that's part of the Blogger swag that's inevitable.

I have, over the last 4 years, acquired all my equipment and perfected my methods of networking but my bag is always filled with the following 5 items:

1) Camera- Now, I didn't start off with a fancy anything, as a matter of fact my first year or so my phone was my camera. Or, I would ask my Blogger friends to take pictures and then I would post their pictures and give them credit. If you network correctly you end up with the best Blogging buddies, who never mind sharing pictures with you. Of course as the months went by I knew I needed a good camera. Honestly some small point and shoot cameras these days, take really good pictures. A really good smart phone also does the trick now-a-days.  

2) Cell Phone- It's a no-brainer, if you are like me, your phone is your everything. I have easy access to all my social media apps. Quick access to recording both video and audio as well as taking quick pictures to post on several social media outlets at once. I also take a ton of notes on my phone. Plus you know people call and text me, by people I mean my Husband and kids. They wonder where I am, all the time. Go figure.

3) iPad/Tablet (or laptop)- I have never been a huge fan of laptops they are not my favorite computer, at all. I prefer a good old desktop or even my phone and iPad serve the same purpose. My iPad sometimes has better features and a bigger view than my cellphone. Or, if I need to multitask and be on both devices at the same time it's super handy. And, since my iPad has a keyboard it's sometimes easier to take notes on it. It also takes great pictures and video. The extra device is always good for backup. Depending on the type of event I might not even use it but I like to take it with me. Just in case.

4) Promotional Items and Business cards- These items are so useful to promote your blog. A simple business card can lead to great conversations with brands. This year I invested in pens, best idea ever. I feel like even if you are a small blog and just starting, creating promotional items is very helpful. I wouldn't invest too much money in the beginning. I purchased my pens in bulk for no more than $75.00.

5) Notebook- Yes, I bring at least 2 notebooks everywhere I go. Not only because I am obsessed with them but because I love to write. Sometimes, I just love my pen touching the paper. I am a bit nerdy. I used to have the best handwriting, these days technology has affected this. So, when I can, I try to write with pen and paper and not rely so much on my phone or computer. Truly sometimes it's faster and easier to simply open a notebook and start writing; as opposed to having to turn on a device and wait for it to load or open.

You will find that some travel lighter than others but at the end of the day being well prepared is better than not being prepared at all. Knowing the type of event and what the agenda is, is always good to find out before hand. I might take these items and only ever use my camera. Other times, I have regretted forgetting my camera or not bringing a notebook. Which is why I fill my bag with everything I need and keep them close by. You will learn what occasion call for a full bag versus a simple purse and cellphone. 

Happy Networking and good luck!

::Te Para Tres:: Recap #VidaLexus

::Momma Disclosure:: { This is part of a compensated event. All opinions and statements expressed below are my own and true and honest. }

A few weeks ago I was asked to help cover a very special event here in Houston. One that I was more than willing to attend considering that La Santa Cecilia would be playing! I fell in love with La Marisoul's eclectic style and beautiful personality as well as her voice the first time I heard her sing last year at another event. Her and her band have a very folkloric rock style if it can be described as that. Their music is, I think, a little bit of Ranchero, Norteño, & Cumbia with a rock-band appeal.  

Picture Credit: Ariana Reed from 3TwentySix 

And, then there was Pili, she might not remember but I met her years ago at Latism here in Houston. She is beautiful, determined and very well poised. Everything about her screams  rock chic. Her style and her presence are strong and very sophisticated. She is now the host of Te Para Tres, you might also recognize her from the Christmas commercials with Eugenio Derbez. 

Picture Credit: Ariana Reed from 3TwentySix /Selfie by Me :) 

On this day, I was able to team up with a dear friend that coincidentally enough, I also met at Latism back in 2012, Ari from 3TwentySix. As well as a large group of local Latino bloggers all of which are part of why I took my blog to a different level. Juanof Words, who invited me to my first blogger conference which yes was Latism. I guess you could say that it was a mini-reunion for me. His wife Anjelica, of Crafty Thrifter. And, Yvonne of Spoiled Latina. So much great talent and recognized Latino writers and Social Media experts, it was a fun reunion for sure!

Picture Credit: Ariana Reed from 3TwentySix /Selfies by Me 

The event was held at the House ofDereon, another local orgullo, home of  #QueenBey that to me was the cherry on top. I was able to invite a couple of friends and my Hubby who almost always loves to tag along on fun events. The venue was very fitting for the cultural take-over of the Houston night. The music was, on point, as one would say! Drinks are always a favorite. But, the one thing my Husband could not go without sitting in was, the cars. Lexus is known for sleek beauty, luxury and sophistication. All of which is embodied in their latest models.

Picture Credit: Ariana Reed from 3TwentySix /Myself 

Picture Credit: Ariana Reed from 3TwentySix /Myself 

In all the night was fun and upbeat, the dance floor was never empty and every song gave you a new reason to stand up and just dance! 

{Photo Credit: Collaboration between Ari of 3TwentySix and Myself} 

::Confidence to Speak:: On being a Panelist

When I started writing years ago it was all about journaling, keeping record of my pregnancies, recording the small happenings of Momma-hood and my children's milestones. These days I can only hope that my blog posts reach the right people and that the words being typed on my computer at home can touch someone's heart. That I can be relate-able and that the information being given is useful for someone to feel motivated, inspired and moved to do what they love! 

A couple of weekends ago I was given a wonderful opportunity to be a panelist on the "Blogger Bonanza" panel at the Woodlands Mom Expo! The experience was definitely unique and a first for me. I have never spoken to a large crowd about blogging in this type of setting. 

The speaking opportunity was presented to me by another good Momma friend Shana of the Real Single Moms Club here in Houston. I am so appreciative of her confidence in me. And, thankfully Lori, the creator of the expo, believed in me enough to take me on as a speaker for her event. I learned a lot about myself  and about public speaking in general.  

It wasn't a task that I took lightly. No matter how small of duty it might have been for some, I prepared and even took on a mentor. My dear San Antonio Sister Melanie of Que Means What. She was the best at giving me speaking tips and what to be prepared with. I felt really good and she helped build my confidence.  

I looked through the topics that were going to be discussed and made a "cheat sheet" for myself. I thought about my answers and how I would convey my message to the group. I told myself that no matter how many people were present I would speak on what has become one of my biggest passions and motivations. 

And, in all honesty the day came and I was a little nervous. I think because I took my role very serious and prepared for it, I had more confidence then if I had not been as prepared. I also reminded myself that I had to be honest and consistent with who I really am. I am all about being ones true self. No need to hide who you are, people will love you or not and that's okay with me. 

My best advice and take away from this experience; If you really want something, GO FOR IT! Don't allow anyone or yourself to hold you back! 

I also created a handout for the presentation which contained the following tips.

::Top 5 Momma of Dos Tips for Newbie Bloggers::

So you want to be a Blogger?

5 jump start tips for all new bloggers:

1. Create a Blog and topics that you LOVE and appeal to what you want most out of your blog. It will help when trying to reach your target audience.
2. Find like-minded bloggers and follow their blogs or join their networks; don’t be shy! Everyone started somewhere and you will need support!
3. Be consistent; try to post once a day on your favorite Social Media platform  and at least twice per week on your blog. It’s important to build and keep your audience growing.
4. Each platform has it’s “tricks”, do your research and learn those details that will help you grow your social media sites. Ex: Twitter and Instagram-hashtags; Pinterest- good, rectangular pictures with wording; Facebook-tagging posts and how they are shared.
5. Don’t forget to have FUN! Blogging should be your passion and something you want to do, it’s like everything else…if it becomes a chore then it loses its light!

                     

::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