Showing posts with label Confidence. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Confidence. Show all posts

Thursday, August 7, 2014

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!




Thursday, February 20, 2014

::Confidence:: #galentinesNP

Momma DisclosureThis is not a compensated post. The statements below are both my true and honest opinion.}

"The No's hurt so bad"

They do.

No.

You're not pretty enough.
You're not skinny enough.
You're not smart enough.
You're not tall enough.
You're not good enough.
You're not ______ enough.
...enough.

In a land filled with no's why not create our own YES! 

We have the power to give ourselves a Yes! 

Yes we can do it! 
Yes we are smart enough!
Yes we are good enough !

A couple of weekends ago I attended a great event with an inspiring group of ladies who have all created their YES! 

They were beautiful, motivating and above all YES creators!

Neydi from Neydi Photography came up with the idea of a Galentines "Valentines" themed makeover meet-up! It was a fun event, not only to meet new friends but also to gain some much need ME time!




Ashley  is the seemingly quiet and very beautiful artist from Make me Over Ashley! Her passion is her true voice expressed through her work! She is so sweet and really captures who are you as she works diligently on your make-up.

Then the Sister duo a true inspiration for me because I often ponder on how my Sister and I could team up! Karen and Brenda from Xten by DeAnda!! They were vivacious and spirited and their YES has already been determined by following their dreams and seeking their talents!

For a Momma like me the afternoon not only allowed for the much needed pampering ME time but it also opened my heart to a realization that I am also following my YES and my passion; by constantly seeking my true talents. The event allowed us to share stories, lots of fun laughs, some good bottle(s) of wine and delicious sweets provided by Ms. Neydi and her fabulous guests!


And oh yes, did I mention our Makeovers!? An amazing boost of confidence for this Momma of Dos! I felt so great inside and out!



Definitely a YES moment in my book! Thank you Neydi Photography and your awesome sponsors for this beautiful event!

Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Developing Self-Worth {Faith}

I will always be the first to admit that it's been a challenge to transition from years, and years of working crazy amount of hours, crazy amount of jobs in a crazy work environment outside the home to working crazy amount of hours, crazy amount of jobs in a crazy work environment inside the home. Ha. It's true. As someone who has worked outside the home their entire life, I prayed daily to become a Stay@HomeMomma, now that it has finally happened it's been, well. Yes, Crazy. 

Stressful. Overwhelming. Unexpected. 


I didn't picture the demand, the job itself, and the amount of patience it took to stay home with a 3 year old and a 2 year old. It's been chaos. Every day a little better but definitely a new challenge as the days go by....if that makes sense. Finding a balance has been difficult but slowly I am finding a new pace of life, a new schedule and my niche within my home. 

The balance is found in preparation, growth and learning from your mistakes. I believe being pampered on the outside can be just as important as being pampered within. When we make a change to our exterior being we feel great on the inside; proud and loved. When we make a change on our inner being, it shines through to the outside. I think people notice when you get a haircut but they notice even more when you have peace and happiness on the inside.

prayon


I am what I like to call an "open-minded non-traditional Catholic". I understand all the values and morals taught but I don't like to limit myself to one set of strict views because I feel that you can miss out on something so much bigger and so much more amazing. I believe in a true blend of the old traditional views mixed with new forms of worship of praise. A balance. Never one extreme or the other. 

In my almost 32 years of life, I have always "been" a Catholic. It wasn't until I turned 24 that I knew what having faith was. It was then that I not only opened my heart but my mind to new ways of thinking. I knew I loved praying to the Virgen de Guadalupe and that I believed in Jesus and the Saints. But, the traditional way of worship and praise just didn't fulfill this seeking and thirsty little heart of mine. I dove straight into my church and became more involved that is when I started to find new ways of worship and praise that weren't the traditional nights of praying the Rosary. This time I was deep in meditation and peace that only God could bring me.

I would sit in a quiet dark church and ask Jesus to sit with me to show me His light and guide me. And, as crazy as this may sound many, many days His presence was there and I had peace and a new sense of belief.

These days. I attend mass and read my Momma Devotional Bible {Mom's Devotional Bible NIV} and I also pray day in and day out for different reason. I wear medallas de Santos and light candles. I also attend events at different churches that I know my soul will benefit from, not always Catholic churches and I definitely enjoy it. 

Just this weekend I attend the annual Women's Event at New Hope Church in Pearland. It was my 2nd year attending and the message was awesome last year it was about Marriage and Relationships. This year it was about us; as Momma's, Wives, Daughters, Sisters, etc. We are all human and we all make mistakes. We can't please everyone and as Women we need God in our daily lives to guide us and lead us onto the path that He has planned for us. I Loved it. I know I will definitely make it a yearly event. Plus, I  got to spend time with my Beautiful Amiga Yvonne from Spanglish Girl which is always fun! 

Thursday, December 27, 2012

{On Direction} #2013

Christmas is gone. My family is going through a difficult time right now. One that when the time is right I will discuss for now I ask for prayers and time.....

I haven't uploaded my Christmas pictures, in part because my BIGGEST surprise this year was a present! An actual present. The way my Hubby works is that ever since we got married we decided that presents were not important. Moments have been. So, we don't get hung up on what to give one another and every year... the expectations are less but I still get a very well thought out present that I love and use! One year I got a hot pink blow-dryer, which I totally needed, my old one was...OLD. Another year I got a gift card to NY& Co. Which was perfect for work clothes! This year...tops it all! A brand-spankin'new camera! Which if you know me and my love for taking a million random pictures and you are my friend on FB I am totally taking the whole loading FB pictures, to a WHOLE.NEW.level! Haha.

But, with what we are going through, with Christmas, with 2013 just a few days away I want to really think about direction! For this little ol'Momma Blog, for Me as a Momma, for my family and my career and our future.

Life has been SO amazing to me in 2012 {reflections and look back at 2012 to follow soon} and I really want to make all this worth my while, my effort and my already spent time.

It's a difficult place to be but I know God has me here for a reason and just this morning my Son and I said a prayer for my future goals and I think that God has definitely given me so much more than I deserve. No, my life is NOT perfect. Never. No, I am not rich or have the fanciest and best, but my Hubby and I make it work everyday. Together. We are SO very Blessed. With truth, faith and love.

Am I ready for 2013? Yes, yes I am. 2012 has proven new strength and new hope in me and now I want to START over in 2013 and give my life a whole new DIRECTION. 

What about you?  Where has life taken you in 2012 and are you ready for 2013?


Friday, March 30, 2012

On confidence. Or lack thereof....

Ever since I can remember I have been a very confident person with high self-esteem. That area of my life has never been an issue whether I am a size 2 or a size 14. My smile says it all.

I was never the prettiest, or the smartest, or the tallest, or the most talented. But, I didn't care. I walked with my head high and my shoulders straight.

Then life happened. Last year I turned 30. I felt AMAZING. These days. The 30 syndrome is hitting me.I will be 31, 31. No longer 25 and so far from 18. I have felt not so very confident, as I have in the past. Time has settled on me. I have lived a full life, I think. Family, friends, Marriage, Travel, Education and now Children and Future. And well; my mind, soul and body reflect that. I have had DOS amazing little babies! Life just becomes so LIFE filled. The days need more hours and the hours cry for more minutes. Let's just say I have not been doing the Pretty Girl Rock! at all latley. HA.

"My name is Connie, I am so very...." Ha.  

Then this morning it hit me. How am I suppose to raise an amazing daughter with an amazing smile and crazy amounts of self-confidence if her Momma don't have it? Well, I retract. I am thinking back to those days when life was confident and I didn't doubt who I was or who I would become. Those days when I knew the wind would eventually blow in the right direction. To those days when life was about happiness and faith. No need to wear fancy jeans and do my make up, just wake up and go on about my day.

I want my daughter to know that she can be and do whatever she wants and that the way you look and how others see you comes from one place...that place is within us. Our own faith. Our own confidence. Our own glow and light.

God has placed that light in our hearts...it's up to us to keep it lit!

LIGHT IT UP! LIGHT IT UP!

This little light of mine...

SHINE. BRIGHT. SHINE BRIGHT .

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

::The Student's Wife:: An Identity Project

When I came up with the whole... "yeah, I'm gonna write about my Identity, thing"..it seemed a whole lot easier... Then, I read Vanessa's post and thought, WOW! I was even more inspired about the whole.."YEAH, I'M GONNA WRITE ABOUT MY IDENTITY, THING!"

Then for 2 nights in a row...stuck...like no other....

Then I thought...what makes me, me? What makes me, Ricardo's wife?

My Husband is a student. He is 32 years old and God willing after many, many years of sacrifice he will be graduating this Summer! {Go Coogs!}

When I look at him I see faith, strength, and courage. Night after night of studying, working during the day, coming home to be a Husband and a Daddy. I am not perfect {duh!}.  I gripe. I complain. I go on and on about everything that bugs me, things I want and live for, my passions, my creative peaks, my creative ruts, my wants, my needs, my LOVES{my children}, my friends, my family, my faith, my job..... {and on and on....} Some days he would come home and tell me he wasn't going to make it through the semester and he wasn't going to do school anymore... He was just going to quit.

As a wife...I'd step in and step up. I'd put that thinking cap of encouragement on and snap on my woman of faith cape....I have needed it most {and many of} nights...It's not easy. To see him suffer. To see him doubt. It hurts me. Some nights my tears put me to sleep as I listened to his thoughts in the dark... it's been a ride. Trust me, it's been a ride. TRUST ME.

I have learned to; uplift, pray, support, encourage, some days just let it be, some nights just sit in the still quiet, other nights remind him that he'd come this far..there was no WAY in the world I would let him give up..not for us, not for him and not for anyone. He gets discouraged, people don't see him the way I do. He sees me the way others don't. That's when it hit me...I am THIS, a Student's Wife and he gets that, many don't, many won't..ever.

He struggles with everyday life, work life, family life, school life and still he has accomplished so much and embraced it all. He has overcome. I love it. He has faith. He has prayer. I love him. He is my strength when I am weak, my motivation when I have none... He is himself for  me...

Where does that leave me? As his support, as his friend, as his cheerleader, as his coach, as his personal assistant, as his wife, as his everyday reminder of what we are working towards... of our goals and wants, some days of our basic needs. I am ME for him, I am a Student's Wife, and I love it. Simple. Sincere. Upbeat and upfront. Honest and Loving. Supportive and caring. Trying to make our own little way. Our own little life with our own little mistakes...we learn we grow. I am ME, for him... he is himself for ME.





To my Husband:

You may not know this, but I love being a Student's Wife it keeps me on  my feet and it keeps me alert! I Love you.

{He'll read this one day..he goes through my Blog sometimes..he doesn't admit to it..but he does... }

Being your Wife has given me new confidence, new courage and new strength to move forward. Motivation and encouragement to think BIG, to plan ahead and to be well organized! Thank You for giving me a job to do when you are away... and when you are near... I am your wife... and you are a student!

Love you more than you know,

The Student's Wife