::Cirque Du Soleil:: #amaluna

::Momma Disclosure:: {This is a compensated post in collaboration with Cirque du Soleil. All opinions and statements expressed below are my own and true and honest. All professional photography provided by Cirque du Soleil PR. }

Houston is a wonderful city filled with so many things to do! I love the fact that shows that are presented in New York or Vegas and even over seas are brought here to our city. One of my favorites is Cirque Du Soleil, as I stated before, from the first time we went to Cirque we fell in love. The artistry and talents displayed are so unique. Amaluna was no different; it was a nail biting and mystical show, I loved it. 

::After the show we had the awesome opportunity to learn more about the myterious BIG TOP::

Cirque du Soleil has a resident show which is in Las Vegas and  a traveling show which is called the "Big Top". The Big Top travels to various cities and even over seas. It displays flags across the top of the main tent which represent the different nationalities of the shows artists. I thought this was a great way to honor the artist. The Amaluna tent has 17 flags. The Big Top to me is all about the ambiance and a more intimate setting which I love. Amaluna is the 33rd production and there are 36 shows in all. 

Amaluna to represents the beauty and strength of Women. The shows producers made a conscious effort to cast more female roles and a 100% female band.  The shows feminism gives off of sense of woman power and definitely inspired me. It's so whimsical and interprets such a great love story. According to the shows PR director the gymnastics were incorporated to help display a variety of talents, so uneven bars  were included. Cirque showcases acrobatics and theatrical acts with live singing and acting. Amaluna has only been out for 3 years and on the 27th of February they will celebrate their 1,000 show. The show takes 8 days to setup, 3 days to take down and runs for about 4 weeks. Cirque travels with 65 full truck loads. This show includes a water-ball, the acts based around it are phenomenal.  

Amaluna can be very family friendly but some of the comedy is for adults. I recommend it more for a date night or girls night out. I would bring my kids but my 4 year old daughter loves visiting bathrooms everywhere we and is a busy body, so I am sure we would miss something. My son I know would be very amused. There is a lot of research and development that goes into every show . It's a very intense process that it takes about 4 years to develop one show. The show then goes to what they call the "the lions dens" where it is decided if the show makes the cut or not. The shows are are live and therefore every night can be modified and  might not ever be the same. Live shows can be very grueling the artist take Monday off. They travel with physical therapist and have a full gym on site. 

The moment of shock came when during the Q&A my Hubby who is not part of the media or a blogger asked about a specific balancing act and its uniqueness!! It was a great question and the PR director loved that he asked about it. And it was a very unique act only one man in Switzerland can do it and  it is unique to the couple of people which he trained; on of which is his very own daughter! Her and another young lady now trade off in the show to perform it.

Over all the show displays female empowerment  and attempt to break all gender stereotypes which still very much exist in 2015! But, this show  breaks those barriers through their acts and performers. Every cast member has a special  talent and strict discipline and  Cirque Du Soleil definitely allows them to showcase it. Scouting  for the show includes watching YouTube videos and visiting various cities to watch live auditions. The average age for the performers is 25/26 with the youngest being 17 now,she was 15 when cast.

If you have not purchased your tickets do it now before the show ends on March 22nd! 

For more information: http://www.cirquedusoleil.com/en/shows/amaluna/default.aspx

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Twitter:  #amaluna

::Amaluna:: Cirque Du Soleil in Houston GIVEAWAY

::Momma Disclosure:: {This is a compensated post in collaboration with Cirque du Soleil. All pictures provided by PR for Cirque du Soleil.}

Years ago my Husband and I decided to check out a show called Corteo by Cirque du Soleil. We had no idea what it was all about and wanted to try something new. My Husband was hesitant. He didn't think it was something "guys went to". When we emerged, it had become one of his new favorites. The show was amazing. We couldn't get enough and have since been able to attend 3 other shows here in Houston! I love the convenience of it being here in our home town, and the venues are usually an intimate small setting perfect for taking it all in.   

Cirque du Soleil, if you have never attended before is a mix of an acrobatic act, with a musical and theatrical show. It's very magical and they definitely appeal to the adult crowd with a very sophisticated circus atmosphere. If you didn't get to celebrate Valentine's day this is a perfect date night idea. Each show displays a unique set of talents and artistry it's something we have enjoyed in the past and can't wait to see this year!

You are not convinced yet that you want to go? Well how about some FREE tickets to their new show here in HOUSTON! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

::Details about the show::

AMALUNA

Amaluna invites the audience to a mysterious island governed by Goddesses and guided by the cycles of the moon. Their queen, Prospera, directs her daughter’s coming-of-age ceremony in a rite that honors femininity, renewal, rebirth and balance which marks the passing of these insights and values from one generation to the next.

In the wake of a storm caused by Prospera, a group of young men lands on the island, triggering an epic, emotional story of love between Prospera’s daughter and a brave young suitor. But theirs is a love that will be put to the test. The couple must face numerous demanding trials and overcome daunting setbacks before they can achieve mutual trust, faith and harmony.

Amaluna is a fusion of the words ama, which refers to “mother” in many languages, and luna, which means “moon”; a symbol of femininity that evokes both the mother-daughter relationship and the idea of goddess and protector of the planet. Amaluna is also the name of the mysterious island where this magical story unfolds.

A TRIBUTE TO THE WORK AND VOICE OF WOMEN

For the first time in Cirque du Soleil’s history, Amaluna features a cast that comprises 70% women, with a 100% female band. “Amaluna is a tribute to the work and voice of women”, explains Director of Creation Fernand Rainville. “The show is a reflection on balance from a women’s perspective”, he adds. Director Diane Paulus, winner of a 2013 Tony Award (Pippin) and recently named as one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2014, says: “I didn’t want to build a ‘women’s agenda’ show. I wanted to create a show with women at the center of it, something that had a hidden story that featured women as the heroines.” Paulus drew from a series of classical influences when creating the concept of the show; including tales from Greek and Norse mythology, Mozart’s The Magic Flute and Shakespeare’s The Tempest.

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL

Some 30 years ago, Cirque du Soleil was but a dream. It was the dream of a small community of travelling performers who would do anything to share their love of the stage, of circus and of the world. The family has grown since then and now includes thousands of dreamers—creators, artists, technicians and workers who toil in the shadows. The dream has become a symbol of Québec pride, an international entertainment company that has brought 35 large-scale shows to life—20 of which are still in operation. The company, which celebrates its 30^th anniversary in June 2014, has brought wonder and delight to close to 150 million spectators in more than 300 cities on six continents. Cirque du Soleil has close to 4,000 employees, including 1,300 performing artists from close to 50 different countries.

::Date-Night Tuesday:: #makeupmonday

If you know me, you know that I am not much of a make-up kinda Momma. At all. Ever. I am more of a "let's get dressed and out the door before we regret this" kinda person. When I first had my children I would ruin my possible days of being out and about by stressing over how "perfect" we all had to look. Reality quickly set in as toddler-land grew and these days, we get it done, no matter what we look like. I realized that my kids and I will never please anyone with our "perfect" appearances. Therefore, we are who are and we attempt to step out in style every once in a while but for the most part we are a normal, everyday Mexican looking family. We are okay with this, really! 

This past Friday the Hubby and I decided to have date-night for a friends 50th birthday dinner. My Momma was going to come over after work and help us out with the kids. She is the best Mexican GranMa ever, she did my laundry and cleaned my kitchen by the time we got back. She arrived at my house that night and I had not had a chance to get the kids dinner, so I ran out to the grocery store. In thinking of getting ready for that night I remembered that I have a 3 year old daughter who thinks she works for M-A-C at the mall. Needless to say, I no longer own eye shadow brushes, lipstick or mascara. 

While at the grocery store that night I decided to buy some new make-up, yes grocery store! Kroger to be exact, I know some fancy make-up lady is pulling her hair out right now. But, I think I did pretty good and I only paid about $14. I am a pretty practical Momma and very low-maintenance. I think this is the first mascara and lipstick I buy in about 3 years.

I bought the following:

Eyeshadow Brushes (Kroger brand) $5.99
Mascara (Cover Girl) $3.99
Lipstick/Lipgloss (Cover Girl) $3.49

and this was the result; probably NOT the best picture of me that night but it's all I have:

What about you? Where do you shop for make-up and what does your make-up bag look like?

{Anatomy of a Date Night} #latinosimparables

Marriage is a priority in my life. The Hubby and I have been together since 1999. We were young. It's been a while. We now have kids. Toddlers to be exact. A 3 1/2 year old and a Two year old. I mention that a lot. They are only 18 months apart. In our defense we were getting older and we didn't want to miss out on having kids. So, we had two, back to back. It's been the biggest Blessing of our life. It's been exhausting. It's been draining. It's been a truly unexpected journey which we didn't expect in our 30's! But, we survive every day more and more...we love our children and our life together. 

Through it all we both have degrees and pursuing our careers and dreams. Then there is every day life. People. Family. Extended Family. Friends. Etc. Etc. 

Marriage is OUR priority. In 2012, my Hubby graduated from college and  we had a series of events that started the realization that we needed adult time. Not just him and I but with friends and people who were living lives similar to ours. We started some date nights. But, it wasn't until December of last year that we realized how important date night was. It was then that my Hubby said; "Man. We need to do this once a month, at least! That's my New Year Resolution." Music to my ears. And, this man has delivered. 

We have made it a point to have a date night at least once a month, sometimes it happens twice and if we are lucky date night has occurred more than twice in a single month. ::insert happy dance here:: One of my great online friends; who I have met in person, wrote about date nights ::here::

{Gracias a Downy for making our date night a memorable one at the #LatinosImparables Jesse & Joy concert!}

Today, I want to establish what needs to happen in our home for a date night to happen...successfully:

First; we must establish WAY far in advanced a date and/or event. We have been to Birthday Dinners, Weddings, the Theater, Company Parties, Happy Hours, Concerts, Our own Anniversary Dinner, and yes even Church, did I mention Target, every date counts....we make no exceptions or excuses. 

Then; we must find a willing soul who would freely {Did I mention, FREELY} like to take on the task of dealing with not one but DOS {2} toddlers named Cami and Santi.  The Baby-sitter! Usually my Momma. She is the best. And, they love her which makes for an easy escape. Minimal tears=Carefree Momma; kind of! I still worry and the Hubby worries more... at the end of the night we end up showing every cell phone picture of our kids to everyone in the room even strangers. They must know how great our kids are. 

We must then figure our logistics. Time frames, pick up/ drop off locations, number involved in party, and supplies needed to care for the party of two and how we will get ready/ meet up and what time we should leave to our event. Trust me coordination and communication is key in operation "Let's Get this Party Started". I may think of hiring a helicopter in the future, just sayin'...

Finally, we make our great escape into adult land and start our night.   

Sound simple enough? Sure, it may seem simple on paper, but it's taken us a little practice and time to get our act together!  We have both placed the same effort into every outing which makes for a very successful and fun night! 

What about you; how do your date nights usually go?  

{Sybil} Guest Blogger

Three Times a Mommy: Do you date your husband? Reasons why you should!

It goes without saying that our children are the most precious beings in our lives. Like I tell my three kids, they are my hearts and "can we live without our heart? No." So just like I can't live without my heart, I can't live without them. And the most important job I have in this world, is to make sure that these three beautiful beings God blessed me with are happy, healthy and safe. 

Yes. This is why, outside of work, you'll find three gorgeous children by my side. However, just like it is important to care for these treasures in our lives, it is important to also take care of and nurture our relationship with our other half.

Just like work, parenthood can also drain our energies. Now being a parent is the most fulfilling role we have, but we are human and its okay to sometimes take time away so that we can focus on us -mommy and daddy- and focus on our relationship. 

The everyday routine of working, chores and caregiving -although always hectic- can also be monotonous. It can be boring, stressful and aggravating but there's no way around it (unless you got money).

For this reason, make sure to take time to ask your husband on a date. Go to the movies, go out for dinner, even just spending a night at home with takeout and a rented movie. This will give you the opportunity to reconnect, to talk about what's going on at work, what's new in our life, etc. 

Make sure to spend time talking about good old times, what's in store for the future and, what the plans are for the following week. This time should be about regrouping and making sure you are on the same page.

Marriage is love but it is also work and communication. If you just let it be then it will run the risk of that love and passion you had just slowly fading away. Make time to date your husband. Just because we are married doesn't mean we have to give up on dating and spending quality time together.

{About Sybil}

Sybil is an aspiring Houston Latina blogger. When not hesitating to write for herself, you will find her writing and producing for a local Spanish television station’s Community Affairs Department, where she has been since August 2003. Sybil graduated in May 2003 from the University of St. Thomas with a Bachelor’s in Communications and Spanish, minor in Theology.  Sybil is the mother of three beautiful children and wife of Francisco Sánchez.

You can read more from her on her {Blog} at: www.sybilblog.wordpress.com 

{Follow her on} 

Twitter @sybil_sanchez 

Instagram @sybil_sanchez

LinkedIn Sybil Moncivais Sanchez

Target DATE!

Date night for the Hubby and I are almost non-existent.....any chance we get to take a little break or for some time alone... we take it. Don't get me wrong...we LOVE our kids with ALL of our hearts. But, a little time away is always appreciated, to re-group, to talk and to just be Husband and Wife.

Today we definitely took advantage of an afternoon nap.

We had breakfast at our home with family and by 2pm everyone was tired. Before we knew it everyone was asleep....My Sister and her son where here as well... so we made a mad dash for the door not before asking my Sis' if she minded staying with the kids..everyone was asleep!

So, the Hubby and I left... to Target... we shopped for a new phone {to upgrade the Hubby} and a T.V.{which my son broke, he breaks a lot of things... #boys}...it was fun...I also looked at toys for possible Christmas gifts..the afternoon was perfect!

I also had a great picture of my Sister asleep but she did watch the kids so I don't want her mad at me! Ha!!

{Date Night} ♥ Anniversary Edition

It's been 13 years; the Hubby and I, know each other....pretty well. We started off as "my cousins friend" and the "cousin who just moved here from the valley". Although my Husband says it started way earlier than the college years... He was my Cousin's Best Friend still is {we are Compadres to this day}... I was the cousin who would visit Houston from the Valley...South Texas to be exact... Mission. When I was about 15, Ricardo was about 17 my cousins, my siblings and myself went to the apartments Ricardo lived in with his family to swim, they had the "better pool". I maybe, glanced at him and said Hello. I was 15. I was really a whatever kind of girl, much like now. 3 years later I came to Houston to start college, I was 18; Ricardo was about to be 20.  

His family and friends called him "Flaco", he was a good ol' Mexican kid from the Southwest side of Houston, 19 years old and pretty cute. All I wanted to do was study and have no life, I wasn't too keen on guys and whatever it was their idea of fun was. My Momma taught me to keep in line and walk the path.... or else...she'd warned me about boys like Ricardo..... I listened to her and then followed my heart....

13 years later here we are. Married. College Graduates. With DOS {two} amazing little Blessings from up above.

We love. We work hard. And, we've learned to listen, care and respect one another very much. Yes, we argue. Some days A LOT. No we are NOT perfect by any means. I love him and he loves me. We tell each other things that we don't mean and then we forgive one another and remember that God has brought us to this very place on earth in our lives. We pray. We praise and we Thank God every day for all the little Blessings and the big struggles that have made us the individuals and family that we are today.

These days our family has a busy schedule, most days very busy. We lead some pretty busy lives. It's not exactly how we planned it but at the end of the day it's where we had planned to be with a little bit of faith and hard work. Together.

We have been a bit well busy lately. Still, I constantly speak of non-existent date nights. My Husband will say to the kids; "Momma and Daddy need some alone time." To which Camila smiles and nods and Santiago says; "no" and then laughs nervously.

With our busy schedules and our beautiful kids who deserve all of our undivided attention we rarely make time for us. The week of Ricardo's graduation was a rare one we got TWO nights to ourselves...with friends. It was nice. Really nice.  I do think though that a night out on the town...ALONE was long overdue.

Just to catch up and refresh. It's always nice.

So, what kind of a date night did we dream up.....

Dinner and some fancy drinks....the grown up kind! Then a Rock'en' Español concert.... Cafe Tacuba to be exact.... "Eres...." On this night the possibilities were endless...and bedtime was right around the corner. By 9pm we wanted to go home and when 3am hit we were, well exhausted and a bit delirious. To be out so late who does that kind of thing....oh wait...we used to...a  long time ago... when we were young and had no little ones to run after and be responsible for. It was amazing fun and a great night spent, laughing with friends, dancing and just having some genuine grown up fun! We celebrated and we conquered! We were parents and then we crashed out at my Momma's house...

We were determined. We accomplished a date night. Alone. For our 6th year Wedding Anniversary {13th year together-versary!}.

Happy Anniversary to the man that I can't live with and I would not know how to live without. It's been a lifetime and an amazing ride... it's been a Blessed time and happy love. I couldn't have asked for a better person to spend the good, the bad and the ugly with for the rest of the days that God has planned for us.

Team Gomez in the making....

{Houston...we have un problemo!} Literally.

So, my 365 project has been temporarily compromised..... I need a backup camera in 2012....

You see wha'ha'happen was?

The battery on my camera died on me...all the way dead, and my charger was on the other side of Houston at my Momma's casa. Ahii. I will get my charger today...catch up on my pictures and post for my 365 project and move forward with what has literally started off as a VERY productive and positive year! I can't wait for the rest of 2012 because I am thinking MORE and MORE as the days go by that this is really going to be a GREAT year! Why wouldn't it be huh?!

We had  a GREAT weekend... had a little Momma guilt Saturday night. I still can't manage to go out on date nights with the Hubby without feeling like a horrible Momma! It's hard. I know, I am probably being a little over dramatic but I couldn't have a good time without thinking that my kids were at their Ma-Maw's home without us but God always has a way of making us feel more at ease...

We went out for a friends birthday, my friend has four lovely girls and of course we started talking about them and sharing pictures and the other couple sitting with us...also three lovely children..so guess what, we talked about our kids and felt a lot better about being out and having fun but also being able to incorporate our kids who we ABSO-MUCHO LOVE!

It's Monday... YAY! ::totally NOT being sarcastic:: I really do love Monday's! But, it's gloomy here in Houston..I think some tornado's actually made land fall this morning... Any way!

Oh yes and this whole Identity Crisis series has started off a little more difficult than I expected!!! Wow. I really have to put some thought into that one...

Also, I AM SOOO LOVING JON ACUFF. He is sooo awesome !

Lovely and Blessed week to EVERYONE in Bloggy~Land and away!!!