::Things to consider when making Big Decisions::

A couple of weeks ago I received an email, one that I truly wasn't expecting. I was accepted to participate in the Mujeres de HACE, Women in Leadership program. While it was a huge honor and I felt overwhelmed and excited. There would be a cost for the program. I immediately wrote it off as, "it's not gonna happen" but then I "placed it out in the universe" and the magic began. Through a facebook post, I expressed my feelings and concerns. I received so many comments and so much encouragement that I began to think, this might just happen! 

{Only a few of  the 33 comments, full post here.}

After seeing the awesome facebook feedback, I thought, I need to go home and really talk to my Husband and see what he thinks. I sent him the email I received for him to review, he is the logic and financial person in our relationship. I thought, he won't see the value, he will think it's a waste of my money, he will write it off as "eh do you really want to do this?" and I will be persuaded to move on. That didn't happen at all. I came home, asked my Husband, what do you think? He began to tell me how it would be a relevant program, and that it would be up to me, if I wanted to do it, then go for it. Not what I expected. 

Then I asked HACE for types of payment options I had for the program and the wonderful administrative team suggested I ask my employer and sent me a letter to ask them for possible funding. I was a bit intimidated having only been at my company for about 9 months but moved forward. And, I've received good, positive feedback from my manager. I am still waiting on higher-ups to decide if they can help but still, I had the faith and courage to ask and I feel that's the first step to success. Plus my co-worker and immediate managers' response was so supportive I felt so good about having asked. 

With this experience I know will come great responsibility but as always I want to share this journey with all the Momma's that read my blog and seek to be inspired. 

What have I learned so far? Well, you must... 

::Claim your ticket:: 

Opportunities come to you for a reason, whether expected or not we should claim our tickets and figure out what we need to do to succeed in those opportunities. Sure, you should weigh out the pros and cons but know that this is yours, and you deserve it! Claim it! Speak it into existence and have faith that you will find your way.  Somebody once told  me, "Connie if this is for you, it's already yours." Those words have been with me for years... because it's true. Anything that is truly and genuinely meant for you, is already written into your future, you just have to take it and run! 

::Take Care of You::

The same night that I talked to my Hubby about this program was the same night of the new show 'Strong'. One of the contests said that same old story of mommas everywhere... "I became too invested in caring for others, that I often forget to take care of myself." After I cried my face out, I thought, this program is all about taking care of ME. As a Momma with a career and who wants to be a certain example for her family and most importantly for my daughter, I must take care of me! No more putting ourselves on the back burner... because you will be burned out. 

::Invest in You::

Just like a well-oiled business, your are a brand and a business for your company, you must invest in bettering yourself and learning more for the benefit of everyone. Sure it can seem like a lot of time and money but in the long run, it's so worth it. Spending on yourself isn't only about clothes and shoes, it's also about feeding your mind and motivating your soul. I am sure we can find "better" things to spend our money on but we can also waste it on those things that have no real value, so why not invest in yourself. You must put a little effort into being a better you, even if it costs you. 

::Own It::

Not like "Yay, I did it" but YES, this is mine and I will slay! You know that moment Beyonce walks on stage and you know she is gonna be a badass, well she knew that before taking the first step onto that stage. That natural vibe of certainty is where you want to be. That confidence that yes, THIS IS MINE. I deserve it, I will own it and I will be a badass. It's already yours if you are sitting in the moment and experience, no one can take it from you and don't allow the outside world to take it from you. It's none of their business, it's yours! 

::Fully Commit:: 

There is nothing that hurts me more than people who are like yes, I can and will do this but then a few days later they have more important commitments or other priorities. I know things happen and people's lives change from one second to another, but if you have been accepted into a certain path, why not fully commit? Why not erase self-doubt and stop making excuses? Just like we have made sacrifices, invested money and weighed out the good and the bad to accept the opportunity; those people presenting us with the opportunity have done the same. They have fit you into their schedule so why not commit to doing the same for them? So yes, please fully commit to those things that will be beneficial to your well-being and in the long wrong to your overall quality of life. 

::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

:: First Day of School:: #Non-Traditional

The first day of school happened.

I was a complete and total mess. I never know how emotions will catch me, and this first day of school was brutal. 

But, guess what? We survived. And, my kids are now in full school mode. You know driving a new set of teacher semi-crazy, I really wish I could say my kids were perfect angels, but I don't lie. I am sure they are good kids but perfect, nah.

Santiago and Camila are social kids, I am sure that can't be good for any teacher to hear but I know they both have great and VERY patient teachers. My Husband and I are working hard to keep on track with everything they need and support the teaching staff as much as possible.

They are quickly gaining new friendships and creating new memories. I knew that this school year would not be easy. I would hope that my kids could just work hard and stay focused, but we did know where the struggles would be and come. The year is young, and hopefully we can remain and regain focus. 

We have joined the PTO, school committees and parent nights. Yes, we are those parents. We truly vow to stay connected and be as active as possible in our children's education. Not just for our own peace of mind but I am sure it will be helpful in big ways to our kids. To their, well-being and their growth and education. Plus, we will be better connected to what they do, OR don't do! Santiago is catching on that his teacher sends me notes in his backpack everyday. I have an eye on him at all times.

To a successful school year to all the young, and not so young entering a new school year. May it be filled with good and positive life experiences as well as mental and educational value. I hope everyone is safe and healthy. May you maintain perfect attendance and stay far away from trouble.

#ad #edu Early Education is Important to our Family #TheStoryOfEmma #CollectiveBias

::Momma Disclosure:: {This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #TheStoryOfEmma #CollectiveBias}

I want to share with you a cause that is near and dear to my heart. Thanks to #CollectiveBias for allowing me to share this campaign,#TheStoryOfEmma with the Momma of Dos Readers. With this I ask that you please watch and share the following short 3-minute video; it's the story of how a young girl reaches her goals and finds success through the sacrifices made by her parents and their decision to create a better future for their daughter. Mi Escuelita gave her the educational boost she needed to help her succeed. While the story is fictional, its inspiring message is representative of the children who are positively impacted by a Mi Escuelita education. Here is The Story of Emma:

 
The Story of Emma from Mi Escuelita on Vimeo.

My parents came to the U.S. in the early 80’s, 1981 to be exact. The year I was born. Immigration was a resource and an option. My parents knew that as a young couple they couldn't provide properly for their now forming family if they stayed in Mexico. My parents became U.S. residents with the amnesty in the 80’s.

We migrated for years where the work took my Dad. Our family grew as well. 4 kids. In the mid-1990’s my parents decided that the traveling was no longer good for us. Our family needed stability, they opted for  living in a small border town called Mission, Texas. Thanks to programs similar to Mi Escuelita in the rural town my Momma had all the resources she needed to help us get ahead. They wouldn't realize what they would do for us as far as receiving a good education early on until our later years when college was an attained dream.  

Because nothing in this life comes easy, my parents instilled in us, education and of course hard work. An education that their parents couldn't afford for them. My Momma the oldest child in her family worked at an early age to help provide for her family. My Dad was in the middle somewhere of his family and really didn't get to go to school either. Both my parents had good trades to survive in Mexico but when it came to following the American Dream they were not sure how they would do it, eventually they dared to and attained success for their children.

With their hard-work and sacrifices made, they provided their family with a home, food and dreams. My Sister and I graduated from the University of Houston. I graduated in 2005 and my Sister followed in 2007. One of my brothers graduated from the Culinary Institute here in Houston and now lives and works as a chef in Arkansas. My younger brother is still working on what he wants to be.

Fast forward to the education my children are currently obtaining. As parents who know the importance of an education. We knew we wanted our children in an early education program even before they started public or private school. My children currently attend an early education Christian academy and it's always a proud moment and achievement to have your son recite entire prayers from memory or lines from his plays at the age of 3 1/2 or now at 5. He also counts to 30 in both Spanish and English. I believe in the power of having a great education and taking full advantage of those resources. 

Personally I knew college was my dream and a goal I wanted to reach. We now tell our children that through hard work and an education they to can be anyone they want to be...even the future President of the United States. 

What is Mi Escuelita "My {Little} School" and how can you help?

“Mi Escuelita Preschool Inc. teaches English to children from all cultures and prepares them for academic success. A 501(c) (3) non-profit organization with five locations in Dallas, Texas, Mi Escuelita provides a unique service to low-income families with children considered to be “at- risk.” While remaining strongly dedicated to the preservation of each child’s cultural heritage, Mi Escuelita’s primary focus is to provide a safe, secure and nurturing environment where non- English speaking children of preschool age are taught the English language, pre-reading, literacy, and social skills necessary to have a successful experience in both school and life. Visit http://miescuelita.org/” 

I believe in this cause and I hope that you too can find value in what an early education is doing for the children in the program. It not only provides an educational service for the young children who attend but also a wonderful fountain of resources for the parents. Parents that like myself want their children to have an early education in order to create a better future for them! Mi Escuelita is giving these children and their families the opportunity to reach the American Dream, success. 

http://bit.ly/storyofemma

Join us for #TheStoryOfEmma #LATISM Twitter Party on Thursday, December 11, 2014 at 9:00pm. @LATISM and @ColectivaLatina will be joining forces to support of the Mi Escuelita campaign and create awareness about #TheStoryOfEmma. 5 prizes of $50 gift card + $50 donation to Mi Escuelita in winner’s name will be awarded during the twitter party. PLEASE RSVP HERE: http://cbi.as/qe2ds

Also Tweet the following to help support the campaign: RT to donate $1! I am investing in #Latino children: lets make success stories like #TheStoryOfEmma a reality http://t.co/Pksh0tGGOz

::Seeking::

A while back I set out to find my "Dream Job", because despite what my situation is right now, I have faith that, that place is still out there for me. I have since found a job. A good job but not what I would consider ideal. I know, "Connie you are so picky and such a non-conformist!" Trust me, I often question my own credibility. I wonder if maybe it's true, it's not the environment but rather me, who has a problem. I am never happy, so my Hubby says.

Is that such a bad thing? 

I mean really. I have been to so many places and  I have come so far. I went to college. Should be, 'nuff said. But, then there is this long history of paid work and un-paid work or volunteering. I mean. Not to toot my own horn, but I have been told that my background is pretty darn impressive and I am proud of that. As a Woman, as a Mexican-American and now as a Momma; I am very proud of my education and work history. Even my un-successful time as a Stay-at-Home-Momma which I failed at miserably, but that's a whole other post in itself. Trust me when I say..having kids and staying home is NOT for everyone! Yes, it has it's rewards and pro's but still not for everyone.

So, in further seeking I continue on this path of applications and interviews. And, I am once again haunted by that question; where do you see yourself in 5 years? Which to me translates into what is the perfect job for you and what do you want from this current situation? As one person put it; "I want to sit on a beach and drink margarita's all day and get paid for it." Really, come on, who the heck wouldn't but since that may or may not be an option for me I am not only determined but involved in seeking that perfect job, that perfect place. Just the other day I had an interview; when the manager spoke to me, she had LIFE.  When someone has true passion and purpose, you can see it in their face through their determination. You can hear it in their voice through their story and their words. And, they inspire you to do more and motivate you to live beyond what you think is normal.

That is where I see myself in 5 years. I challenge myself to live beyond what I think is normal and fitting not only for my well-being, financial stability and mental growth but what I deem a position that my children can look up to and be proud of. Yes, they should and can be proud of my accomplishments until now but I am not a conformist remember. I don't like to settle. I never have. If I did, I wouldn't have left a small town in 1999, to become a city girl. If I did I would have allowed the stereotypes and what-if's to consume me.  If I settled I wouldn't be a home-owner and drive an SUV. {Not bragging, just sayin'... Si se puede!} And, because I have SO much more to prove not to anyone but myself, I seek.

That passion. That job. And, that determination.

What about you? Are you a constant seeker? I know I am.

{Developing Language & an Imagination} #hasbro #latism12 #LATISM

Last week the kids and I patiently waited a couple of days while we received our very first package with contents to be reviewed..literally. Ha.

The package arrived before Thanksgiving but with all the hustle and bustle I was unable to open it. But, as we ate breakfast and played with the kids Sunday morning, I decided that we would open the box and see the kids reaction.

So, we opened the box.

This is what came from it:

We received the Baby Alive Baby All Gone doll and the Poppin'Park Learn n'Pop Lion from Hasbro.

Source: Provided by Marketing Representative

{BABY ALIVE BABY ALL GONE Doll

(HASBRO/Ages 3 & up/Approx. Retail Price $24.99/Available: Fall 12)

It’s snack time for your BABY ALIVE BABY ALL GONE doll and she’s hungry for strawberry yogurt! Put the yogurt in the spoon and “feed” it to your adorable little baby to watch her “eat” it all up. If baby is still hungry after her snack, she’ll call for her mommy to feed her more with sayings like “Strawberries are yummy!” and “Where did it go?” When it is time for a drink, the BABY ALIVE BABY ALL GONE doll can be fed from her bottle, and her milk will magically      disappear. Since there’s no mess to clean up, you can cuddle and play with your little one right away! Requires 2 “AAA” batteries, included.  Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.}

 

Source: Provided by Marketing Representative

{LEARN ‘n pop lion

(PLAYSKOOL/Ages 9 months & up/Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Fall ‘12)

This adorable lion is a playful grow-with-me toy that helps little ones develop fine motor skills and learn to count to ten in four different languages – English, Spanish, French and Mandarin Chinese. Babies can drop balls into the lion’s belly from the side and push down on the tail to activate music and lights as the colorful balls bounce out of the lion’s belly to encourage chasing. As babies grow, they can feed the balls into the lion’s mouth and hear him count up to ten in four different languages.  Toddler is rewarded with lights and sounds as she counts along! Includes three POPPIN’ PARK balls and an easy-carry handle for on the go fun! Requires two AA batteries, included. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.}

Both Baby All Gone and Learn N'Pop Lion are Bilingual and the kids had so much fun listening to {& learning} everything they said in BOTH Spanish and English. My son was so thrilled for the rest of the afternoon he went around saying... "ENGLISH:ESPAÑOL! HOLA!" when he would switch between the two languages. The Lion counts in Spanish, English and French! Santi is learning his numbers so this is helping to reinforce what he has already learned! Plus he is also learning the numbers in Spanish so again the Lion is a big help in that area!

It's pretty interesting to watch him speak both languages. He has been a late bloomer as far as language goes; plus having to learn two languages has made this milestone a little difficult to reach. His vocabulary is very ample now and with toys that allow for bilingual learning like the ones provided to us from Hasbro, I think he will love learning in both ENGLISH and ESPAÑOL! Ha.

Cami on the other had was quickly transformed. There is something about little girls and baby dolls that just instantly turns them into the most caring little Momma's. Cami spent the rest of the afternoon reading, feeding and changing "her baby". She loves her Baby All Gone doll! And, she too spent the afternoon saying..."pa-tanos", "rico-sh"! Ha. It's been fun! 

Both toys are very much age appropriate and effective learning tools. I think. I would definitely place these items on my children's Christmas wish list. They would also make great gifts for toddlers who are learning to speak and more importantly who are learning both Spanish and English. If you have toddlers who are learning both languages I highly recommend  these toys they are very effective and child safe. I loved them and the kids loved them too.    

Before I had children I never even thought about this type of toy but now that I do, I am in love. Do you know of any good toys that will help your children both learn a second language and develop a good sense of imagination? If so share! I would love to know!

Momma Disclosure: This is not a compensated post. However complimentary Hasbro products were provided through a representative for the purpose of producing this review. The above statements are both my true and honest opinion.

No. Really. Thanksgiving is next week!

No, REALLY. Thanksgiving is next week....

I am NO where.near.being.ready.for.a.holiday!

Seriously. I have no clue what I will make. I have NO decorations up...Not sure why but I am not too bummed about that.

We have a very BIG family. My Hubby's family lives minutes away from us, while my family lives about an hour or so away in Downtown Houston. Before we had kids there was never a discussion, we could go to one house and then the next.... then came the grand-kids. The "discussion" was, where will we go first...well last year I decided to end that discussion and have the first ever Gomez/Leon Family Thanksgiving here in our home. It was awesome we had a lot of fun, too much food and lots to be Thankful for...this will be the second year!

Only this year..I am not sure why but my focus and brain are elsewhere...I want my children to have this family sense of Thanksgiving and realize that we are thankful and should be thankful that we have two amazing families that  want to spend the Holiday's with us, together! But, I don't know why I am also thinking that less is more this year...in part because I don't have a full-time outside the home job right now,  for the first time in the last 6 years.....

I want my children to value being humble and poor in spirit as well as family and feasting. Tomorrow we will celebrate Thanksgiving with Santi at his school, our FIRST time ever and for some reason...I have a feeling that, that moment will count for many Thanksgiving to come...

The creation and Blessing of our own little family...Team Gomez ::party of FOUR:: has been more than enough for me and any added Blessings are well...just that....added Blessings. 

I don't want my children to think that Thanksgiving is only about the super yummy food you get to eat ::just sayin':: but also about being Thankful that we have the food... and that we are able to share our table with loved ones.

I pray that God can help me portray this and convey it in a manner that my children can understand not just this year but years to come....

We have SO much to be Thankful for this year... and I just hope everyone who has helped us get here to this place, realizes how much we appreciate them! And, yes...how very Thankful we are to have them in our lives.... {Ignore my funny smile face in the picture below... the day was super sunny!} Ha.

{Liar-Liar!} Ha. & Giveaway Winner!!!

Ok, Ok! So, I lied!!! Ha. Last night I was so into the moment that I stated that I had ONLY missed ONE post so far...I have missed TWO!!! Oyi. Ha.

Reactions and Results is what today has been filled with, my family and I have since slept and started our day, like every other day, like every other week, like every other month....like every other year.

I don't think we should allow the outcome from last night determine the new path that life will take us through and instead be Thankful that God has Blessed us with a new day at all, with new outcomes and results that will be all our own...

My respect to everyone who went out and voted.... my love for my country and my heritage and my WHOOOP-WHOOOP! Shout out to President Obama, whom in the next FOUR years I want to make a point to personally meet! How? I don't know just yet. But, I am stating this today...as a Momma, as a Wife, as a Sister, a Daughter, a College Graduate, a HARD WORKING EMPLOYEE {of my home these days}, I think I owe it to myself to DREAM just as Big as the man we have named President for 2 terms... and I am taken back to that very epic and DREAM filled speech that led to an epic and DREAM filled speech last night..no matter who, what, where and when.... KNOW THAT YOU ARE THE PERSON IN CHARGE OF YOUR DREAMS AND YOUR FUTURE....No one else can dictate that...No one else can determine that...if you are where you are today...it's because of YOUR hard work and effort.... we can't place blame on anyone else... we much embrace and accept.

::END EPIC PART OF POST::

Giveaway WINNER is!!!! DRUM-ROLL PLEASE!!!

Melissa Libertad from Painting Mariposas in the Sky; In order to claim your prize please e-mail this Momma at: mommaofdos@gmail.com

The necklace was $3.50...as seen below and Ms. Libertad stated that it was $3.99 which makes her the closest guess at 49 cents off!!!

Thank you for playing!!! Huge Texas sized Momma Congrats to you!!!! Don't forget to contact me to get you your prize!!!! 



                                             ::INSERT SHAMELESS PLUG HERE::
On another note... a few weeks back my FB page hit 200 likes..and I sent out this cute little card to the happy 200th reader.... I framed it and mailed it....I loved the card!!!! Had to do it... 

{Dia de Los Muertos} Culture Experience

When I was younger I remember building an altar around the tombs of our family members who were no longer with us. We would lay out picture of us with them and their favorite foods in their honor. Our belief was that on the Day of the Dead, their souls would come back to be amongst us and to enjoy our offerings. We would gather late at night and say a rosary in their remembrance, bring them flowers and celebrate their lives as we remembered them here on earth.

As a young child or teen I didn't think anything of it and wasn't even scared to participate in this late night stroll through the rundown cemeteries in Reynosa.  It wasn't just a tradition, it was part of our everyday. My Grandfather always says.... "no le tengas miedo a los muertos, te le mas miedo a los vivos...."

It's these small memories that make me who I am....it's these small memories that I want to pass on to my children... but like most people I am a visual person and I have a feeling my kids will be like that as well. Which is why I want to every year build on what they see and experience. If we can't go to Mexico then I want to bring Mexico to them. Huge? No, just some effort! I realize that the only way that our culture will not be lost in their generation is by making these small connections to big traditions.

This year I decided that we would start our Holiday's off by learning what a Dia de los Muertos altar was. So, I took my kids to see the beautiful exhibits over at Meca, here in Houston. It was small step for this Momma pero un paso mas hace nuestras tradiciones.

We had fun! See for yourself.....

{The Beautiful young lady in the picture was my lovely assistant for the day...her name is Erica and she is my Hubby's cousin. I love familia!}