::La Virgen de Guadalupe ~ Empress of the Americas:: #ad #HMNS

::Momma Disclosure:: This is a compensated post. All opinions expressed are true and my own. 

I didn't know what to expect as we embarked on our Saturday morning adventure to the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Let me start off with, if you have never been to the museum, plan to visit several times as you will need them to fully take in everything it has to offer. With the purchase of the temporary exhibits, you obtain access to all the permanent exhibits and free special exhibits. But, taking on the task of visiting them all and being fully immersed in each one, is a longs day work. We spent at least 4 hours there and we feel like we have to go back at least 2 or 3 more times to fully appreciate all the learning and beauty of each exhibit. The amount of detail and information in each exhibit is wonderful. Especially for young families who's children are absorbing all the information for the first time. 

We arrived about mid-day on Saturday and then planned to make our way slowly to the main exhibit we were there to see, La Virgen de Guadalupe. Time went by so fast, we had to speed through some of the other exhibits and then made it to the section where La Virgen was exhibited. It goes without saying that since I grew up in a Mexican Catholic family, La Virgen de Gualdape or La Virgen Morena means so much to me.

::Sentimental Value of my Visit::

Years ago I was told I might not be able to have children, after several tumor diagnosis and surgeries. All tumors and cysts though benign still could have caused reproductive damage, due to medications I had taken and scar tissue formed after 3 surgeries prior to becoming pregnant. As a Catholic I turned to my faith a lot in my early 20's petitioning to the Virgen to watch over me in years to come and as I tried to grow our family.

Fast forward to 2009, I became pregnant with my son. I had so much to be thankful for and prayed to the Virgen that one day I would visit her at her altar in Mexico City as a form of expressing my gratitude. In 2011 I became pregnant again, another moment of complete gratitude all of which I attribute fully to my faith. I am yet to make the trip to Mexico city but seeing the beautiful replica at the HMNS this weekend has inspired me to attempt to make that trip in this lifetime. I have so much to be thankful for and a lot of which I have prayed for in past years.

::History & Representation of La Virgen in Mexico::

The setting for this astonishing appearance begins in the outskirts of Mexico City in December of 1531. The accounts tell of a humble, indigenous Campesino or peasant, who spoke Nahuatl his name, Juan Diego. He stated that  he was asked by a beautiful young woman surrounded by light, La Virgen de Guadalupe, to build a church in her honor at the top of the Tepeyac hill. In this place, there was once an Aztec temple built for the goodness Tonantzin.

Of course, when Juan Diego approached the Spanish archbishop, Juan de Zumarraga, he didn't believe him.  After several failed attempts to relay the message to the bishop, Juan Diego was asked to bring back Rosas de Castilla, as proof of a miracle that he, in fact, was seeing the Virgen on the Tepeyac hill. Uncertain that he would obtain these Juan Diego returned to the site of the apparition. The hill was barren and the roses were not native to Mexico. But, to his surprise when he returned to the site where he had seen the beautiful Virgen, there were flowers. He cut them and gathered them in his cloak and quickly returned to the bishop. When he arrived and opened his cloak to reveal the roses, the Bishop witnessed not one but two beautiful miracles. As the flowers fell to the floor the vivid imagine of La Virgen de Guadalupe imprinted on Juan Diego's cloak was revealed.

The church which began as a chapel was built soon after. It came with much speculation, controversy, and resistance. Once formed those who followed the Bishop were said to be part of a cult. In years to come, the church would grow and "accept" the miracle as truth that many now live for. The cloak has been examined by various museum historians and artifact researchers, most of the findings have been released. But, still to this day the beautiful mystery of how Juan Diego was chosen, why the miracle happened and what we as Catholics believe in, still lies in a glorious cloak that is displayed in Mexico city.

::The exhibit and it's presentation at the HMNS::

I didn't know what to expect as far as the exhibit was concerned. But, I loved the setup. It starts you off with the history of the miracle and appearances with much, much more detailed than I could express here.  It leads you into a chapel, where you are allowed to take pictures. The quiet, dimly lit room gives you so much peace and serenity. It's hard not to fall to your knees and pray or simply admire La Virgen and her beautiful face. Once you have marveled into the eyes of the light. You are lead into a room where the most colorfully beautiful art pieces made of cloth, clay, yarn, gold, paint, and lots of lentejuela or sequins are displayed. You cannot take pictures in this area, which is why you MUST visit the HMNS, between now and September when the exhibit will be taken down.

Visit the HMNS website and my previous post for more details.

   Picture Credit: My Sister in Law took this one in the HMNS store, I loved it! 

::Houston Museum of Natural Science:: La Virgen de Guadalupe #ad

::momma disclosure:: this is a compensated post. all opinions expressed are my own.

"La Virgen de Guadalupe ha sido un símbolo de esperanza, protección y consuelo para sus seguidores por casi 500 años, pero ¿por qué? ¿Qué tiene la virgen que ha inspirado a millones de personas en el continente americano? La virgen morena apareció ante Juan Diego en 1531 en un evento que no sólo le cambió su vida sino la de toda una nación. Hoy en día, su imagen representa un milagro y la identidad de una cultura. Revive su historia desde sus orígenes hasta el día de hoy en nuestra exposición."~HMNS 

Growing up my life revolved around traditions and most were created because of our religion. As my children continue to grow and learn about us as Mexican-Americans; who we are, where we come from and what we believe in, I want to expose them to cultural connections as much as possible. Which is why I am always seeking and thankful for exhibits, like the one currently being present at the Houston Museum of Natural Science about La Virgen de Guadalupe. 

A while back when my kids were little a man around my age, early 30's asked, why? Why I dressed my kids as Juan Diego and a Gudalupana? My answer was because of my culture and my roots and what I want my children to know about how I was raised. While I know that they will ultimately select their own path and religion, I don't want to lose the opportunity to teach them as much as I can about our culture, faith and identity as Mexicans in America.

While we might not always be active as Catholics, we still have our faith and beliefs. But, I feel that more than that, certain Mexican traditions are such an amazing part of history you just have to teach others about it. My kids might not always end up praying the rosary every night, but we honor our ancestors and respect where they come from and what they believe in.

If you have a chance to visit this amazing exhibit Momma of Dos has a special treat for you! Discount tickets, click on the link here and enter the following code- atom (just as shown, no caps) 

Nourish ::Your Soul::

The prompts for this months NaBloPoMo are about nourishing your body... a lot of great posts and great prompts.. and I decided to take it into a different direction because the word has new meaning to me.

When it comes to being Nourished. How do you seek to find a balance? As a Momma my daily feelings are often challenged.  I can be ecstatic and energetic one minute and wore down and drained the next, as a Woman, I struggle some days to keep that balance. Not because I am some of kind crazy ::or maybe:: but because we have so many situations, issues and tantrums coming our way that it tends to happen. 

"You are not alone. You are not crazy." It's what I wish I could hear more often but some days... I just know that most won't understand. I crave 5 minutes alone. In silence. Does it happen? Rarely. And, at times forced. I have to make this time for myself or else my daily feelings explode. On my children, on my Husband and sometimes on my friends or people close to me.

This past weekend I attended an event that has become a tradition with one of my close Yvonne from Running in Faith. Yvonne and I have a history together. A lifetime if you will. We rarely get to see one another even though we live in the same city. Very common, Houston is ginormous! She lives though on the opposite end of Houston. I live in Cypress/Katy and she lives in Pearland. When she invited me 3 years ago to go to the Women's Event at her church I didn't know that we would go every year since. But, we have. It's been great and we have invited friends along the way.

These events have taught me 3 things:

1) I crave being nourished; by the word of God and my faith. No matter what your faith or religion is, believing helps me be renewed and refreshed.

2) I get a BREAK! Attending an all Women's event once a year is GREAT! No children or Husbands; as much as we LOVE and adore and would do anything and everything for our families...a little break is much needed.

3) Seeking a connection. Finally. I am constantly seeking that connection. With the only other human beings that will understand me and have some real and honest advice. Women. It's amazing how great that connection can become.

::February:: #lovemonth

Can you believe it's February?! NO. Really. It's February!  

I don't even remember January and it was only 3 days ago. Just another sign that this year will go by fast!

I have a couple of Blog updates. I am seeking a designer to help me with a new logo I have in mind so stay tuned to some very awesome new changes. And, I am trying to keep up between Rodeo season here in Houston, home and work so I will try to write as much as possible this month!

I owe you a Parte Dos of the Blogger Q&A, working on those! I also have a yummy recipe in the works for our Friday Health/Fitness post.

Not sure if you read some of the ways I plan to keep sane, happy and in peace this year but one of them was and is more alone time with my Husband. Our first date night of the year was to a wedding last month it was FUN. Very appropriate. I think.

This past weekend a friend invited us to a Couples Dinner hosted by her church the theme was Intimacy, what an appropriate way to begin this month and to add another date night to 2014.

The topic at first seemed a bit intimidating  and we were intrigued as to how this would work in this type of setting but everyone was so extremely nice and their sincerity put us at ease. It was a great reminder that no matter how great of a marriage we have, we need to constantly work on our true Love for one another.

Not because we don't love one another, but because we do and we want to continue to grow not only as a couple but as individuals and remain in love as the years go by. It was a great night filled with fun memories and definitely eye opening thoughts about love, marriage and yes, sex.

It was quite the interesting session as the Pastor gave us a very honest insight into his own marriage and how he has overcome those barriers that were keeping him from having the marriage and life that God intended for him. Definitely a type of dinner that I would recommend for any couple seeking MORE out of their relationship with each other and with their faith.

How was your first weekend of the month? And, what type of LOVE plans do you have for February?

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.

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! 

{Dig Deeper} What the silence is teaching me....

I haven't always been a "person of faith" and still most days I fail at just about everything and in just about every area of my life... but one thing that I never give up on is seeking or as I have recently discovered... digging deeper. I seek faith and hope in everything because I know that those feelings come at the most unlikely times, from the most unexpected places and at times in the worse of situations.

With that said... the last few months I have been a Stay@HomeMomma and I think that some of the most difficult situations have come about....and for some reason... my ability to handle it all is slowly becoming less? Or maybe this is me becoming stronger? All I know is that for months I felt worn out and overly spent.

When I was in my 20's I fought many battles and looking back...I came out stronger than before...now in my 30's the battles are no longer visible but within. My life is good though. I don't worry about the outside world unless the outside world steps into my life... then it's on. Fighting the battles these days are taken on in a whole new way.... I am a firm believer of Prayer. Silent prayers. Or out-loud with tears... it's all I have most days...

If there is something that I have learned in the last few months as a Stay@HomeMomma is that I have/had little to no patience. You would think that as a Momma and wife I would have lots of it and maybe it's something that in the past I have taken for granted but my patience has I think grown. My "tolerance" of little everyday things has become heightened. I am more aware of the fact that I apparently am not as patient as I should be not just in general with life but as a Momma with two toddlers who love to run and never use their inside voice, as a Wife with a Hubby who works very hard outside the home, as a Friend who needs to be more supportive and encouraging, as a Job Seeker who needs to be reminded that the "dream job" is out there somewhere, as a Sister who needs to learn to just give when giving is impossible, as a Daughter who needs to love no matter what, and as a person of faith...who needs to DIG DEEPER. 

Lent is in full effect and as a person who loves to learn and grow... I have learned that you can never learn enough, and you can always GROW more. My life is NOT perfect, it's far from it. My life is not simple, it's chaos. My heart though is yearning... to dig deeper. 

The silence is great but the lessons are being stored. In a heart, a soul and a brain that will one day, soon, burst... of light and sunshine onto not just her little home deep within but for the world to see. Just because I am silent doesn't mean I am not learning, growing and yes....digging deeper.... 

"I refuse to be limited and I refuse to remain unchanged. I am indeed... changing... deep within... observing and learning.... "~Momma of Dos

{A lot of Faith} ♥

Yesterday my Sister said to me...."if it's meant to be then it will be."

So simple.

So true.

Truth.

Something I am SURE I have said to her many times or to others who are seeking. But, why is it so hard to accept that right now? I have faith that whatever is meant to be these days will be. I keep busy and fill my calendar. With my goals and my purpose. Not worrying too much about what everyone else has going on or where everyone else is in their journey of seeking, I have been there....and yes..most times...done that. Right now it's time for this Momma to seek in a different manner. Not only a Dream job but MY dream for the next 30 years and my family's future.

Years ago when I first met my Hubby I don't think I imagined my life to become, so full of LIFE. Our kids are a Blessing. Such an awesome Blessing, that at one point I didn't know if it would ever be possible to have children. At 32, I can honestly say that I have lived my life and accomplished almost everything that I have set my mind to do, small or big. Sometimes walking away from God, so far ahead that I have to stop myself and be reminded that He has been my strength. But, in the midst of it all I have never lost sight of His Love, His Wisdom and His words; which live deep inside my heart. Deep inside my soul. I knew of God as a kid, I didn't know God until I was 24. 24. I am  now 31, 32 in June. Those things, situations or circumstances that I thought were a priority then, now sit on the back burner.

I have found myself, in many dark corners and through many heartfelt and horribly shed tears. But, through it all I have remained. In faith. In light. And, open to the possibilities ahead. So, why is it so hard to accept where I am right now? In this quiet place. Still. Married to a great and supportive Man who yes...puts up with all my crazy antics and blog posts, Ha. Ha. A Momma of DOS very active, very hyper, somewhat spoiled {ok, very SPOILED}, tantrum throwing and demanding children who never use their inside voice and who consume my every being in the best way possible; who are teaching me patience and about using my inside voice. {True story; my son asked me not to SPEAK SO LOUDLY,or yell, at him and to instead speak to him in a calm inside voice....convinced that he would listen to me, I tried it and he still doesn't listen to me, boys... Oyi.}

Be still.

Waiting.

It's hard for me.

But, I have faith.

I remain.

God knows when and how. 

And, no matter how difficult it is to be still...I pray for His peace and patience while He works on my prayers which I know He has heard very loud, dramatically and clear. {I am an active pray-er!} Ha. God sees my heart. He knows my heart. And, I pray that He can hear my heart.... shouting out to Him. In every way possible.

Psalm 46:10

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” 

{Evil} & Prayer

I like to think that my Blog is a happy and positive space where I can be Happy and Positive.

But, life is not so.

In general, I know what being Blessed and praying entails.

But, truth is.

I also know the opposite of that and it's not a happy or perfect place. I embrace life and all that comes with it. I have lived through the worse of my days,most people wouldn't even imagine it. Trust me, I don't live a fairytale life and darkness has lived in my heart....

I didn't get swept away by a knight in shinning armour into a "Happily Ever After" like zone... I was loved and cared for by my Husband who after 14 years has NEVER left my side...to this day we fight the battle together, with the help of God, never alone. We have come to be in this place, we were not born into peace and faith, we have learned to live this way... it's a place where we both find happiness and joy. A place where positivity reigns and life is abundant.


We have lived through some dark days... but we will overcome and Jesus will take us to that place... I am reminded of this awesome lyric from one of my favorite songs: "Then you look at this prisoner and say to me "son stop fighting a fight that's already been won""

 
The following is the first ever contribution from my Hubby to my Blog:

"Evil lurks and we stand near it. 
If faith is strong we shouldn't fear it. 
And, for those who choose to walk the devils path. 
They will answer & suffer God's wrath."

I personally Love it. 
But, it does come from my knight in shining armour. Husband and partner in life..so I have nothing ill to say... ever. 

{Band-Aides} & Election Night

My son is under the impression that a Band-Aid will fix everything. 

Will heal all. 

And, will protect him from pain. 

If only it were that easy. 

As an adult I know the truth. 

Truth which I can't allow to overwhelm me 

even on my worse days... 

Truth that one day will be Victory. 

Truth that is peace at times of chaos. 

Today. 

I pray that your band-aid is present. 

That your healer is truth and that God can create that 

peace that no physical band-aid can ever create. 

Truth is. 

God is my band-aid and HE is my Truth. 

I am not perfect.

But, still I know that 

He has never doubted me..

even though sometimes..

I have doubts about it all. 

I am attempting to do this whole writing a post a day thing for a whole month... 

I have only missed one day so far...and like with everything else in life...

I will NOT give up. 

I will not allow pain to over come or overwhelm...

and I will move forward no matter what. 

Oh yes, AND it's Election Night. 

Where was I, 4 years ago on Election Night, ::HERE::... ::HERE:: and then ::HERE:: and ::HERE:: .....

{Mid-Life Crisis} or Not...

I know who I am...

Cheesy beyond repair
Faithful without doubt
A little over confident
Dramatic; Fo'sho'
Talkie and Loved
Impatient
A Momma of Dos and Wife to One
Blessed
Loud and outspoken
Truthful and Bold
An Overthinker {this is getting better with age...}
A true friend
Gosspiy {workin' on it..LOTS!}
Loved
Forgiven
A hopeless romantic
An optimist with a dark side
Emo' at times
 Happy
A fatty girl who loves food {did I say LOVES food...cause I do}
a Dreamer of BIG HUGE dreams!
Someone with a Past {at times very sad}
A survivor at best
a Sharer
A storyteller
a  writer
a creator of crafts
A dancer at heart
giver
caregiver
provider
supporter
A Daughter
A Sister
a mover and shaker....
I make it happen...
no matter how hard it is to stand...I do
I am a defender of those people, places and situations that I think need me
I face reality and stand up for what I believe in.
I voice it all and leave nothing at rest
I am a pusher
I am a critic
I know I can be a nag
 A Believer
Jesus Follwer
Bible Reader

Trust me. 
I know who I am.


I am not sure what all my brain, heart and soul have been going through lately  but I do know that God has been hard at work...for months now... the clouds are clearing though and everything that was murky and dark are now looking bright and clear!
At least I think so....

How can it be that at 31 I still feel...lost? Am I am not where I want to be? Does life have more for me? Maybe I should stop while I am ahead....

But, seriously. If I feel this way at 31, I definitely don't want to feel lost at 41.
I would want to have my life in place by the time I am 40 and my kids are older...
I don't mean perfect.
I just mean, well adjusted and settled....stable and established.
Happy and fulfilled.

I know.
Trust me, I know how Blessed I am.
I have TWO amazing children.
I have an awesome Husband. I have a great family and a good job.
What else do you want Connie?
You can't have the world...I know this.
I don't want to loose myself because I am constantly seeking better....
I simply want life to be LIFE but better... Ha.

No pues no quieres nada!

Yo se que....el que quiere azul celeste que le cueste...
but how much is it ?
Cause I am more than sure that I have paid it in full and then some!
Ha.

Or maybe not but it sure does feel like it....

Officially. Fat.

NO JOKE. 

In May I lost about 8 or 9 pounds and OH.BOY.TRUST.ME. Have I found them!

I know that I say this a lot but tonight as I stuff my face with Ben & Jerry's Chocolate Fudge Brownie and read about Clean Diets and look at pictures of slim beautiful 20-something year olds...I told myself.

"THIS IS IT."

I can't continue down this path of body-self-destruction. It's unhealthy and honestly I feel uncomfortable.

The excuse that I work 12 hours a day, have two toddlers and a ton of clothes to wash; just don't fly anymore around here!

I need to get my Big Momma Booty in shape! Pronto!!
  
Good-bye Chocolate Fudge Brownie. I will catch you on the flip side and when you see me again, which you won't for a really, really long time, I will be looking good! Now take that and double fudge it!

Ok. A bit dramatic. But, you get the point!

I just know I can do it. My prayers have not been where they should be and I am going to take this time to get back on track! Focus has been lost and time is a wasting!!!!!

Join me if you will and let me know what your biggest weight loss GOAL is for the rest of the year!

Share your diets or exercising tips here!

{G.N.O.} ♥

Last Friday night was a special night. I attended the annual KSBJ G.N.O. {Girls Night Out!}. A great night to head out with girlfriends in the Houston area to praise, worship and pray. To be changed. To be Blessed. It's my second time going..and let me just say, it's getting better as the years grow on me.

This year I went with a girlfriend who I grew up with, Yvonne, we stopped seeing each other from about the ages of 13/14  until we were about 26/27 years old. Yes. A long gap but when we saw each other as adults it was as if our childhood  hadn't passed us by. We were now; Wives, Momma's or future Momma's, and life had taught us a thing or two. God was right in bringing us back together as adults; we appreciate each other, accept one another and bring new light into each other lives. Who knows what would have happened had we stayed friends during our teenage years but I do know that as adults, I don't plan on letting the years gap, ever again.

We went to dinner, caught up on our week and arrived at Grace Community Church,  it's an amazing and personal space set up perfectly for praise and worship. A prayer at the beginning of the show. Then our seats... for the next almost 3 hours God was in that room and in my heart as a renewal of my Faith and Love for Him!

A great comedian; Anita Renfroe, brought light to our everyday and to the night ahead. If you've never seen her in person, I totally suggest you do. HILARIOUS. She is a Momma filled with wisdom and faith. She knows that in order to make it through this life we must laugh at ourselves everyday! She does the best job at teaching us that every life "drama" filled situation as a Momma and Wife are funny! My Husband saw THIS clip and was sold!

"Difficulty is inevitable. Drama is a choice."

Our speaker, one of my most abso-favorite Blogger/Speaker/Writer/Proverbs 31 Woman; Lysa TerKeurst !
She is the smallest, most soft spoken but powerfully spoken woman. She is so real, and funny. Her family is no different from anyone else.  She is no different than any other Momma, other than the fact that she is a super amazingly published author. Her soft words of Momma wisdom filled with peace, faith and love just filled every space in my heart with joy and true hope. I was at peace to know that amidst the messes of our lives, and the chaos of our homes, the loud children and hustle and bustle of every day life; there is silence in Jesus. Silence that allows us to hear Him and His love for us. No matter what we have been through, where we think we will go, God loves us all the same. His Love is real. His Love is pure. Only His Love can save us from despair. Only His Love can change us from the inside out. Only with His Love can we Love others.... She stated that her and her Husband gave a gift to Jesus from their hearts; they promised that for 365 days they would reach out to a live person and give them a little bit of their time, a little bit of their money, and/or a little bit of their encouragement; in order to touch 365 lives whom God knew they would be a Blessing to. I thought that was amazing. I want to be that person who gives time, money and encouragement. God has filled me with his passion and I know I have the Love to share it with anyone who needs it.

Matthew 5:8

New International Version (NIV)

⁸ Blessed are the pure in heart,
   for they will see God.

Finally, a singer a tiny woman with a powerhouse voice! Natalie Grant. You can't help but jump out of your seat and lift your soul in praise! She is also a Momma , her compassion and kind heart shines through her voice and performances. God has definitely given her an amazing talent. We are Blessed, that she decided to share her voice... she is amazing.... She reminded us that Jesus is Alive! ......and it is well with my soul....

The night was an encouraging, heart lifting and  faith empowering one. That will definitely allow this year to be my year of CHANGE!

God doesn't make mistakes...and that night...Yvonne and I were more than meant to be there... MORE THAN MEANT TO BE THERE.

I hope that everyone is given the opportunity to experience a night like I had on Friday...cause I know that God is working...working lots. 

Good night everyone. Blessed night everyone.

{Remedios}

And no, she ain't  my Tia. Just sayin'...

But, she is my Momma.

Ha.

Growing up my Momma and Grad-Ma {my Momma's mom} both had their share of ideas of things and rituals that would make us feel better. Old wives tales if you will about what not to do when you're sick and what you should do to get better. Like, not walking without socks on a cold floor cause it makes colic worse. Or popping your back with aciete de recino and then taking a tea spoon of it as a remedy to make constipation better. Or drinking a mixture of fresh herbal teas for various aches and pains. Even wearing an "ojo de venado" for el mal de ojo, when you are a baby. Or the very popular limpia con el huevo. Yes. My Momma and Grand-Ma both had deep belief in remedios caseros... as we grew older we became a bit more skeptic and kept only those "rituals" which we "thought" helped or soothed....

I thinks it's a cultural tradition that comes from various areas of beliefs; including religious and just everyday wisdom from one Nana to the next... 

Hay tantos remedios caseros {some really work, I think!}

These are some that come to mind when I think of remedios...

• Miel con limon para la garganta.

• Te de Manzanilla para los colicos. {I just love all kinds of teas!}

• and warm Savila for various skin issues.{They sell this stuff by the jug so it much work!}

More recently my Momma has been trying to treat my current Kidney condition con agua de uso, which is basically a variety of "leaves" boiled in a pot of water. I joke and tell my Momma  that I know she got them from her morning walk off people's lawns but I have faith in her and her mixutres..I drink them and pray to God that I can be healed soon. Inside and out. I need it.

I know this type of remedios aren't "normal" to many but as a Mexican child of a Mexican Momma, I believe in them and their healing relief...My Momma always says... "si no te cura tampoco te hace daño..." but more times than not I feel better...

My agua de uso is composed of "cola de caballo" and "palo azul" so far...I feel better... I think Momma's just have that extra touch that make everything better...

What about you? Do you believe in remedios caseros, if so...what are some of your favs?

{T.GOD.I.F} ♥

No really, THANK GOD.

Turning 30 has really, I mean REALLY messed with my emotions {hormones} !!

“Instead, there must be a spiritual renewal of your thoughts and attitudes.” (Ephesians 4:23 NLT)

I mean. I cry. I dwell. I wallow. I blah, all over my Besties! Seriously. Seriously, Momma? Get a grip! Life is NOT that serious. It's. not. that. serious. it's not.

“You must put on your new nature because you are a new person, created in God's likeness—righteous, holy, and true.” (Ephesians 4:24)

The last few weeks I've had this line from the movie Tangled in my head {Not cause we've seen it about a billion times in the last 4 months but yeah...}: "You know, I can't help but notice you seem a little at war with yourself here.." It's that scene when she leaves the tower to venture out, to see her "life begin"...I guess that's where I am at right now.

 “For God is working in you, giving you the desire to obey him and the power to do what pleases him” (Philippians 2:13 NLT).

As a new Momma of Dos and Wife to a super busy Student and Intern...it just seems like "my" life has not yet begun...I know I am a super BUSY "OTHCWMWB" but some days..I still want more.

Risk your life and get more than you ever dreamed of. Play it safe and end up holding the bag. Luke 19:26 (MSG)

Eeek. I know. MORE. I hate the rut of want...but I think it's more the desire to serve!

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and He will make your paths straight.” (Psalm 3:5-6 NIV)

I know God is working. His work is fruitful. I trust in Him. LOTS!

Psalm 42:11 “Oh, my soul, don't be discouraged. Don't be upset. Expect God to act!” (TLB).

BTW. I don't think a Blog post can ever be too scripture heavy....

Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." New International Version (NIV)

{Acceptance}

~Praise & Worship Wednesday~

July was a very, very, VERY emotional month for my family. {We lost my Tia Lola to a long time battle with Lung Disease early on in the month....it hasn't been easy....she lived in Detroit....It's been a ride..}

Personally, I have been struggling on a "professional" level. As a young girl it was emphasized that as a woman born to Mexican parents in the United States, the ONLY way I would EVER "make anything of myself" was if I received an education. The fact that you finished High School in my time was a HUGE deal. So, If I could graduate College...I'd be some type of a Hero to my family. The chosen ONE. To progress and bring riches to my family here and abroad. {No joke.}

Having a College degree was glamorized. I thought I would be one of the Sex in the City girls only a bit smarter and hopefully with some morals. {Ha. Don't get me wrong, I am total fan but you know what I mean.} I thought that after 4 years of school I would have the big house, with the fancy car and carry my suitcase in to work every morning, dressed in a different color pant suits every day of the week.

Boy. Was. I. EVER. SO. Wrong.

These days I don't care about what I wear or where I live or drive. I simply want to be happy in the place that I spend 8 hours a day in. And, I want to be assured that after 5 years of college {don't judge} receiving my degree WAS the smart thing to do! I want to be grateful and thankful that I can sit in an air conditioned office every day and love what I do for a living. Know that I matter, no matter what, feel like I make a difference in those people who I come in contact with on a day to day basis.

I've loved my work in the past; I worked at Texas Children's for 7 years and helping the Hispanic community came easy and was very fulfilling. Then I moved on to the Worksource and I had the same experience and was even taken into account by management. Then a "better" opportunity came along and things were amazing. Now, it's not the same... I must move forward and life must go on for me....

But, like many in this economy, I am suffering... and it makes me miserable to know that I am just here. Stuck. Not really making a difference in my community. The way I know I can!

But, you know what? I know who I have and what my heart is filled with!

I have Jesus in my life and joy in my heart!

This month has been difficult but as August begins God is slowly showing me His light and His presence once more in my 30 years....slowly but surely. I keep the Faith.

Just this weekend. Saturday actually as I busily helped my Husband complete his presentation on the DREAM Act {Which by the way went excellent!}..God spoke to me...In my most favorite way...Music.

My absolute favorite station here in Houston is KSBJ. I love it. Love it. Love it.

Here is WHAT God said to me:

"Oh, don't hang your head
It's gonna end
God's {I am} right there
Even if it's hard to see Him {me}
I promise you that He {I} still cares
When the waves are taking you under
Hold on just a little bit longer
He {I} knows that this is gonna make you stronger, stronger
The pain ain't gonna last forever
And things can only get better"~[Mandisa]
Be strong in the Lord and,
Never give up hope,
You're going to do great things,
I already know,
God's {I have} got His {my} hand on you so,
Don't live life in fear,
Forgive and forget,
But don't forget why you're here,
Take your time and pray,"~[Sidewalk Prophets]
And while I may not know you I bet I know you
Wonder sometimes does it matter at all
Well let me remind you it all matters just as long as you
Do everything you do to the glory of the One who made you
Cause {I}He made you!
... do every little thing that you do to bring a smile to {My}His face
And tell the story of grace with every move that you make
And every little thing you do.."~[Steven Curtis Chapman]
"wherever you are--breathe out and breathe in again

And know that life is hard but it's worth the breathing
Oh, listen to me now for love, oh, love is waiting for You just to say
Here come better days
And here come better days
Better days and a better place I know
...wait, oh wait, For grace has found me and shaken up my soul
And grace will follow wherever you will go
Listen to me now for grace, oh grace is calling just for You to say
Green grass and I am laying in the sunlight of You
And the wind is moving through the trees ushering You
And the better days You bring--and better places found"~[Robbie Seay Band]

I loved it. And felt so Blessed.
 
I know it's difficult right now and I don't see the light....but God is with me..I have grace and peace and YES..better days will come...and they will stay with me forever..in Victory!
 
Blessed day readers.
 

The Adjustment Bureau {Movie Review} Double Post Monday

{I don't think I have done this lately, or really more than a couple of times....BTW, I don't get ANY type of compensation for doing this...It's just for fun!}

SO!

Matt Damon.

NUFF'SAID!

Ha. But no, really!

And with his wife...

I mean...seriously...AH-MAY-ZING!

Ok, done now. 

What movie?

Oh yes, yes. {Ha. Ha.}

This movie was more than amazing. And, not just cause of the above mentioned.

This movie. This movie.

Wow.

Purpose, Fate, Free will.

God, Angels..and did I mention Matt Damon?

My Husband and I sat down after a LONG week...a LONG week...A crazy couple of days and exhausted as an understatement and said....we may just fall asleep. Less than half way through the movie we were hooked and by the end of the movie. We wanted more!

I am not even kidding. Ricardo wanted to know what others thought. If I thought the Catholic church would approve.

This movie just affirmed our FAITH in Christ and HIS PLAN and PURPOSE for us to the HUNDREDTH power!

Without spoiling the movie...

We thought it was a Government/Mystery/Thriller... but OH.BOY. Were we wrong. It's a GOD/Divine Purpose/Faith-seeking/THRILLER! {It does have some politics involved but it just affirms the movie as a whole!}

The movie discusses Angels and God's plan for our lives...and the role that fate and free will plays in it all.

I loved it.

My Husband loved it.

We needed it.

It just reminded us that we ARE here because of HIM. That the choices we make will affect the outcome of our lives BUT that when we make GOOD choices those that God tugs at our hearts with constantly, then we can change the course of our plan but ultimately HIS plan is working and moving right along!

It's a romantic LOVE story.

Definitely not for children, as it has strong language and some sexual content...

But, for mature, Faith-seeking adults..I think a TOTAL MUST!!!!

I totally. {We totally} Give it an:

A++ For just being truly amazing!

~Praise and Worship Wednesdays~

Today a man let me in front of him in traffic....

I couldn't help but notice his shiny silver Range Rover....

He was a well dressed man...with nice sunglasses, probably pricey....

He seemed to have a good job; with what his appearance was and the nice SUV he was driving....

But still...I couldn't help but think..."I wonder what problems he has?" {Not in a sarcastic way but in a truthful way....}

Just because he seems to have an awesome life...doesn't mean he does....

No todo es lo que parece.... {Not everything is what it appears}

Many of us hide our deepest sorrows and fears behind expensive shades and fancy cars... but truth is...

We all have sorrows... we all have problems....we all have pain....

Our struggles may not be the same..but they are there none the less....

My devotional today read like this:

New mercies every morning,
Grace for every day,
New hope for every trial,
And courage all the way.~McVeigh

This is true... Courage all the way....

This man...like myself... walked out of his house this morning despite the sorrows, looking very stylish and MOVED forward... he like many of us is going through this journey of life.... WITH COURAGE.

The courage it takes to move ON....to MOVE forward!

I hope you too will move forward today filled with courage.....

Psalm 30:5

    For his anger lasts only a moment,

but his favor lasts a lifetime!


Weeping may last through the night,


but joy comes with the morning.

It's back....{Momma con Fe}

Visit my Momma of Faith Blog for some good music: 

MOMMA CON FE

[30 of FAITH]

This one took me a minute.

I couldn't find my older Bible:

30 Bible Verses that have gotten me through my 30 years (Really more so the last 6 years).....

1. Philippians 4:13

2. Psalm 23

3. Psalm 27

4. 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 {Read at my wedding...}
5. Proverbs 31 { My inspiration}
6. Lucas 1:39-45

7. Matthew 9:29-30
8. Juan 4:43-54
9. Luke 15:11-32
10. Marcos 9:24
11.John 3:16
12.Genesis 18: 1-10 {Gave me hope while trying to have children}
13. Psalm 1
14. Psalm 3
15. Psalm 6: 1-3
16. Psalm 22
17. Psalm 31
18. Salmo 84
19. Psalm 90
20. Psalm 91
21.Psalm 103
22. Psalm 104
23.Psalm 131
24.Psalm 139
25. Psalm 143
26. Psalm 144:4,6,8
27. Psalm 145:8,14
28. Salmo 55:11
29. Matthew 25:31-46
30. Luke 10: 38-42 {Side notes: We worry and do all the wrong things. The one right way is the Lord's way. Don't worry about petty things when he is teaching you LOVE, LIFE and HONESTY.}

I have so many others tagged and so many notes, but they are VERY personal.

During my time with my old Bible, 6 years ago, I was  going through a lot with my parents.

Their marriage was in GREAT despair. Hence my obsession with Psalms {and with having a Faith-filled family of my own}.

Psalms, was my favorite book during this time. 

I pleaded and cried out for help almost every night since I was 13. It wasn't until I was 24 that God came into my life and that He showed me that if I cried out to HIM...nothing was impossible and everything was possible.

At 24 I truly came to Christ and my life has changed very much since then. Not perfect but just right. I've learned many lessons and life has definitely hit me hard, but I have always managed to wear a smile. Not because of me, but because of God. He has guided me and I continue to follow Him closely. Yes, I still making mistakes but learning each day how to be a better me.

A little hint when reading the Bible, that I learned at 24:

You set a time and place a side for you and Jesus to talk. How?

Just like you would with an old friend who you want to catch up with. You find the right location, where no one can bother you and where you can give that friend your undivided attention. You make sure it's comfortable and quiet. You set up a candle that will remind you of the constant flame that Jesus is within your heart. Then you start your conversation by saying; "Jesus, I am here, ONLY for You. To listen and give you my undivided attention. I am yours. Please give me peace and understanding so that Your Word can fill my heart and every empty space in my soul." Then you start reading your favorite verse...BUT slowly. Calmly. Taking in EVERY word. Listening to God. Really capturing His unique message for you. Once you are done reading, you sit. Close your eyes and listen to Him, for Him. His Word will fill your life with that light and that wholeness that NOTHING and NO-ONE else can give you. 

It's an amazing feeling. 

I hope you can relish in this one day.

This is my new Bible, which has started my Momma journey with me: 

What brought me here?

Goodness it must be this whole turning 30 thing..I didn't think I would be so reflective about the whole turning 30 thing!


But, I guess I am.

To me the number is not important..it's more about my experiences, the lessons learned, and my family memories (Good or Bad).


What brought me here?

...to this place... this place where I sit and write. Think and imagine.


Well first off a slower paced job than I am used to. Once in this job and on my down time, I found Heather. The, in my eyes, Queen of Blogs! I loved her. I wanted to be like her. I wanted to take pictures like her. I wanted to write like her. I want to be funny and carefree like her. I wanted to be open and daring like her. I wanted to be Heather Armstrong. But, I knew that wasn't gonna happen. I was and am ME.


So, I did the next best thing..I started Blogging....soon the ideas and my imagination and a new love for writing and expressing came to be. I am still not at all good at it but I try and I move forward.


My Blog was this..and that....and blah...and AHHHHH....and then it was...Oh.M.Geeeee. and things changed.


I moved into this. And a new phase emerged.

And life...went on....goes on and everything is different now....

But, I am happy, learning and seeking.

Turning 30 will be great and what brought me here is not as important as loving where I am now! {And I do. No matter what!}